The bottom line "right" answer I was hoping to hear from people was "I go online and update my virus program regularly." Thank you thank you thank you!

But as average consumers, we can't know "it all" - so we learn some key words and try our bests to grasp a general understanding on how most things work (either that or I hire someone

I just think it is important that we understand HOW Anti-virus software keeps us protected AFTER the installation.

Every file on your computer has a 3 letter extension which appears to be part of "it's name", but in reality, those letters are a "code" or command... they tell the computer what the file is and what to do with it. For example, .exe launches (executes) a program, .dll is a library of supporting information and .jpg is a picture.

Viruses often come in with TWO of these extensions - like "goldfish.jpg.scr" (we had something like that the other day... see earlier post) Upon first glance, one might think it is a picture of a goldfish... but it is the " .scr " that is at the end... therefore "the command" that when opened, instructs your computer to release the virus.

.dat is a simply a "data file" of supporting information. In the case of virus protection, they provide us with virus definitions in supporting files called .dats that will (hopefully) keep YOUR pc protected.

This is done through updates with is a PAID subscription YES - this costs you money! But they have us over a barrel here! It isn't expensive... like (I can't remember - mine renews in May) $15 a year?

I know I am over-simplifying this for most of you - but if ONE PERSON realizes they haven't been "updating their dats" and starts doing it, there will be ONE more person who is part of the solution. And for everyone who asked, "Ummm... am I doing this right? or "do you mean 'this'?" - I applaud you for taking another step JUST to confirm you understand your Anti-virus software!

I compare this to someone asking me to put water in their radiator
If I don't know what a radiator is... wouldn't you hope I'd ASK before touching YOUR car???