Most premium antiviruses will automatically scan for threats,but manual scans are still effective.
Ill explain how scans work and give you some tips about when to run them.
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When Should You Run a Virus Scan?
Maintaining a schedule of routine scans is important to ensure your gear is always protected.
I recommend running one every week.
Most importantly, your setup needs to stay on.
If you shut your rig down or initiate a restart, the scan wont work.
ensure your equipment isnt set to shut down or go to sleep after a certain period of inactivity.
If you use a laptop, keep it plugged in.
You may need to change your options to turn off auto-sleep or auto-power.
Finally, its best to schedule a scan when you arent using your rig.
Remember that scans can take up to 4 hours, so plan accordingly.
Virus Scans and Sleep Mode
Unfortunately, you cannot run a virus scan in sleep mode.
Most virus protection programs require the computer to be active to check for a virus in your setup.
How Does a Virus Scan Work?
There are manydifferent types of viruses and malware, and they can function differently.
Each piece of malicious code exhibits a pattern of behavior called a signature.
Your antivirus software learns to recognize those signatures every time you install or allow an update.
After the scan is complete, many antivirus programs automatically quarantine or remove the threats.
Most software will also repair and restore the affected files and return them to their original location.
Instructions are then given for dealing with or removing quarantined items.
A good antivirus, like Norton, for example, will also create log reports to keep you informed.
You should review the scan reports as they are a good source of information about current viruses.
Usually, though, the impact will be negligible.
If you are running an older computer, you might want to choose a cloud-based antivirus scanner likeBitdefender.
In general, antivirus programs need at least 4 GB of RAM and a 1.5 GHz processor.
You should also keep 10 to 15 percent of storage space free.
The worst thing to do is uninstall your antivirus program completely or turn off the virus scanner.
Can a Virus Scan Cause Computer Problems?
Some people may install one antivirus software along with other security software, such as an antispyware program.
However, this can prevent the virus scans from protecting your setup properly.
Most importantly, any scan will be interrupted if your machine goes into sleep mode.
This will compromise the whole scan and force you to start over.
If you use a laptop, check that its plugged in.
Scans can take up to 4 hours so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can virus scans run in Sleep Mode?
No, and its a fundamental limitation.
This isnt a big deal, however.
