How do you protect your computer? | Bloggers Lair | Yakezie Forums

In June, I had to pay almost $300 to get a virus off my computer.  Now, I am running into problems again, and I really don't want to pay out another $300.  How do you protect your computer from viruses, etc.?  What programs would you recommend?

Right now I am using the free  versions of Malware Bytes and AVG.  I keep running the scans, and it keeps detecting problems.  Last night it was 7 files infected, this morning it was 2.  I have a feeling I am not getting rid of everything.

If you have Comcast, I think they give you the McFee virus scan for free, honestly I backup everything to a flash drive or something and then if I get a virus I can't control…re-format the drive and all fixed.

I know with Windows XP (and I'm assuming with Vista and 7 there is a way as well), you can boot into safe mode, which loads the operating system into a minimal state.  Run the same programs under safe mode and it might do a better job.  The thought is that under a normal load, some of the items are 'in use' and can't be properly scanned, but you'll have a better chance of it getting cleaned under safe mode.  It's not foolproof but it definitely helps. 

Also, if it's telling you that a particular infection is identified, do a Google search.  Sometimes, you'll find instructions where you have to do a few extra manual things to get rid of the infection.  Frustrating that AVG or other software can't always get rid of it, but it happens.

Melissa, I run RootKill and then Microsoft Anti-virus (someone linked to it above).

I had a particularly nasty problem the other day I completely just wiped the whole computer (with resource CDs).  Do you have those made?