Use more than one Virus Scanner at same time?
Infopackets Reader Richard D. writes:
" Dear Dennis,
I've read on some web sites that people are using more than one Spyware scanner on their systems for an added layer of protection.
In a similar respect, is it safe to run two virus protection programs at once? Can there be any conflicts? "
My response:
Both Spyware and Virus scanners operate using the same type of mechanism: a database of 'signatures', which are used to recognize infected or suspicious files on your system.
The reason why some people choose to scan their systems twice is simply because not all Spyware databases are the same, and some databases are updated more frequently than others. If one program fails to recognize an infected file, there's a chance that the other one might: hence, an added layer of protection.
Having said that, some Spyware applications (such as Spy Sweeper) use real-time Spyware protection that alert you *before* your system becomes infected with Spyware, whereas other Spyware removers only scan your system when you tell it to (some times, after infection has already occurred). I suspect that the majority of folks that are scanning their systems twice for Spyware are using freeware scanners that do not offer real-time protection.
So does it make sense to use two virus scanners at once?
The simple answer is: no. And that's simply because most virus scanners offer real-time protection (typically found in both freeware anti-virus and paid subscription models).
By utilizing two real-time virus protection solutions at the same time, it means that you'll be scanning each and every file twice before you are able to gain access to it: whether you're reading, writing, or appending information to the file. This will slow your system down considerably. And certainly, there's always a chance that running two virus scanners will cause a conflict, especially if both programs are set for real-time protection.
If you want to stay reasonably protected, use a virus protection solution that is widely accepted, and most importantly, download your virus definitions regularly. Most paid subscription virus protection solutions download automatically -- but only if you're connected to the Internet.
Most popular articles
- Which Processor is Better: Intel or AMD? - Explained
- How to Prevent Ransomware in 2018 - 10 Steps
- 5 Best Anti Ransomware Software Free
- How to Fix: Computer / Network Infected with Ransomware (10 Steps)
- How to Fix: Your Computer is Infected, Call This Number (Scam)
- Scammed by Informatico Experts? Here's What to Do
- Scammed by Smart PC Experts? Here's What to Do
- Scammed by Right PC Experts? Here's What to Do
- Scammed by PC / Web Network Experts? Here's What to Do
- How to Fix: Windows Update Won't Update
- Explained: Do I need a VPN? Are VPNs Safe for Online Banking?
- Explained: VPN vs Proxy; What's the Difference?
- Explained: Difference Between VPN Server and VPN (Service)
- Forgot Password? How to: Reset Any Password: Windows Vista, 7, 8, 10
- How to: Use a Firewall to Block Full Screen Ads on Android
- Explained: Absolute Best way to Limit Data on Android
- Explained: Difference Between Dark Web, Deep Net, Darknet and More
- Explained: If I Reset Windows 10 will it Remove Malware?
![](/graphics/dennisfaas.jpg)
My name is Dennis Faas and I am a senior systems administrator and IT technical analyst specializing in cyber crimes (sextortion / blackmail / tech support scams) with over 20 years experience; I also run this website! If you need technical assistance , I can help. Click here to email me now; optionally, you can review my resume here. You can also read how I can fix your computer over the Internet (also includes user reviews).
We are BBB Accredited
![](https://www.infopackets.com/graphics/bbb.png)
We are BBB accredited (A+ rating), celebrating 21 years of excellence! Click to view our rating on the BBB.