Yo guys i just ordered a new computer. I'm not a computer expert at all. Its a sony vaio and i basically want to make this virus proof. I want to be able to download stuff without the fear of getting a virus or if i get one i want the computer to be able to quickly dispose of it. Is this possible??? if so tell me how thanks.
It's not possible...especially on a Windows computer. There are steps that you can take to make it safer
#1). Use a router to provide basic NAT firewalling
#2). Leave the built-in Windows firewall enabled
#3). Get an Antivirus application, keep it updated, scan regularly. There are several free choices.
#4). Don't download from warez sites, software sharing sites, peer to peer networks, etc. Don't use hacked or pirated software
#5). Don't visit porn sites.
You can never make it invinciable, but you have the right mentality. You'll want to use a good real-time anti-virus to begin with. I recommend Microsoft Security Essentials because its free, easy to use, and rarely causes conflicts with other software. Others on the site regularly recommend Kaspersky (subscription* based) and Avira (subscription and free versions available). You should also run an on-demand anti-virus (only runs when you tell it to), like MalwareBytes (what I recommend) or Hitman Pro, both of which have subscription and free versions. Windows Firewall is pretty good, but if you have or can buy a router with a built in firewall, that would be even better. Another good idea is to back up all your data in case you get a particularly nasty virus that requires a reinstall to get rid of.
*Subscription mean a yearly fee.
Sandboxie, Returnil and Images.
Learn their capabilities and you will get very close to the magic 100% security even when deliberately downloading/running malware.
Defensewall and Shadow Protect are another good match up.
Free version of hitman pro allows unlimted scans but only offers 30 days malware removal,if you want more after that then you have to buy.
Welcome to the Seven Forums! Mylan
The one sure way to make any system invincible is simply to unplug everything and stash it away for a good 10yrs. or so and end up with a good clean museum piece! As far as the Microsoft Security Essentials or any program for that matter none are ever 100% fool proof where the best advice anyone can offer besides "smart browsing" as pparks1 pointed out is getting familiar with various programs as well as removal tools.
As far as the MS Security Essentials that detected a trojan manual removal was needed when first looked over here. The Windows Firewall isn't the best found since various malwares are designed to get through that. With the free av programs you also would want to consider some IE protection and not wait for the av program to remove things but be alerted to bad sites when hitting one on a web search for example.
Surprize more reputable seeming sites are guilty of dumping adwares on you then ??? other sites it would seem. The free downloads from various places may contain bugs or automatically have a new toolbar option already checked off to install. Malicious code detection for zip and rar files will help spot bugged downloads.
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