How to Install Antivirus Software on an Already Infected PC

Viruses are invasive programs that attach themselves to other files (usually email), then copy themselves and spread through your computer. Viruses can slow down your computer and lock up applications. Your computer may shut down or restart on its own, or perform other unwanted tasks. Some types of viruses (like spyware and malware) are more dangerous. Hackers design these programs to cause damage, such as deleting files on your hard drive. Some compromise your privacy by tracking which websites you visit or stealing your passwords. You also may be flooded with ad pop-ups or redirected to unwanted websites. If your computer is slowing down or performing erratically, it is already infected. You need to know some ways to fix the problem fast.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Research your options online. Follow the link in Resources to reviews of hundreds of free and commercial antivirus software programs. This site uses a five-star system to grade the latest version of each program. It also lists that total number of user downloads per program, and has a link that lets you immediately download the software you want.

2. If you are choosing free software, click on the link provided. Select "Run" to start the download and follow the rest of the instructions. Fill out the optional registration information and finish the installation process. This should take less than 3 minutes.

3. If you have decided to buy an antivirus software package, click on the link provided. You will be given the option to pay either through PayPal or with a credit card. You will receive a confirmation email at the address you listed in the billing information.

4. Follow the downloading instructions in Step 2.

5. If you buy an antivirus software package from a store, insert the CD and follow the disc's downloading instructions.

6. Watch for the antivirus software to place a shortcut icon on your desktop. Double-click to open it and familiarize yourself with the program's interface.

7. Look for a "Start scan" feature on the screen; click it to begin the procedure. A full system scan can take an hour or more. After the scan, the antivirus software creates a report listing the number of files and programs scanned, how many were infected, what type of viruses were found and what you need to do about it. Most programs automatically quarantine or delete the offenders. Occasionally, you will be alerted to complete an action.

8. Set up your new antivirus software to perform a weekly scan, preferably at night or while you are away.

Tips & Warnings

• Commercial antivirus software subscriptions expire after 12 months. Remember to renew the subscription to stay protected. Copy your files on CDs or a flash drive after the scan. (You should back up your files on a regular basis, preferably weekly.)
• Do not open email attachments from people you do not know. This is how many viruses attack a computer.

Resources

• Learn the effectiveness of free and commercial antivirus software programs
• Virus troubleshooting page

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on 10/26/2009 Great information I need! we haven't been able to download any anti-virus programs for some reason. Our McAfee got deleted and now our computer is totally infected and running on safe mode. I will try this and hopefully it will help me. Thanks