What are online virus scans?
The most common online virus scans are hosted on security companies’ Web sites and use ActiveX technology to scan your computer, flagging any files that show up in the company’s spyware or virus definitions. Exact methodologies vary from vendor to vendor, as does coverage. Panda ActiveScan claims it detects rootkits. Kaspersky updates its definitions hourly; others once a day. Some, such as F-Secure, require Internet Explorers, while others, such as Trend Micro, also support Firefox. When should you use online virus scans? Online scans are best used for sniffing out low-level threats that don’t impede Internet access. They usefully offer a second opinion while conveniently skipping the installation steps of downloaded programs, and are usually compatible with security software already installed on your PC. If you’re concerned about higher-level threats, be sure to read these techniques for removing a Trojan horse. The disadvantages of online virus scans Most scans are just malware dete
