How to Install Security Software
- 1). Visit the software's download website. There are many variations of PC security software. Effective and efficient programs are available online and are even free. Some of the most popular and reputable programs include Emsisoft Anti-Malware, Ad-Aware and Spybot Search & Destroy. See the References section for direct links to the each program's download page.
- 2). Download the software. Save the installation package to a secure and easy-to-locate folder. When you have finished downloading the installation package, open the Setup program. Follow the on-screen instructions until you have the security software as a program on your computer.
- 3). Run the software. Nearly all anti-spyware and anti-malware programs will ask you whether you want to download any updates. Confirm that you do. This is vital for any new security software because viruses and Trojan horses are continually changing and are becoming harder to trace. Security updates are accurate in telling your program what specific new malware to look out for.
If you don't update your security software, you are in danger of missing potentially dangerous files. - 4). Perform a start-up scan. Some security programs will give you the choice of running an initial scan to remove any malicious files on your computer. Perform the deepest scan available. This will leave no file unchecked and should clear your PC of any Spyware or viruses.
A start-up scan also gives your security software a clean slate to work with. This means that when the program is monitoring your PC in real time, it will not be bombarded by existing malware. - 5). Configure your security software. Although different programs will have various options, you should ensure that the anti-malware software will inform you of regular updates.
If you do not configure the update settings, your program may miss any new or evolved viruses, worms or Trojan horses.