Since everyone is aware of the fact that there are countless viruses that could harm your computer system, there is a general consensus that having an antivirus program is a must. However, with all the antivirus programs that exist, how will you know which is the best one for your computer? Besides, wouldn’t it be better if you installed more than one antivirus program, so as to have a more effective security system?
These are two of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to antivirus programs. To keep it simple, it is best to retain a general rule of thumb – one antivirus program is enough. Actually, it is more than enough, as long as you choose a good one, because you will have a general security system to safeguard your computer. However, you also need to appreciate the fact that no antivirus program will stop all viruses. Just as a security camera will prove to be effective against burglars and intruders, so will an antivirus program be able to offer some security for your computer system. However, there is no guarantee that some strange or advanced type of virus will manage to find its way through your system.
Another important factor that you need to understand is that different antivirus programs will use different algorithms to run and detect viruses on your computer. So, it goes without saying, that if there are two or more antivirus programs running on your computer, there is going to be a lot of confusion. The programs will end up conflicting against each other, and chances are that they will end up opening the PC for more infections. Two programs trying to run at the same time will also slow down your whole system.
It is also worth noting that if you have two antivirus programs installed on your computer, chances are that they will end up fighting over viruses. One program will find a virus, and then it will remove it and quarantine it. The other program will end up getting confused about the quarantined file, and it will try to remove it in its own way. Thus it will send several reports and notifications, about a file that was actually removed by the other antivirus. This will obviously end up confusing you too, as you will start to get bogus notifications which will have you worry for nothing.
So, as a general rule of thumb, you should not install more than one antivirus program on your computer. What you need is just one antivirus program, and a firewall. The latter will basically control what comes into your computer over the network. The antivirus program, on the other hand, will operate by checking every file you open or download so as to see if there are any signs of malware.
Usually it is best to have a firewall and an antivirus program, and then supplement them with an on-demand malware scanner. These do not operate in the background, and just carry out a scan of the hard drive when you decide it is best to do so. In such a way there will be no problems and your computer system will be properly protected.