By today’s standards, it used to take quite a while before a virus was able to infect a computer and slow down the system.  The best anti virus protection software of the time was typically able to identify and eradicate viruses before they caused too much damage.

However, with the widespread use of the internet (coupled with the more sophisticated techniques used by hackers to infiltrate computer security systems ), the web has provided a conduit by which viruses can now move from host to host swiftly.   These conduits includes, email attachments, peer-to-peer file sharing, instant messaging, software downloads and more recently, social networking sites.  Moreover, computer viruses can attack through multiple entry points, spread inconspicuously, and take full advantage of weak areas within a system or program.

Thankfully, the advancement of some of the best anti virus protection software available on the market has kept pace with current virus threats.   Patently, having anti virus software is essential in order to for a computer to fend off viruses and other malicious programs.   The best anti virus solution should contain features that have the capability to protect against a virus entering a computer through email, web browsers, file servers and desktops.  Additionally, these programs should offer a simple enough interface that can allow you configure and update the software with minimal hassle.

As a vigilant computer user, use the following simple tips to protect against the threat of a virus:

Are you confident that you have protected all aspects of your computer system? Consider a more comprehensive security solution. should  include features such as a firewall, content filtering, and intrusion detection.  This fuller feature set will make it more difficult for viruses and other threats to penetrate your system.

Because new viruses found and identified every day, it’s important that you regularly update your anti virus software.  Familiarize yourself with the software’s real-time scan feature and configure it to start automatically each time you start your computer.  This will protect your system by  automatically checking your computer each time it’s powered up.

Exercise caution when opening Word, Excel or other files of unknown sources, particularly if they were received during an online chat or as an attachment to an email. Carry out regular backups in case your system is corrupted. It may be the only way to recover your data if infected.

There are many good anti virus programs available to consumers. Many programs provide trial versions which allow you to download the program and assess its suitability. VirusProtectionReports.com has researched some of the best anti virus protection software. Below is a summary of some of the programs which have overall had good customer feedback in terms of the level of protection, ease of use, and customer service. Fuller product reports are available on each of them and others.

BitDefender Antivirus 2009 provides anti virus protection, as well as full email protection and heuristics in a virtual environment.  This provides a new security layer that keeps the operating system safe from unknown viruses by detecting malicious pieces of code for which signatures have not been released yet.  Also there’s a gamer mode which allows you to temporarily modify BitDefender’s settings so as to minimize your system resource consumption when playing.

Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2009 is simple to install and use. It allows updates as frequently as every hour while promising not to disrupt your computer. The program also offers a good email protection feature and round-the-clock technical support.