Windows:Protecting your computer free from Viruses, Malwares and other Harmful Programs

Many People face problems of viruses on their computers nowadays. Many times they lose their important data because of these harmful programs. I have been using Windows 7 for 5 years. I keep installing different softwares on my PC but yet I did not face any problem of viruses on My PC. How did I maintain this? Here are the tips that I followed and still follow.

 Here are some useful tips to keep your computer virus free.

1. First of all after installing an operating system I would like to suggest not to insert any external drive into the USB port.Because most of the viruses enter into the system through external drives using auto-run feature of the windows.
2. I would like to suggest you first to disable auto-run feature.
   
3. Install any reliable antivirus software like Norton, McAfee, Kasper-sky, etc. If you don't want to spend money you can install Microsoft security essentials which is a free antivirus program by Microsoft and is very easy to install and use.
4. Keep your Antivirus software updated with the latest virus signatures / definitions.
5. Don't open any attracting program blindly such as games or an other program with attractive icons that may be a virus.
6. Scan files for viruses before using them.
7. Don't download programs from the Web. Unreliable sources such as Internet newsgroups or Web sites that you haven't heard of may be willing providers of viruses for your computer. Avoid downloading files you can't be sure are safe. This includes freeware, screensavers, games, and any other executable program—any files with an ".exe" or "".com" extension, such as "coolgame.exe." Check to see if the site has anti-virus software running on their side.
8. Use common sense. It's always better to err on the side of safety. If you're unsure about an attachment, delete it. Especially if it's from a source you don't recognize. If there are tempting animations on a site that look highly unprofessional, don't download them.
9. Don't boot from an unknown data CD. Data CDs are one of the most common ways viruses are transmitted. If you are using a data CD while working on your computer, remove it when you shut the machine off or the computer may automatically try to boot from the disc, perhaps launching or installing bad programs or files on your computer.
10. Don't share data CDs or Flash drive. Even a well-meaning friend may unknowingly pass along a virus, Trojan horse, or worm. Label your discs clearly so you know they're yours and don't loan them out. If a friend passes you a foreign disc, suggest an alternative method of file sharing.