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How can I tell if i have a computer virus?

On a daily basis, there are new viruses and threats launched to attack systems worldwide.  Here are a couple of items to consider.  If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, your computer might have a virus.

So here are some clear signs if you have a computer virus?

  • Is your computer running slow? Viruses tend to slow computer performance.  There can be other reasons for slow performance including a hard disk requiring defragmentation, lack of memory or spyware/ad ware.
  • Unexpected messages or programs starting automatically? Viruses can cause damage to Windows and/or some of your programs. The results of this damage might include messages appearing unexpectedly, programs starting or closing automatically, or Windows shutting down suddenly.
  • Is computer working overtime? An email virus works by sending many copies of itself by e‑mail. One indicator of this is your workstation working overtime even when you are not using it. These are not always symptoms of a computer virus, but when combined with other problems, can indicate a virus infection.

To check for your workstation for viruses, scan your computer with an antivirus program. New viruses appear every day, so keeping your antivirus program updated is important.

 

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IT Security IT Solutions Managed IT Services

How do I protect my computer from viruses?

With all the recent threats including the Heartbleed virus, protecting your computer from viruses and other threats is not difficult however you have to be diligent.  Below are four simple steps to protect your computer from unwanted viruses or threats.

So how do I protect my computer from viruses?

Antivirus. Install an antivirus program and keep it up to date.  Antivirus programs scan for viruses trying to get into your e‑mail, operating system, or files.  Viruses appear daily, so ensure you are running the latest antivirus as most antivirus programs are sold with annual subscriptions, which can be renewed as needed.

Attachments. Do not open e‑mail attachments from unknown senders or suspicious attachments.  Many viruses are attached to e‑mail messages and will spread as soon as you open the e‑mail attachment.  Rule of thumb is not to open any attachment unless it is something you are expecting.  

Updates. As you may all know, Windows XP is no longer supported by Microsoft.  It is extremely important that you keep Windows updated.  Microsoft releases updates to protect your computer.  These updates can help prevent viruses and other computer attacks by closing possible security holes. Make sure that Windows receives these updates by turning on Windows automatic updating.

Firewall. Firewalls are your protection from the outside world.  It does not matter if it is a hardware or software firewall, they can all help alert you of suspicious activity if a virus or worm attempts to connect to your computer. It can also block viruses, worms, and hackers from attempting to download potentially harmful programs to your computer.

 

365 iT SOLUTIONS is a leading IT consulting firm in Toronto. We provide industry leading Managed IT ServicesIT Support ServicesIT Outsourcing ServicesTech Support Services and Cloud Services.

Take advantage of our Complimentary Network and Security Assessment by 365itSolutions.com

Please visit on Google+LinkedInFacebookTwitter and YouTube.

Welcome to Worry-Free iT!