We’ve all heard about computer-virus nightmare stories from friends and colleagues. What begins as an innocent-looking email can end up ravaging your PC, wiping out files and destroying your software programs. However, many websites and unassuming files can inflict damage as well, without us ever knowing until the damage is already done.

Even the best antivirus software cannot fully shield a user from the bugs and trojans running rampant on the Web. However, many software packages are designed to ward off new viruses as they are emerging. There are many aspects of viruses people don’t know about and before choosing an anti-virus software program, it’s necessary to separate fact from fiction.

Do these virus FAQs surprise or scare you?

• A virus can be spread when its host file is replicated. For instance, if you copy a file from a friend’s jump drive that contains a virus, your computer can get it.
• A virus does not need permission from a PC’s user in order to download and spread.
• Resident viruses do not need a host to spread. These viruses load themselves into memory of a PC’s files and transfer control to the host.
• Nonresident viruses look for hosts to infect and replicate themselves.
• Viruses can hide their file extensions from anti-virus programs, making it necessary to stay on top of your security updates in order to outwit the virus.
• Virus signature definitions only protect users from viruses pre-dating their last virus signature update: another reason to run automatic updates whenever possible.
• Heuristic software protection involves protection based on virus’ common behaviors, before there is an outbreak.

A virus’s capability to wreak havoc is truly extensive, but can be preventable. Every person will most likely come face-to-face with a virus at least once during their computer-usage. This makes it necessary to compare antivirus security and find one to begin protecting you.

6StarReviews.com is one place you can look for programs like The Shield Pro, which is designed to scan for viruses at high speeds and offers immediate security-breach alerts. Before you fall prey to the next Trojan, consider the benefits of purchasing yourself some security software.