Maker tech hub — AI · 3D print · Pi · ESP32 · plus the classic tech archive.

Free ESP32 kit · Books · Network Ninja · Archive

Classic tech archive. From the original averyjparker.com tech blog — historical context; pair with modern guides where noted. Full archive · Maker projects · Network Ninja

Classic tip · Security

Big trouble - you don't have any viruses....

You know, I've seen soooo many antivirus vendors that are somewhat ethically challanged claim that cookie files are a big threat, or in worse cases files that the "free" antivirus test downloaded are…

Written by

Avery J. Parker

IT veteran, maker educator, and author of Network Ninja, 3D Printing Mastery, and AI Workflow Mastery. Business IT: Diversified Tech Solutions.

You know, I've seen soooo many antivirus vendors that are somewhat ethically challanged claim that cookie files are a big threat, or in worse cases files that the "free" antivirus test downloaded are dangerous "you should be glad we got here in time - where's our $30 to fix things..." kind of message, but from a mainline, well known antivirus vendor you expect better.... Over at Spyware Confidential, after an online scan at a leading AV vendor, they've received a couple of emails explaining the great danger their computer is in after the scan turned up 0 viruses and 0 infected files.


Yep - that's big trouble, but not for the pc - for the AV companies bottom line? One reason I like recommending AVG for home users is the fact that it's completely free to download and install for home use, you get free updates and don't have concerns of them trying to scare you into buying. Of course, I've had people say you can't expect anything from a free antivirus if you really want to be safe buy Norton Antivirus, and then I've noticed, they're selling it...

Of course, different vendors have different times to update, but really and truly the biggest difference I've found between AVG and the big name antivirus vendors is the fact that it takes up fewer system resources, keeps a smaller footprint and there seem to be almost daily updates. (I've seen NAV systems that go several days between updates.)

Anyway, I thought it was funny.... darned if you don't have any viruses, darned if you do.... I guess that's the companies motto. (BTW she didn't single out a particular vendor, I referred to NAV in the above article merely because it's the one I've heard more people try to sell, and in fact, it's the one that I've had to convince folks that it's not the only antivirus on earth.)