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Home / How to Install Antivirus Software in Windows 7

How to Install Antivirus Software in Windows 7

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Viruses and malware can cripple your computer and destroy your files. Antivirus programs are designed to find and intercept viruses before they do any harm. An antivirus program is essential on a Windows PC, and can be very useful for Mac and Linux users as well. Check out this guide for whichever operating system you use.

  1. 1

    Understand the need for an antivirus program. Windows is the most virus-prone operating system (OS) out of the three major OSes. It has the most users and the weakest built-in security. Antivirus programs will defend your computer from malware that comes through email, flash drives, downloads, websites and more.

  2. 2

    Acquire an antivirus program. There are several popular free options available that do a good job of protecting the average user. These programs are updated frequently with new virus definitions that recognize the latest threats.[1]

    • If you frequently deal with files or websites that are virus-infected, you may want to opt for more powerful paid protection. Paid antivirus programs are typically available for a yearly subscription fee.
    • When downloading free or paid antivirus programs, ensure that you are downloading from a trusted source. There are many programs out there that claim to be antivirus/antimalware but instead install malware themselves. Read reviews and download products from companies that have been around for a long time.[2]
    • Windows 10 and 8 have Windows Defender, which is a free anti-malware application provided by Microsoft. It's already built-in.

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  3. 3

    Install the antivirus program. Make sure that no other programs are running while you install the antivirus. You will most likely need to be connected to the internet to download additional files and updates.

    • Some free antivirus programs come packaged with toolbars for your web browser. These can add protection but also change your search options and bog down older computers. You have the opportunity to opt out of these changes during the installation process.

  4. 4

    Update the program. After the installation is complete, reboot your computer and update the program. The file that you downloaded is likely not the most up to date version, so you will need to connect to your antivirus program's servers and download the latest updates. Most antivirus programs allow you to right-click on the icon in the System Tray while it is running and click Update.

    • Update your definitions on a weekly basis. Most antivirus programs are set to automatically update. Double check the settings for your program to ensure that you are receiving the necessary updates.

  5. 5

    Scan your computer. Once you have the program installed and updated, it's time to scan your computer. This could take several hours, depending on the number of files being scanned and your computer's speed.

  6. 6

    Set a scan schedule. Antivirus programs are most effective when they are automated. Open your antivirus program's settings and look for the Schedule option. Try to schedule a time when your computer will be on but you won't be using it. Ideally you should be scanning once a week; scan more frequently if you deal with potentially infected files on a regular basis.

  7. 7

    Keep Windows updated. The best way to keep your computer protected is to always make sure that your copy of Windows is up to date. Microsoft releases security updates for Windows on a regular basis, fixing exploitable areas of Windows.

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  1. 1

    Understand the need for an antivirus program. Mac OS X has long been much more secure than Windows, due to the way that the system software has been designed. In the past, less people used Mac OS, which lead to fewer viruses being developed for Mac. While the population of Mac users has increased dramatically, it is still not as popular as Windows, which is where the majority of virus development happens.

    • The most important use for antivirus on Mac is stopping the spread of malware to other computers. Viruses are very easily spread through email, and while you may not get infected yourself, you can spread the virus to other computers that may not have the same protection as your Mac.

  2. 2

    Acquire an antivirus program. Because of the low chance of infection on your machine, there is little need to get a paid antivirus solution. Instead, download a free option that is designed from the ground up to work with Mac OS X.[3]

  3. 3

    Install and run the antivirus software. Because the risk of infection is low, you don't necessarily need to constantly scan your system. Instead, use your antivirus program to manually inspect suspicious files and emails.

  4. 4

    Update Mac OS X. Apple releases security patches on a regular basis to close any exploits that have been discovered. Keep your Mac up to date to ensure that your system is as secure as possible.

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  1. 1

    Understand the need for an antivirus program. Out of the three major OSes, Linux is the most secure when it comes to viruses. This is due to both the low population of users as well as the inherent security of the system software. Because applications are installed directly from the distribution, there is little chance of files being infected.

    • The most important use for antivirus on Linux is stopping the spread of malware to other computers. Viruses are very easily spread through email, and while you may not get infected yourself, you can spread the virus to other computers that may not have the same protection as your Linux machine.

  2. 2

    Acquire an antivirus program. Check with your repository to see what antivirus options are available for your Linux build. Most builds have antivirus programs available as freeware. These programs have been vetted by the Linux community and are designed to take minimal system resources.

  3. 3

    Install and run the antivirus software. Because the risk of infection is low, you don't necessarily need to constantly scan your system. Instead, use your antivirus program to manually inspect suspicious files and emails.

  4. 4

    Update your Linux build. Updating system software with Linux updates all of your program builds as well, eradicating any exploits that have been found. The process is mostly automated. Be sure to check your settings to ensure that your Linux installation is updating appropriately.

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Add New Question

  • Question

    Do Macs even get viruses?

    Gonzalo Martinez

    Gonzalo Martinez is the President of CleverTech, a tech repair business in San Jose, California founded in 2014. CleverTech LLC specializes in repairing Apple products. CleverTech pursues environmental responsibility by recycling aluminum, display assemblies, and the micro components on motherboards to reuse for future repairs. On average, they save 2 lbs - 3 lbs more electronic waste daily than the average computer repair store.

    Gonzalo Martinez

    Computer & Phone Repair Specialist

    Expert Answer

    While Windows tends to be more virus-prone, Apple computers can get viruses as well. Unfortunately, many anti-virus programs for Mac are actually viruses masquerading as anti-virus programs. Either way, do your research before downloading anything on your computer.

  • Question

    What's the best antivirus program for Mac?

    Gonzalo Martinez

    Gonzalo Martinez is the President of CleverTech, a tech repair business in San Jose, California founded in 2014. CleverTech LLC specializes in repairing Apple products. CleverTech pursues environmental responsibility by recycling aluminum, display assemblies, and the micro components on motherboards to reuse for future repairs. On average, they save 2 lbs - 3 lbs more electronic waste daily than the average computer repair store.

    Gonzalo Martinez

    Computer & Phone Repair Specialist

    Expert Answer

    I'm a big fan of AVAST. It's a lot less annoying and a lot less intrusive than some of the big names out there, like Norton or McAfee.

  • Question

    Do antiviruses do anything other than stop viruses?

    Gonzalo Martinez

    Gonzalo Martinez is the President of CleverTech, a tech repair business in San Jose, California founded in 2014. CleverTech LLC specializes in repairing Apple products. CleverTech pursues environmental responsibility by recycling aluminum, display assemblies, and the micro components on motherboards to reuse for future repairs. On average, they save 2 lbs - 3 lbs more electronic waste daily than the average computer repair store.

    Gonzalo Martinez

    Computer & Phone Repair Specialist

    Expert Answer

    Some of them will make it easier to navigate the web and block pop ups. In general, the main purpose of an antivirus program is to keep your computer safe, though.

  • Question

    Can I install Avast and Cloud 7 Antivirus together?

    Community Answer

    No, you cannot install two anti-malware programs on one system. When the same kind of the software is installed, they conflict with each other, and your system will freeze or stop functioning properly.

  • Question

    Do I need to remove a current expiring antivirus program before installing a new one?

    Community Answer

    You should, yes.

  • Question

    Does Cloud 7 Antivirus provide full-proof protection from virus attacks?

    mydissertationeditors 4

    mydissertationeditors 4

    Community Answer

    Yes, it does. Cloud 7 Antivirus software is upgraded with the latest technology. It detects and eliminates the viruses from your system and keeps it safe from malicious code and cyber attacks. It also alerts the user as soon it detects a virus in the system.

  • Question

    Can I download Linux even though Windows Defender is already on?

    Community Answer

    Yes, you can download it. When you download Linux as ISO files, Windows Defender will not detect it as a virus.

  • Question

    What anti virus do I need to download on my mobile phone?

    Community Answer

    Android doesn't require antivirus due to its inherent security features. Only install apps from play store and update your OS regularly. Many manufacturers such as Samsung, Xiaomi and Huawei include antivirus with their OS builds. Use them to keep your phone safe.

  • Question

    How do I install an antivirus in a cell phone and what would you recommend?

    Zhongli, Archon of Liyue (Aasim)

    Zhongli, Archon of Liyue (Aasim)

    Community Answer

    You can install an antivirus from your carrier. For example, if you have an iPhone or Android on AT&T, you can install AT&T Mobile Security to get protection against malware.

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About This Article

Article SummaryX

1. Reserch options on reliable websites.
2. Download the software.
3. Double-click the downloaded file.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install.
5. Update the application regularly.

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How to Install Antivirus Software in Windows 7

Source: https://www.wikihow.com/Install-an-Antivirus