An introduction to online virus removal

Computer viruses can increase the rate of damage through replications. It can utilise all the resources, leaving the computer in an unresponsive state. Sometimes the amount of damage causing by computer viruses can cost corporations and individuals hundreds of millions of dollars combined. However, there are tools that can be used to combat and remove computer viruses effectively.

Virus removal tools

Computers can be protected from viruses with an anti-virus program. Anti-virus programs, also called virus scanners, are designed to scan computers for potential viruses, and provides an option for quarantine. Sometimes quarantine is interchangeable with removal programs, but in reality computer viruses are not actually removed. To quarantine a virus is to isolate it and block it from spreading.
Quarantine Quarantining a virus effectively locks it in a 'jail' so that it can not perform further damage. There are two ways to scan computers for viruses: offline and online. Online and offline scanning Computers can be scanned for viruses while offline using an anti-virus program that is installed on the local computers. Computers can also be scanned using an online anti-virus tool. While both methods are equally effective in removing computer viruses, there are advantages and disadvantages that each one provides.

Positive points

Online anti-virus programs provide many advantages. No installation required
Using the online anti-virus program, users do not need to install the anti-virus program on their local computer. This reduces disk space and memory foot print that most anti-virus programs require. Free versus paid versions Online anti-virus tools are usually free, while their offline versions are usually not. Online anti-virus is as effective as offline for removing viruses. Additional features In addition to viruses, it can also remove malware, Trojans, worms, and spyware programs. Many reputable companies create online tools for removing viruses, so users have endless of options to choose.

Negative points

Connectivity issues Online anti-virus program is at a disadvantage because it requires an internet connection. It also usually cannot scan a specific file. While online anti-virus programs are free, it does not have advanced features that offline versions provide such as active monitoring, automate scanning jobs, and scanning e-mails and downloads for potential threats.
Illegal websites There are many illegitimate websites that provide free online anti-virus scans. They use tactics such as reporting false presence of viruses to get people to buy their anti-virus programs. Some of the free online virus removers include Trend Micro’s HouseCalls antivirus and BitDefender online scanner.