Antivirus solutions can be implemented on individual computer systems and/or at the network level. Large business networks have Network Gateways that are able to detect viruses before they enter the internal network, but it is still a good idea to have Antivirus installed on the workstations as well. Gateway devices may block viruses attempting entry from the Internet, but they do not prevent them from infecting your network if they get in via an infected floppy disk or CD brought in from an outside source.
Antivirus programs currently on the market are signature-based virus recognition programs and include Heuristic scanning as well (algorithms which allow detection of yet unknown viruses). This type of Antivirus detection requires signature files for each new virus detected. This is why it is so important to keep your virus definitions up to date. Antivirus programs have an "Automatic Update" feature that will check for any virus definition updates and install them automatically to ensure your system has the most up to date protection.
NOTES:
Antivirus software is not a guarantee that your computer is protected from virus infection.
Once a new virus is released on the Internet there is a window in which systems may not be protected.
Antivirus vendors must decompile the virus code and create a new signature file which is released in an update.
Your system is not protected until you have downloaded and installed the updated signature file.
Many new viruses are just variants of existing viruses and are often recognized by existing antivirus signatures.
Some viruses are polymorphic in nature (Able to rewrite their code in order to avoid detection).
Any antivirus program implemented should be accompanied by an "acceptable practices security policy" especially in a business environment .
Do not open emails or attachments from unknown sources.
Always scan unsecured removable media (Floppies, Recordable CD's, Flash drives) before use.
Do not download programs that are not well known or certified as safe. (File sharing programs and many free programs available on the Internet are sources for Virus and Spyware infections.)
Do not accept files from unknown sources.
Ensure you have adequate Antivirus and AntiSpyware installed and it is kept up to date.
Basic Virus Types:
Worm: Self replicating virus that usually spreads through network shares or via email.
Trojan Horse: A program designed to give hackers access and control over a remote computer without the knowledge of legitimate users.
Features to look for in antivirus software:
Automatic virus definition update capability.
Heuristic scan option (uses advanced algorithms which allow detection of yet unknown viruses)
"Real time" virus scanning. (scans files opened or downloaded from the Internet, and Email.)
Long term update capabilities (Most retail versions provide you with free virus definition and program updates for one year.)
Note that most OEM versions (OEM versions generally come bundled with a new computer system) only provide you with a limited update license, (usually 30 to 90 days), after which you have to sign up for further updates for a fee.
Be sure the antivirus software you obtain is compatible with your particular operating system.
Antivirus Vendors
NOD32 (Recommended by Cybertex)
NOD32 is an excellent antivirus program that provides complete monitoring of your system for the best protection from infection.
NOD32 works in the background and has very little impact on system resources.
AVG Antivirus Software Free Version (Also recommended by Cybertex this antivirus package is free for personal use.)
This antivirus program is free for personal use.
Business users are required to purchase a valid license.
AVG Antivirus Software Professional Trial Version (Business users can Download a trial version good for 30 days.)
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Revised:
March 20, 2008