A computer virus is a piece of software developed in order to cause damage, collect data and has the ability to replicate itself on the device or over a network. It is usually loaded onto your device without your knowledge or permission and runs against your wishes.

Luckily enough there are anti-virus kits that offer protection against this malicious type of software.  These programs run on your PC (using in the background) combating and preventing the installation of anything classed as a virus (malware, adware, spyware etc). As long as the anti-virus has real-time protection it will be constantly monitoring your device for any changes being made to the system.

There is an array of different anti-virus software out there; some are free and some are paid. So, which should you choose? Generally, free anti-virus solutions are basic stripped down versions of the manufacturers full/paid version.  They usually include the fundamental tools that any anti-virus offers such as; system scanning and a quarantine but lack the additional tools that take computer security to the next level. These additional tools often include spam filters, browser protection and the most important, real-time scanning.

Depending on your computer activity will depend on what type of AV you’ll require – paid or free.  Generally, if you’re frequently visiting social media sites, online shopping and accessing your internet banking then you’d benefit massively from getting a paid AV due to the enhanced security features. On the other hand, if you believe you’re a very savvy user and know your way around a site without clicking on advertisements or fake download buttons or don’t go online at all then a free anti-virus should suffice.

If you’re currently not using any protection then we suggest downloading any verified free antivirus to tide you over whilst you research and find a paid solution that suits your needs, unless of course you aren’t connected to the internet.