Have you witnessed the destruction a virus can have on your computer? Were all your pictures and files completely destroyed? Or maybe you have heard the horror stories and are worried this might happen to you? To prevent a computer virus infecting your machine, it’s a wise idea to install antivirus software and know that you are protected.

The aftermath of a computer virus can be devastating. They have the potential to destroy everything on your computer. Consider all your music, photos and private information erased. However, you have the option to protect yourself from this by using comprehensive antivirus software and backing up your files onto an external drive.

Once a virus finds its way into your computer, it has the ability to drain your memory, delete files, corrupt programs and execute random text. Most viruses result in your computer crashing or other kinds of unpredictable actions, which usually result in the loss of data.

Not protecting your computer will only put you in an unfavourable position. As computers become more sophisticated, so do the viruses that infect them. Viruses are becoming harder to detect and weaselling their way into innocent machines.

In order to better protect yourself it's worth understanding what a virus entails; computer programmes that have the capacity to multiply and infect a person’s computer. Often, malicious organisations or people create such programs.

How does your computer get a virus? Well, your machine can be infected through different mediums such the Internet, a CD, DVD or USB drive.

The clever, if very irritating, thing about viruses is that they have the ability to hide within your computer. Usually, these kinds of viruses are triggered when the infected application is launched and they begin to replicate.

However, there are many different kinds of viruses. Some become activated when the infected programme is running and others can remain active in your computer’s memory until you shut down your machine.

In technical terms, viruses are often referred to as ‘malware’, since they are a type of software that invades a person’s computer without the owner’s consent.

Many confuse viruses with other types of malware such as worms and Trojan horses. These types of software differ to a virus because of their behaviour. A worm weakens the security on a computer. Trojan horses appear to be harmless programs but end up doing damage to your machine sooner rather than later.

The good news is that there are many different kinds of free antivirus software online available to download. With antivirus software installed, you won’t have to worry about encountering any viruses.

Antivirus software is used to prevent, recognise and remove any kind of malware that may be targeting your system. This becomes a defence system for your computer when it comes in contact with malware.

Most antivirus software runs by conducting a scan of your machine on a given schedule. If the software finds something suspicious, then it will send the file into quarantine where it can be terminated. This way, the malicious file doesn’t get the chance to find its way into your computer’s system.

Antivirus software can also provide automated updates, Internet and network security, email protection and password protection.

If you aren’t sure what type of software to get, research which kind of antivirus protection is best for your computer. Many free services offered have a whole range of protection. This includes features like scanning protection and Internet security.

Downloading antivirus software is simple to do. First, find the kind of software that your system requires and an online service that offers it. The service you choose will always prompt you through the download until completion.

The best part about antivirus software is that you can get it for any kind of computer system. Therefore, the same applies to protecting your mobile phone as it is essentially a small operating system that you can acquire mobile antivirus software for.

Some are surprised to learn that viruses can affect your mobile. However, since mobiles are like mini computer systems, viruses have been designed to invade them as well. Because your phone is something you use so often, it’s important to protect it from any malicious software.

Mobile antivirus software will often protect your phone from data leakage due to the loss or theft of your handset, protection against malware and network attacks and screening for unwanted calls.

The fact is that you use your computer and mobile phone on a daily basis. We heavily rely on these communication tools and if they were to be harmed it could be disastrous.

Instead of remaining complacent, you should consider installing antivirus software. This will protect you in the event that your operating system comes in contact with any type of malware.

If you happen to get a virus, then don’t panic! Instead, try to identify the malware that has invaded your computer. Try and note the name of the virus, which may pop up in an alert you received or a suspicious website.

Usually, antivirus companies’ websites will provide further information about the virus your computer encountered. With information found online, it is easy to remove the virus from your system. Sometimes, it’s as easy as downloading a program and running it on your machine.

However, just as you can download antivirus software, its important to remain informed about potential threats. Many professional organisations issue virus warnings based on actual and current virus activity. Subscribing to such services will help make you more aware of what is out there.

Finally, the worst thing you can do is warning others about potential viruses. Sending others messages about viruses will only spread fear when this is unnecessary. Instead, you can focus on the safety of your own computer. You can take steps to avoid being a danger to others as well.

Protecting your computer from malware is vital since many viruses are inevitable. Consider getting free antivirus software so you don’t have to deal with the harmful effects a virus can have on your computer.