How to Check for Viruses on Your Computer
Posted on February 25th, 2009 by Paul
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Computer viruses are thorns on every computer owner’s side. When these programs enter your computer, they mess up the settings, including the template files, then go on to corrupt the components of your hard drive. They are often embedded in conspicuous websites and emails from strangers, especially downloadable files. As a computer owner, you must scan your computer for viruses, occasionally.
Anti-Virus Program
The easiest way to seek and snag viruses is by using a powerful anti-virus. You can purchase the most efficient ones at any computer software store. Once installed, these programs scan all your files for viruses. A warning appears when a virus has been detected. At the push of a button, you can eliminate that virus through the software. The anti-virus will extract the malicious program and delete it from your computer’s memory.
In some cases, powerful viruses can’t be eliminated by the program. What you can do is trace the location of the virus using the anti-virus then manually delete it. The process may be tedious, but it is certainly better than letting the malicious program ruin your computer.
The Sudden Slowdown
One of the characteristics of a computer that has viruses is a sudden slowdown in the execution of commands. Some viruses attempt to take over the computer, so they try to override some of your commands and privileges. As a result, the computer has a hard time performing its assigned tasks. You should scan your computer with your anti-virus at the first hint of an unusual slowdown. It will probably catch one a virus and a handful of malware.
Your Computer Acting Weird
Powerful viruses can take control of your CPU a few moments after they enter. They can make your computer do strange things like the sudden appearance of images or sprites on your screen. At that stage, little can be done about the virus, unless you still have access to “System Restore” or your anti-virus (if it’s still not corrupted). You may have to reformat your computer, if worse comes to worst. Better backup your files to avoid a total disaster.
Beware of Stealthy Viruses
With the recent advancement of anti-viruses, thanks to healthy market competition, some viruses are made to creep silently into the computer system. They won’t do anything strange until the essential programs have been reached. Without warning, they will suddenly flush out your hard drive’s contents, relegating the anti-virus useless.
To avoid these fiends, you should develop a habit of scanning your computer with an updated anti-virus at least once a week. By then, you can either terminate them with the security program or extract them yourself.
Better to Be Safe than Sorry
Scanning for viruses, especially if you have lots of files, may take some time, but remember, it’s for the safety of your computer. Who knows, if the anti-virus catches a powerful virus, it may also save your job. Next up, read our guide to remove a virus from your computer.
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