STACK #246 April 2025

TECH FEATURE

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system – which can actually happen! Extras like private

browsers, password managers, parental settings and social media monitoring can be included with different services, so it's important to match antivirus software to your needs. Why do you need it? Antivirus software might not feel like something you need until you're impacted by a computer virus, so it's best to install it before that happens. Windows PCs, in particular, are vulnerable to malware, and while the free Windows Defender can prevent some viruses taking hold, it lacks many of the features and support that the paid services offer, including protection against scams. Antivirus software with scam protection can be an excellent way of identifying if the email you've just received, which may look legit, is actually dodgy. If you don't feel you need it yourself, consider any older family members – are they likely to open email attachments or visit websites you'd know to avoid? Many antivirus subscriptions also grant the user access to 24/7 tech support, which is great for peace of mind – and you won’t spend all day on hold waiting for help. Is it easy to install? Antivirus software is available as a digital download for easy installation. When you pick your service you can often also choose how many devices you want the software to cover, and how long you want an active subscription – you can cover your laptop, phone, and tablet in one subscription.

A laptop infected by malware can really ruin your day, but the good news is that antivirus software offers a simple and preventative solution. Let’s take a look at what it does and why you need it. Words James O’Connor HOW TO SAFEGUARD YOUR LAPTOP

I f you've ever had a computer infected with malware, you know how much of a pain it can be when everything slows down, pop ups invade your screen, and your once trusty laptop becomes virtually unusable. Then there are online scams and the potential for identify theft to be wary of. The best way to combat computer viruses and safeguard your laptop or other devices is prevention, and antivirus software is an easy solution for peace of mind. What does antivirus software do? Every software suite is a little different in offerings, but at a base level installing an antivirus service will combat viruses and prevent them from invading your laptop. If you visit a dodgy website that tries to install malware – which can hide itself and disrupt your computer in numerous ways – the software blocks the install. If any has already snuck though, your antivirus can remove them. If anything suspicious is happening on your computer, it will let you know. If a website, link or download is dangerous, it will warn you. You

can see what’s being blocked and learn where these viruses came from. Some antivirus software can also help to identify scam emails and text messages, including attempts at identity theft, and many services provide you with a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for secure internet use. A VPN masks your IP address so your laptop can't be traced, and if you use your laptop regularly in public spaces this will protect it from anyone trying to remotely hack into your

Installing the software involves going to the site specified by the provider, creating an account, agreeing to terms and conditions, and then following the app install instructions. It's no more complicated than installing Spotify, or any other piece of software that requires an account.

50 APRIL 2025

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