Symantic Anti-Virus FAQ

What should I do if I can not open the file after downloading?
How do I manually update my virus definitions?
How do I disable Realtime Protection to install software?
How do I stop a full virus scan when it is running?
How does a dial-up user receive virus definition updates?
How can I do a free on-line virus and security check?
How do I find information on viruses, viruses hoaxes, and chain letters?


I cannot open the file after downloading. It asks me what program I want to use to open it, or there is no Program associated with the file.

If you are using Microsoft Internet Explorer, IE sometimes will not add the extension to the filename downloaded. You can right click on the file you downloaded, choose Rename, and add an .exe to the end of the filename.
(Example: SAVClient - should be SAVClient.exe)

How do I manually update my virus definitions?

Double click on the yellow shield icon that is in your task tray in the lower right hand corner of your Windows desktop. The Symantec Anti-Virus Corporate Edition program window will open, and you will see the Virus Definition File box with a date listed next to Version. If this date is older than one week, you should click on the Live Update button while connected to the Internet in order to download the latest virus definition files. After the download is complete, the date of the virus definition file will be updated the next time you click on the yellow shield icon.

How do I disable Realtime Protection to install software?

Realtime Protection can be disabled by right clicking on the yellow shield in the lower right of the desktop. Then click the checked area beside “enable Realtime Protection”. To re-enable the Realtime Protection, repeat this process and it will restart.

You will have 30 minutes to work while Realtime Protection is disabled. After 30 minutes, the Realtime Protection will re-start automatically; however if you complete your work in less then 30 minutes , be sure to restart Realtime Protection yourself so that your machine will be protected as soon as possible. Do not rely on the system to do it for you. The only protection you receive is through the Realtime Protection service.

How do I stop a full virus scan when it is running?

When the scan starts, a window will appear on the desk top. Click the little “x” in the upper right of the window, and you will be prompted to stop the scan.

How does a dial-up user receive virus definition updates?

The user will need to manually update the definitions to keep them up-to-date. The procedure for how to update the definitions manually can be seen here. How do I manually update my virus definitions?

How can I do a free on-line virus and security check?

Symantec has a free Security Check service that is designed to help you understand your computer's exposure to online security intrusions and virus threats.

How can I find information on viruses, virus hoaxes, and chain letters?

Virus hoaxes are becoming as frequent as real viruses. Hoaxes that are especially well written may circulate for years after first appearance. Hoaxes usually cause unnecessary distress. Therefore, do not circulate virus alert messages to your friends and colleagues unless the virus is confirmed by a reliable source. Otherwise you will perpetuate the hoax, doing your friends and colleagues a disservice. If you receive a virus alert though e-mail, check out some of these web sites for information:

Virus Databases

Internet Hoaxes

CIAC Internet Hoaxes

 

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