Summary: If you use the internet you have
probably come across a virus or spyware of some type. Even the most savvy internet users
fall victim to this at least once or twice. This article will explain what anti-virus,
anti-spyware, and registry cleaning software do for your computer and why they are
important for the health of your computer.
Spyware is designed to intercept or take control over the
interaction you have with your computer without your consent. Spyware collects personal
information (in addition to your passwords and surfing patterns, good spyware can also get
credit card and bank information), redirects your browser (I inadvertently downloaded
spyware one time that would send me to the same advertisement no matter what web link I
typed in or clicked on), and spyware can actually change your computer settings affecting
how you connect and how fast you connect to the internet.
Anti-spyware protects your computer from spyware. A good
anti-spyware program will catch spyware before it infests your system and a great program
will catch in and get rid of it once it's on your computer. It is important when deciding
to use anti-virus software to make sure you are at a legitimate website before
downloading.
Viruses (also called malware) are similar to spyware except
they are not designed to find personal information. Viruses are designed for the purpose
of destroying your computer. They do this by deleting and partially deleting files
throughout your computer. Viruses are most easily spread through email and websites.
However, viruses are also attached to .exe files. In order for the virus to work, it must
be executed. These are just as damaging to your computer as spyware.
Strong anti-virus software is a must if you are connected
to the internet and even if you're not as viruses can piggy back in through burned
software or disks.
Registry cleaners are another thing you should be aware of
if you're a computer user. The verdict is out on this one. Some experts suggest that
because Registry Cleaner removes data that is no longer in use (these are designed for
Windows OS) it frees up space and helps eliminate data that could be slowing your computer
down and since manually cleaning out your computer register would take a ridiculous amount
of time, these programs are beneficial.
On the other side of the argument, experts argue that using
a register cleaner makes a user more open to malware infection, and does not affect the
speed, especially if there are multiple users with their own log ins. The jury is out on
this one.
In short, your computer health is dependent upon your
willingness to take care of it. Anti-virus and anti-spyware programs are essential. If you
want a registry cleaner, research and find out if you should use one based on your
computer usage. |
