[pchelpers] Re: [pchelpers]

There are several issues, so I will try to address each one:
1) Resources: Running more than 1 program when you don't have to uses 
memory and CPU time that could be put to better use. It may also hang 
the system at times.
2) Protection: The degree of protection is provided by the smartest 
program with the most recent virus definitions update. It cannot be 
better than its last update. Any virus appearing after that may easily 
find its way into the system because the antivirus program does not know 
about it yet.
3) Comparisons: Different programs may do better in certain areas 
because of their detection algorithms. For example, Norton was able to 
detect Word macro virus types well before Macafee could. Since then, 
Macafee have dealt with the problem and they continue to compete for the 
market.
4) Problems: Some versions of Norton software do cause problems and 
crashes with the operating system resulting from a habit of trying to 
take over various processes in it. AVG on the other hand just runs on 
the system and seldom causes a problem.
5) Updates: All the antivirus makers put effort into keeping their 
listings up to date. As they discover new virus programs daily (at least 
6 or 7 a day), these get added the moment fixes for them can be created. 
This keeps the antivirus products competing for first place all the 
time, and places keep changing.
6) Algorithms: Many virus types can be recognised by their individual 
signitures, but many employ very smart techniques to hide and spread. 
Keeping up with these is more complex than just recognising and removing 
them. Some change into several forms and hide files under random names 
to protect themselves. This sort of strategy requires antivirus makers 
to know thir strategies and write methods to find and remove all these 
possible variations. This means program updates as well as virus 
definition updates.

So now you can appreciate what I mean by saying 'two programs for twice 
the protection' is just too simplistic.

Bob & Ellen Mickelson wrote:

>I'd like to know what the advantage is of running two anti virus programs and 
>is that even a good idea?  Doesn't that take a ton of resources?  Do any of 
>you guys run two different programs?  
>I have Norton Corporate version and am looking at Avast 4 home.  Do I even 
>NEED two?  Is that twice the protection.....as in:  What one doesn't get, the 
>other one will?  Or what?
>curious...
>
>Ellen
>

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