How computer can be protected from viruses?

There are several things that should be followed to protect the computer from virus infections. They are:

• High-quality anti-virus program is to be used and updated regularly. It is used to scan and files, programs, software, diskettes (even new software from a commercial company) before using them on computer.

• Back-up copies of important documents or files is to be made and stored on separate diskettes. Making backups will also protect the information against accidental file deletion, diskette failure and other damage.

• Whenever using a computer in a campus lab, be sure to reboot or run "cleanup" before starting the session and to log out when ending the session.

• Do not share commercial software with anyone. It is a violation of the author's copyright to distribute such material and it is a way to spread viruses.

• Always scan the diskettes and files after using them on another computer.

• Always scan all files downloaded from the Internet.

• Always scan Word or Excel file email attachments before reading them.