The Network Security. Org

Why All Networked PCs Need Anti Virus Software

Many computer owners mistakenly think that if they run anti-virus software on the computer connected to the Internet then all PCs on the network are protected. However, if you use Microsoft's Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) and Internet Connection Firewall (ICF)programs to share a DSL or cable modem line with several PCs, you need to use anti-virus to protect each PC. Even though only one PC is directly connected to the Internet, any system with Internet access is capable of accidentally downloading or opening virus infected files. For that reason, it's absolutely imperative that you install a good anti-virus package on all of your computers.

Some people confuse the function of the anti-virus software with the function of a firewall. A single firewall is sufficient to protect an entire network, which is not the case with anti-virus software. That needs to be loaded on every system.

Both firewalls and anti-virus software provide protection, but that's where the similarities end. The anti-virus software protects your PC and network from becoming infected with troublesome and sometimes destructive viruses. A firewall protects your entire network from unauthorized access into your network. This prevents intruders or hackers from accessing your personal information or from participating in a Denial of Service Attack on another company's Web site.

Unfortunately, you do incur the cost adding anti-virus software to all your computers. But there is a plus side, the cost of anti-virus software has come down tremendously. For instance on Buy.com, the 2006 version of Norton Anti-virus sells for $34.99 with a $20 mail-in rebate for a total cost of only $14.99. So for less then $30 you could upgrade two computers to the latest version of Norton for less then you paid for a single copy of your previous version. It's definitely worth a few bucks for the added protection it provides. Believe me, the first time a virus infiltrates your system and erases your data, you'll wish you had. Why All Networked PCs Need Anti-Virus Software

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