Step One: Be virus-free

Email, chatting with friends, surfing the Internet, and downloading files are a few of the most common activities that also expose systems to threats like viruses. Among the most popular Virus Protection software packages are Norton Anti-Virus and McAfee VirusScan. Your best bet is to purchase Anti-Virus software and keep it updated with current Virus Definitions.

If you already own Virus Protection software, scan your comptuer at this time. Then proceed to Step Two.

However, for the purposes of scanning your computer for the immediate time being, we recommend using an online tool from Symantec, the makers of Norton Anti-Virus. This is a web-based tool, so there's nothing to purchase for this scan. Access the tool at http://security.symantec.com/ssvc6/. This tool generates Child windows (commonly known as "Pop-Ups"), so if you're running any Pop-Up stopping software, you may consider disabling the software for these steps.

Follow the prompts to complete the "Virus Detection" scan. Windows will likely prompt you with a Security Warning signed by Symantec Corporation. It is necessary to accept this dialog by clicking "Yes" to continue the scan. You may get this prompt several times.

This tool does not remove viruses from your computer! If viruses are found, we suggest immediately purchasing Virus Protection software.