Antivirus software is computer anti virus protection software
used for identification and removal
of computer viruses
, as well as many other types of harmful computer software, collectively referred to as ‘malware’
. Modern antivirus protection can shield computer systems against a wide range of malware
, including spyware
, and Trojans
Learn more about BullGuard virus removal tool.
What is a virus?
The word virus is often used as a common term for all malicious programmes, but technically a virus is a program or code that attaches itself to a legitimate, executable piece of software, and then reproduces itself when that program is run.
Keep your computer free from viruses and spyware.
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How does a virus spread?
Viruses spread by reproducing and inserting themselves into programs, documents, or e-mail attachments. They can be transmitted through e-mails or downloaded files and they can be present on CDs, DVDs, USB-drives and any other sort of digital media.
A virus normally requires action to successfully infect a victim.
What does antivirus software actually do?
Antivirus programs scan disk and memory looking for telltale signs of viruses – so-called ‘signatures’.
There are two basic kinds of scans:
‘Real-time scans’ scan files as you use them or as they are loaded on to your computer.
‘On-demand scans’ scan your entire computer whenever you consider it necessary or at specific scheduled intervals. It is advised that you run on demand scans at least once every two weeks to maintain a safe computer system environment.
Learn more about how to scan your computer with BullGuard Internet Security
Virus protection: What can you do?
Always keep your security software active and updated
Because new viruses are released every day, there's always a chance that your computer will be infected by a virus that your anti virus software does not yet "know" about. That’s why BullGuard updates itself every two hours while you are connected to the Internet, making sure you’re perfectly safe online.
Always keep all your other software updated
Because viruses often propagate by exploiting flaws in operating systems or commonly used programs, you need to keep your computer's operating system and other software updated. Whenever possible, configure your computer to download and install critical updates automatically. Otherwise, check for software updates regularly.
Avoid installing spyware and other software that may open backdoors which can be exploited
Only use e-mail services that scan messages for viruses
Deal with e-mail carefully
Viruses are often propagated via e-mail attachments. Avoid opening attachments unless you are reasonably sure the e-mail is legitimate
More about the antivirus trial download
Read our articles on computer viruses and antivirus software:
How a virus works
What is a worm?
What are IM attacks?
What is a drive-by download?
What is ransomware?
What is a rootkit?
What are zero-day attacks?
What is spam?