Protecting the computer from viruses

Daily protection, without doubled software

Most infections start with a file that was opened, a link in email, or a system that was not updated. Windows 10 and Windows 11 already include protection. You do not need to stack layer on layer.

1. Leave Windows updates on. Known holes are closed there, not in a random add-on.
2. Run one antivirus. Microsoft Defender is enough for most home computers. If you install ESET or another product, remove the previous one so two do not run together.
3. Do not open an attachment you were not expecting, even if the name looks familiar. An invoice or a courier zip is a common pattern.

Browser and passwords

• Use an updated browser. Close the update notice; do not postpone it for weeks.
• Use a different password for each important service, and a password manager if you can. The same password for email and the bank is one door.
• A site that asks you to install a "player" or an "urgent add-on" to watch a video is a tab to close.

Back up before you clean

If a ransom note appears, the screen locks, or files change to an unknown extension: disconnect the computer from the network and do not delete things before you have a copy. A backup on an external drive that you unplug after the copy keeps the files even when the computer itself is hit.

A full scan after you install new protection is a reasonable step. It does not bring back files that were already encrypted.

More guides

• ESET NOD32 antivirus
• The ESET license store
• A slow computer: what to check before you upgrade