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Change default audio output for Narrator

For PC users that are blind or have low vision, the Narrator accessibility feature in Windows 10, lets you use your PC without a display or mouse to complete common tasks – it reads and interacts with things on the screen, like text and buttons. The narrator can be used to read and write an email, browse the internet, and work with documents.

In Windows 10, there are a lot of options for Narrator that you can customize. You can change its keyboard shortcuts, personalize Narrator’s voice, enable Caps Lock warnings, and more. You can choose the voice for the Narrator, adjust the speaking rate, pitch, and volume.

To change the default audio output device used to play the voice of the Narrator in Windows 10:

  • Press the ⊞ WINDOWS + I
  • From the Settings menu, click Ease of Access.
  • Click Narrator on the left pane.
  • In the Narrator window, on the right pane, toggle the button to On to enable Narrator if required.
  • Scroll down to the Personalize Narrator’s voice section.
  • For the Select where you hear Narrator’s voice option, click the drop-down and select the audio output device you want from the list. Please know that you will not be able to choose if you do not have multiple audio output devices connected to your Windows 10 computer.
  • Exit Settings when done.

If you would like to read more helpful articles and tips about various software and hardware visit errortools.com daily.

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This Publisher has been blocked
There are times when you try to open a file, an executable file for instance, but were unable to do so since you encounter an error in an Open File – Security Warning dialog box that says, “This publisher has been blocked from running software on your machine, You must unblock this publisher to run this software”. This kind of error is most likely thrown by your operating system because it considers the file to be unsafe and could potentially harm your computer. However, if you’re certain that the file is harmless, read on as this post will walk you through fixing the error so you can open the file without getting an error. There are various options you can check out to fix the error. You may run the program using Command Prompt or unblock it using File Properties. You could also try turning off SmartScreen or use the unblock file command in Windows PowerShell.

Option 1 – Try running the program via Command Prompt

  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box and type “cmd” in the field and hit Enter to open Command Prompt.
  • Next, tap the Shift key and right-click on the program or the executable file, and then select the “Copy as path” option.
  • After that, paste this path in the Command Prompt window and tap Enter to open the program.

Option 2 – Try to unblock the file using File Properties

  • Right-click on the file you were trying to open and select Properties.
  • Next, click the Unblock button and then click on the Apply and OK buttons.
  • You should now be able to open or access the file without getting the error.

Option 3 – Turn off SmartScreen

The next thing you can do is to turn off SmartScreen temporarily. All you have to do is open the Windows Defender Security Center and from there, go to the App & browser control section. After that, click on the radio button for Off under Check apps and files. Once you’re done, try opening the file again. Don’t forget to enable the SmartScreen back on.

Option 4 – Try to use the Unblock-File command in PowerShell

You might also want to utilize the Unblock-File command in Windows PowerShell as it will unblock the file so you can open it. To execute this command, follow these steps:
  • Tap the Win + X keys and then click on Windows PowerShell.
  • After opening PowerShell, type or copy and paste this command and tap Enter to execute it: Get-ChildItem -Path 'C:Users<username>Downloads' | Unblock-File
  • The command you entered will unblock all the files in the Downloads folder, assuming that’s where the file you were trying to open is stored. If it’s not, then replace the path with the path where the file is located. Take note to also replace “<username>” with your Username.
  • Now check if the file has been unblocked by accessing or opening it.
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Get a Custom URL for Your YouTube Channel
Having a youtube channel nowadays is quite an easy task, you just need to create a free google account and there you go, you can start uploading videos to your YouTube channel. All you need in today's world is some applications for manipulating video material, creation of titles and graphics, some charisma and ideas for content and you could be a well-known YouTuber. For some guidance on software needed for this kind of creativity, we urge you to check our article about open source free software alternatives to paying ones here. So now that we have technicality out of way there is one more prerequisite that is needed in order for you to have your unique custom URL for your channel.
  • The channel must be at least 30 days old.
  • The channel must have a profile picture and a banner image.
  • The channel must have at least 100 subscribers.
You need to fulfill all three prerequisites in order to change your typical URL to something nicer and personal like youtube.com/myGREATchannel So if you have everything needed let's get that custom URL for your channel.
  1. Sign in to your YouTube channel
  2. On the top-right corner of the YouTube window, click on your profile picture.
  3. From the drop-down menu, select YouTube Studio.
  4. From the list on the right side of the YouTube Studio page, select Customization.
  5. Under Channel customization, select Basic info.
  6. Under Channel URL, click on Set a custom URL for your channel.
  7. Your custom URL will appear in the box below. You can change it as you desire.
  8. Click on the Publish button on the top-right corner of the window to set your custom URL.

WORD OF WARNING:

Once the custom URL is set, it can neither be changed nor transferred to someone else so make sure that channel name is really something that you want for the long run.
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TPM 2.0 and Windows 11, all you need to know
TPM or Trusted Platform Module version 2.0 is a must-have if you plan on upgrading your system to Windows 11. So what exactly is TPM and do you have it?

TPM checkerWhat exactly is TPM?

TPM is a tamper-resistant hardware technology tasked with generating and storing encryption keys inside it for better PC security. It can be remotely used to authenticate hardware and software by utilizing a unique endorsement key placed into the hardware itself. This technology can be used for example in BitLocker inside Windows in order to have data on a hard drive encrypted so if the mentioned drive is connected to another computer it would not be able to be accessed since the encryption key is stored in the TPM module. Microsoft is pushing its agenda that Windows 11 must be and must feel like safety first OS which will protect user data and user information and requiring TPM means that each Windows 11 will be secure so no additional software patches will be required for an extra layer of security. Windows 11 will assume that each user has TPM encryption enabled and will be built upon that.

Do you have TPM on your computer?

If your computer or hardware has been purchased in 2016 or later there are very high chances that you already have the required technology to run Windows 11. Unfortunately, many gaming motherboards have not been placing TPM in their boards and you might not have it. Also, there is the option of you having it but it is turned off in motherboard settings making Windows unable to detect it. As you can clearly see there are a lot of scenarios around required tech and honestly it is a complete mess. But lucky for you there are ways to find out do you possess the needed module in order to make an upgrade. On your current computer on which you would like to make an upgrade in your current Windows OS press ⊞ WINDOWS + R to open the run dialog. Inside run dialog type in TPM.msc and press ENTER to open Trusted Platform Module Management on Local Computer. You will immediately receive information do you have the required module. If everything is fine, you are good to go, however, if it says that compatible TPM cannot be found there is a chance that either you do not have needed hardware or it might be turned off inside motherboard settings.

Check motherboard UEFI

If you have a newer motherboard but Windows utility cannot detect TPM there is a chance that it might be turned off directly on your board. In order to check this, you will have to boot up your PC into UEFI either by pressing the corresponding key when it is turned ON or from Windows reboot options. Once you are inside UEFI you need to find security options and see if there is an option to turn ON or enable TPM. Since every motherboard is different and has different UEFI software we cannot cover all of the permutations and the best we can do is hope that provided information is enough. You can also visit your motherboard manufacturer to see instructions for your specific case.

Conclusion

TPM itself is generally an OK idea and I can surely see good sides of it but there is this lurking feeling that generally, Microsoft is not really concerned about the security of our data and that the real requirement for this is trying to battle software piracy. I simply cannot trust company which introduced tons of telemetry tracking through ages and which has done everything in their power to battle non-legal use of their software. I do not promote piracy but I support free choice and besides, who can tell me what will happen if TPM malfunctions, will I lose all of my data forever? It is not so uncommon that TPM has malfunctioned in the past and it is only logical to presume it can do it again in the future but this time we will not have the choice not to use it, we will be forced into it.
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Windows installation stuck on Set up a Pin
After you fresh install Windows 10 on your computer, it allows you to set up a PIN just before you can start using it. However, a number of users reported that the Windows 10 installation gets stuck on the “Set up a Pin” phase. If you are one of the users who experience the same thing, then read on as this post will walk you through fixing the problem. As users start to use their newly installed Windows 10 computer, they reported that the screen is still stuck even after they enter the correct PIN twice and there is no way for them to go forward or backward. Note that this is a part of the account setup and that your computer must stay connected to your internet connection before you finalize everything. And even though the PIN works when the computer is offline, the account setup still needs an internet connection, at least for a fresh installation. The solution for this kind of issue is quite easy and there won’t be any problem even if your computer shuts down or restarts since the installation is already complete and all that’s left is the account setup. To fix this problem, follow the steps given below. Step 1: The first thing you have to do is to turn off your internet connection or disable all connectivity from your computer. Note: If you are using either an Ethernet cable or a Wi-Fi switch to connect to the internet, you have to disable or remove them. But if you don’t have any options, just completely turn off your internet connection. Step 2: The next thing you have to do is to force your computer to shut down and then restart your computer. The setup process will eventually pick up exactly where it left off. The only difference is that there is no connection to the internet and your screen will no longer be stuck on the PIN setup screen so you now have the option to skip it and wait until you’re logged in for the first time. Step 3: Once you’re done, you can then you can choose to Setup Pin later on and turn your internet connection back on or connect your computer with an internet connection.
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Guide to Quickly Fixing the Thorconnwndclass
Thorconnwndclass error is an Outlook error that has recently reared its head. Known to create several problems in the proper functioning of the Outlook application, this error is essentially a constituent of the Norton Antivirus Crash Guard Symantec component. That’s why those using the Norton Antivirus program are most likely to encounter this error.

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

When the Thorconnwndclass error occurs, the Outlook closes unexpectedly, users encounter problems while sending or receiving emails and, performance of Outlook is degraded and this happens because issues arise while accessing the PST file. Because of this damaged PST file, stored data is unavailable for access. Other factors that trigger the Thorconnwndclass error are listed below.
  • Corrupt or damaged Outlook Add-ins
  • Corrupt or damaged Outlook bar
  • Unfinished Outlook installation
  • Faulty settings
  • Thorconnwndclass Norton is being used with Outlook
Regardless of the underlying factors that lead up to the occurrence of this error, it's of paramount importance that workarounds are implemented to ensure desired performance of Outlook in the long run.

Further Information and Manual Repair

While there are several ways to rectify this error, some of the most common ones are listed below as follows.
  • The most effective solution is the PST file repair tools available online. These tools use a complex algorithm and thoroughly scan the PST file and repair it as needed. This resolves the Thorconnwndclass error that one encounters in Outlook. Usually such software have an easy to use interface and can easily be used, without the need for the user to have a strong technical background. Another advantage of using these software available online is that they not only repair the file, but they often play a pivotal role in retrieving inaccessible or lost data.
Some other tips for manually resolving this problem are listed below as follows.
  • First and foremost, disable your Norton Antivirus program if it’s installed on your system. Now, open the Outlook application in Safe Mode. Since this problem may also be triggered by damaged or corrupt Outlook add-ins, it is strongly advised that you disable or uninstall them. Now, you will come across some .dat files. Rename them by changing the existing .dat files to new .dat.
  • Another useful approach is to employ the Inbox Repair tool offered by Outlook.
  • Finally, one can also use the scanpst.exe file to fix any problem or error that resides within the  Outlook application.
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How to Fix the EhRecvr.exe Error on Your PC

EhRecvr.exe Error Code - What is it?

EhRecvr.exe is an executable file located in a subfolder of C:\Windows (usually C:\WINDOWS). An executable file is denoted by the filename extension .exe. You should only run executable files from the publisher you trust because .exe files are prone to errors. Executable files can potentially change your computer settings and harm your computer.  These files can easily get corrupted. Similarly, when the EhRecvr.exe fails to run on the computer and gets corrupt, you experience an EhRecvr.exe error on your system. This error code may pop up while playing games on the PC or using any other program. EhRecvr.exe error may be displayed in any one of the following formats:
  • “ehRecvr.exe cannot be found."
  • “There was a problem starting [path]ehRecvr.exe. The specified module could not be found."
  • "Runtime Error. ehRecvr.exe pure virtual function call."
  • "This program can't start because ehRecvr.exe is missing from your computer."
  • "Unable to launch the software located at path: [path]ehRecvr.exe"
  • "This application requires the file ehRecvr.exe, which was not found on this system."
  • "ehRecvr.exe is missing."
  • "Access Violation File [path]ehRecvr.exe"

Solution

Restoro box imageError Causes

There are plenty of reasons why this error may occur these include:
  • EhRecvr.exe file is mistakenly deleted
  • EhRecvr.exe file is corrupted and damaged
  • Viral/Malware infection
  • Bad registry entries
  • Outdated drivers
Though this error code is not fatal but nonetheless it is advisable to fix it immediately because EhRecvr.exe error not just hampers your ability to run and access different programs on your system but it also triggers issues like viral infection and registry problems which if not resolved can put your big at greater risk like system failure, freeze, and crash.

Further Information and Manual Repair

To resolve the EhRecvr.exe error on your system, you don’t have to hire a professional and spend hundreds of dollars in repair. Here are the best and easy DIY methods that you can try to fix this error. To work around these methods you don’t need to be a technical whiz. Let’s get started:

Method 1 - Restore EhRecvr.exe from Recycle Bin

In the case of EhRecvr.exe file deletion, it is advisable to check the recycle bin. Search through the bin for the file. If you find it, then simply restore it, if not then if you have access to the internet, then download it from a trusted website.

Method 2 - Reinstall the Associated Software That Uses EhRecvr.exe File

If you receive this error when you want to use certain software on your PC, then try reinstalling that software again on your PC. This will be very helpful to obtain the EhRecvr.exe file that is not provided by Microsoft. To re-install, first, uninstall the program. Go to Add/Program in the control panel and find the program and then uninstall it. Once uninstalled, simply follow the same steps but this time round install the software. This will hopefully help resolve the EhRecvr.exe error code.

Method 3 - Update Drivers for Hardware Devices

Sometimes the error may pop up due to outdated drivers. If this is the cause then the best way to resolve the issue would be to update the driver. Use the wizard within the Device Manager to update the outdated drivers.

Method 4 - Scan for Viruses

Viruses and malware can disguise as executable files. These usually enter your PC through downloads from unreliable websites and phishing emails. In such an event, it is recommended to install a powerful antivirus. Scan your entire PC and remove all viruses to repair the issue.

Method  5 - Clean and Repair the Registry

Another method is to clean and repair the registry. If you don’t clean the registry regularly it may get accumulated with obsolete files and get corrupt. This may generate EhRecvr.exe error codes. To resolve, simply download Restoro. This is a user-friendly PC Fixer with a powerful registry cleaner. It scans for all registry errors, wipes out all the invalid entries and obsolete files and repairs corrupted DLL and .exe files in minutes. Click here to download Restoro and resolve the EhRecvr.exe error now!
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Word icon is not showing on .doc & .docx
Recently, a number of users reported seeing plain white icons on their “.docx” files instead of the Word icon. This kind of issue is mostly caused by a conflict with the default program settings in Windows which is why you may not see any Microsoft Word icon on your .docx files. So if you suddenly find that the Microsoft Word icon is either blank or missing and does not show properly on .doc and .docx document files of Office on your Windows 10 computer, then you can check out the potential solutions outlined below. Before you proceed, you can try to restart your computer as there are instances when a simple system restart can resolve some issues like this one. However, if it does not help, create a System Restore point first. This is to ensure that you can always undo the changes you are about to make in case something goes wrong. Once you have that covered, proceed to the following options.

Option 1 – Try to configure .docx files to open with “winword.exe”

You can try configuring the .docx files to open with the winword.exe in order to fix the problem.
  • Right-click on a .docx file and select the “Open with…” option.
  • After that, if a prompt appears with a message saying, “How do you want to open this file”, select the “More apps” option to proceed.
  • Next, scroll down and check the checkbox that says, “Always use this app to open .docx files” option.
  • Then click on the “Look for another app on this PC” link and choose the WINWORD.exe application from one of the following paths based on the installed Office version in your computer and click Open:
    • Word 2016 (64-bit): C:/Program Files/Microsoft Office/root/Office16
    • Word 2016 (32-bit): C:/Program Files (x86)/Microsoft Office/root/Office16
  • Now check if you can now see the Word icon on the .doc or .docx files.

Option 2 – Try changing the default Word icon via Registry Editor

  • Tap the Win + R keys to open the Run utility.
  • Then type “Regedit” in the field and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  • Next, navigate to this path located in the left pane: HKEY_CLASSES_ROOTWord.Document.12DefaultIcon
  • From there, double click on the default value at the right pane and based on the Word version you are using as well as the architecture (32 bit or 64 bit) and then copy-paste the corresponding value in the Value data box:
    • For Word 2016 (64-bit) keep it as C:/Program Files/Microsoft Office/root/Office16/wordicon.exe,13
    • For Word 2016 (32-bit) Keep it as C:/Program Files (x86)/Microsoft Office/root/Office16/wordicon.exe,13
  • Once you’re done, tap Enter and then close the Registry Editor.
  • Restart your computer and see if the problem’s fixed.

Option 3 – Try to rebuild the Icon cache

You may want to rebuild the Icon cache as it could also help fix the issue.
  • Tap Win + E to open File Explorer and then click Folder Options and click Views to show Hidden System Files.
  • After that, go to C:Users%username%AppDataLocal folder and look for a file named Iconcache.db and delete it.
  • Next, go to C:Users%username%AppDataLocalMicrosoftWindowsExplorer.
  • From there, look for the following files and delete them.
    • iconcache_32.db
    • iconcache_48.db
    • iconcache_96.db
    • iconcache_256.db
    • iconcache_1024.db
    • iconcache_1280.db
    • iconcache_1600.db
    • iconcache_1920.db
    • iconcache_2560.db
    • iconcache_exif.db
    • iconcache_idx.db
    • iconcache_sr.db
    • iconcache_wide.dd
    • iconcache_wide_alternate.db
  • Restart your computer. This will purge and rebuild the icon cache.

Option 4 – Try fixing Office apps

Fixing the Office apps can help you resolve the Word icon issue. All you have to do is open Settings > Apps. From the app list, look for the Microsoft Office Desktop apps and select it and then click on the Advanced options and click Fix. After that, wait until the process is completed and restart your PC. However, if the problem still persists, repeat the steps again but this time, click on Reset instead of Fix.

Option 5 – Try to repair Office Installation

If the options given above didn’t work, you can try to repair the Office installation and see if it can fix the problem.
  • Open Control Panel and click on Programs and Features.
  • Next, right-click on the Office program that you want to repair which in this case is, Word.
  • Select Change and click Repair > Continue. After that, Office will start to repair Microsoft Word.
  • Wait until the process is done and then reboot your computer.
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File is Too Large for the Destination Error
The file is too large for the destination file system is the error when you try to copy a file larger than 4GB on a drive formatted in the FAT32 file system. FAT32 is the old file system used in previous Windows versions and it was replaced by superior NTFS, altho FAT32 is still used because of its compatibility fact that it could be accessed in various operating systems its disadvantage among others is that it can not hold files larger than 4GB in size. This refers to the size of a single file, so if you have a file that is this large and when you try to copy or move it on a drive formatted in FAT32 you will get this message, and the operation will not be able to complete.

Format drive

In order to actually transfer the file in its glorious size, I am afraid that you will need to format destination drive in NTFS or if you have data on drive which you do not want to lose with formatting, use third-party software to convert file system from FAT32 to NTFS without losing data. I would recommend AOMEI partition assistant, it is a free and proven application letting you both manage your partitions and convert any one of them into another file system without data loss. You can get AOMEI here.

Split file

Another option if you are not keen on installing third-party tools or formating is to divide large files into smaller ones that are less than 4GB in size. You can use any archiving application since built-in Windows ZIP support will not let you split file into various different sizes. The best tool in my humble opinion is WinRAR, but you can choose any proven one. When file is split into parts less than 4GB in size, you will have no issues copying or move the file to the destination drive.
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A Guide to Fixing Error Code 39

Code 39 - What is it?

Code 39 is a device driver error code that pops up when the Windows operating system cannot load the driver for the hardware you want to use.

This hampers your ability to use the hardware properly. The error code is almost always presented in the following format:

“Windows cannot load the device driver for this hardware. The driver may be corrupted or missing.” Code 39

Error Causes

A device driver is a software program that tells the operating system how to control a particular hardware device. Each hardware device has a different driver.

There are separate device drivers for printers, CD-ROM readers, and keyboards, to name a few.

Many device drivers are already built into the operating system. But sometimes you will need to install a new device driver when you want to use a new piece of hardware device that the operating system is not familiar with, or does not anticipate.

Regardless of whether or not the drivers are already integrated into the operating system, you may still experience code 39, typically because of the corrupted or outdated drivers.

Outdated and corrupted drivers cause hardware malfunction and failure, which trigger device driver error codes like code 39. Other causes include incorrect registry values.

Further Information and Manual Repair

Below are some of the easiest and most effective methods to resolve Device Manager error code 39 on your PC.

To follow and implement these methods, you don’t require any technical knowledge or expertise. Simply follow these instructions to fix the error right away.

Method 1 - Fix with a Simple Reboot

There is a possibility that the error code 39 is caused by some fluke within the Device Manager or your BIOS.

If that’s the reason, then a simple PC reboot can resolve the issue immediately. Therefore, before you try anything, it is advisable to restart your system.

If it works, then that is great, but if it doesn’t, then don’t worry, try other methods given below to fix this problem successfully.

Method 2 - Uninstall and Reinstall Drivers

If the error code 39 is generated due to faulty or outdated drivers, then simply uninstall and remove them and then reinstall new driver versions. There are two ways to remove faulty drivers.

Method One

  • One is, to go to the start menu, click on Control Panel, and then Add/Remove Programs.
  • Remove the program and the driver you think is causing problems. This will thoroughly remove all traces of the faulty driver.
  • To reinstall, follow the same steps but this time install the new device driver version.

Method Two

  • The other way is to go to the start menu, type Device Manager in the search bar, and then press enter to continue.
  • In the Device Manager, find and locate the problematic device.
  • After that, double-click the category of device that you wish to uninstall. Let’s say, Windows is unable to load the graphics card driver.
  • This means you will have to click on the Display Adapter category in the Device Manager to uninstall the graphics card.
  • After you have successfully uninstalled, Windows will prompt you to confirm device removal.
  • Simply click OK to confirm and proceed. To activate the changes, restart your PC.
  • To reinstall, go to the Device Manager, click on the Action tab and then select the option ‘Scan for Hardware Changes.’

This method, although effective in resolving error code 39,  can be time-consuming. To avoid the hassle and save time, try method 3.

Method 3 - Update Drivers Automatically with DRIVERFIX

If you would like to read more helpful articles and tips about various software and hardware visit errortools.com daily.
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Why You Need Antivirus Software & How to Select the Right One

Anxiety from all these digital threats lurking everywhere? An antivirus program can help put your mind at ease.

What can a virus do to your device?

A virus is malicious software that can affect pretty much any device and does so in a variety of ways. Be it your computer, your phone or your smart lightbulb - as long as there’s access to the internet, malware can get to it.

How exactly does this kind of attack manifest itself? Well, there’s a wide variety of effects ranging from mild to severe. Among other things, they depend on which type of malware attacks your device - a virus, spyware, ransomware, adware or something else.

These are some of the things you can expect to happen:

  • Slow performance
  • System crashes
  • Theft of data and sensitive information
  • Connectivity issues
  • Constant browser redirects
  • Strange messages sent to your contacts 
  • Interference with files

It really can be the stuff of nightmares. So, if you want to sleep peacefully knowing that your devices are completely safe, you should definitely consider getting an antivirus.

P.S. don’t let its name fool you - an antivirus does indeed protect your devices against more than just viruses.

What is antivirus software exactly?

Antivirus software is designed to help you battle and ward off malware. Basically, it scans your device to detect any suspicious activity and offers tools to get rid of the culprit. 

At first, antiviruses were developed to fight against viruses only, but nowadays they cover a lot more ground. Here are some of the biggest benefits of getting yourself a powerful defender.

Advantages of antivirus software

1. It fights those pesky ads

Look, constant ads that pop up everywhere aren’t the absolute worst thing that can happen on your computer. If anything, they are annoying, like when you’re trying to sleep but that one fly in your room just won’t stop buzzing.

Now, there’s a free, well-established solution for that - installing an ad blocker. And we’re about a hundred and ten percent sure you’ve already done that on each and every browser you use.

However, “if I can’t see it, it doesn’t exist” isn’t the most ideal approach for your online safety. Ad blockers can’t block everything and they won’t protect you from potential adware. An antivirus on the other hand offers that layer of protection against malware snuck into pop-ups and spammy websites.

2. It protects you from hackers

Hackers don’t target government institutions only. They’ll target regular people too if they have something to gain.

Antivirus can protect you from hackers
Credit: Clint Patteron (Unsplash)

There are different types of hacking, such as phishing e-mails, transmission of malicious programs, credential reuse, denial of service and more. In any case, they take control of your device and hijack your data.

The good thing is that, as threats evolve, antiviruses evolve too and there are tons of quality programs on the market that can keep you secure for an affordable price.

3. It keeps your files and data safe

When malware enters your device, it can target pretty much any file and get access to any and all data.

Installing an antivirus program will make sure that every single file, new or old, is monitored at all times, warning you against threats immediately. That way, you can make sure to react before your other files become infected and data is lost or stolen.

Another great thing for data protection is that the best antivirus software normally comes with a password manager, so no one can use malware to steal your passwords.

4. It blocks all kinds of malware

As we already stated, malicious attacks can be performed in many ways and malware comes in in different shapes an sizes, such as:

  • Trojan horse
  • Spyware
  • Ransomware
  • Adware
  • Rootkit
  • RAT (remote access Trojan)
  • Keyloggers
  • Worms
  • Botnets
Illustration of a computer worm
Credit: Growtika (Unsplash)

Nowadays, antivirus software is designed to fight against all of these types. That’s why more often than not we hear the term 'antivirus' used interchangeably with 'anti-malware,' like in this article.

5. It keeps your children protected

You can’t keep your eyes on your kid every second of the day and you can’t protect them from everything. But at least you can limit their exposure to the threats they can encounter at every corner of the digital world.

An antivirus program will block harmful or suspicious websites and ads, which is great both for you and your children. To take it a step further, though, many such programs come with special parental controls and offer monitoring as well. It’s a great solution for keeping your kids safe online without sounding like the irritating, overbearing, controlling parent who “just doesn’t get it!”

How to pick one

There are definitely lots of different antivirus programs out there, both free and paid. We recommend you look for a paid option, since free ones are unfortunately a lot more susceptible to being compromised through malicious attacks.

Now, there are a few factors to consider when choosing the right software. If you use your PC for basic things then a basic antivirus will suffice. However, the more complex your use and the more sensitive the data you deal with, the stronger it needs to be.

It’s also crucial that you take into account the features it includes. As we already mentioned, some programs have additional security options. For example, depending on the package you select, Bitdefender provides:

  • Webcam and mic monitoring
  • Parental control
  • Firewall
  • VPN
  • Password management
  • Identity theft protection

Some are included in plans and some are separate products, so make sure to check out all the offers.

And don’t worry if you have multiple PCs or you’re looking for protection for your smartphone or tablet as well; Bitdefender has suitable solutions for your needs. Of course, you can also just pick their classic antivirus software if you’re not in need of advanced protection.

Another important point is how regularly the software is updated and enhanced. The more frequent the updates the better, as bugs can make the program more vulnerable. Other things we advise you consider are user-friendliness, impact on performance, reputation (user reviews especially) and, of course, price.

The bottom line

Fact is: anyone can be a malware victim. Don’t let it be you.

You can’t put a price on peace and security, so don’t be reluctant to pay for yours - especially since a lot of options out there are extremely affordable. Is $159.00 a year really too much to pay for cross-platform protection for up to 10 devices? We don’t think so.

Explore your options and protect your files and data before it’s too late.

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