antimalware
What Security Software Do You Recommend? (2026 Q3 update)
My updated guide cuts through the hype with four no-nonsense steps to keep your PC safe. Learn what works, what to avoid, and how to stay secure without overspending or overcomplicating.
Do I Need More Than One Anti-malware Tool?
It’s tempting to think more is better when it comes to security software. In reality, too many can cause trouble.
Why Did My Security Software Not Detect a Virus on My PC?
Malware can slip past even a good antivirus program. Using my silliest metaphor yet, I’ll explain vulnerabilities, exploits, and what actually keeps you safe. Learn how infections happen and what you can do about it.
What’s the Best Anti-Virus?
There just isn’t a best. Knowing that will (hopefully) lead you in a safer direction.
Will Ransomware Encrypt Backups?
Worried that ransomware could sneak past your defenses and encrypt your backups? Most ransomware won’t, but it’s not impossible. I’ll discuss how ransomware picks its targets, why your backup image files are usually safe, and one simple habit to keep your files protected.
Why would scanning a disk be quick, but just a file on it be slow?
If that large file is a backup image, then maybe your anti-malware tool knows what I know… that there’s no point in scanning it.
How do I safely switch from one security tool to another?
If you follow a few security measures it’s perfectly safe to uninstall an old anti-malware program and then install your new choice.
Can I Delete What My Anti-malware Program Puts in Quarantine?
Quarantine gives you the option to “rescue” files you might want. Of course there is one way to make sure you always have an extra copy of everything…
Should I Cover My Webcam When Not in Use?
Sure, you can cover your webcam with tape. But that won’t solve the real problem… you’ve got malware on your computer!
How do I protect my Windows XP after they stop sending updates?
When Microsoft stops support for XP your computer will keep working. The big problem is unsupported vulnerabilities.
Can I get malware from a picture?
Typically there’s no need to be terrified of clicking on images… as long as you know what to look for and how to manage your protection.
Do I Need to Deactivate My Old Anti-virus Before Installing the New One?
It’s best to uninstall old anti-virus software before installing a new one, assuming you make sure to stay safe during the transition.
Do I really need to uninstall these programs to update my anti-virus?
When you install a new anti-malware tool on a machine that has similar programs already, you may see a warning about possible conflicts. Basically, you have three choices to continue.
