The Internet is a haven of cast and immense information and software, all of which can easily be obtained by simply downloading it onto your computer. However, even though downloading files from the Internet have many advantages, there are just as many disadvantages. Before downloading any file to your computer, you should be aware of a few things – knowledge of which will only help you keep your computer safe from any virus threats.

First things first – look at the file size of the file that you want to download. For example, should you want to download freeware software from a web site and you know that the software file size should be around 12 or 13 MB, but upon closer inspection you see that the file size is 234 KB. This should sound off warning bells in your mind, as it is highly likely that this file size is in fact a virus or Trojan, due to the simple fact that the file size was just not right.

The next important thing to make sure is up and running before attempting a download is your firewall. If the files you have downloaded are malicious and aim to send privacy information to h, then your firewall should be able to prevent this from happening.

File extensions are also very important when downloading files from the Internet. File extensions that have .exe and are small (file size) tend to be of a malicious nature.
It is very important to ensure all your anti-virus software is up to date as well, before attempting a download session.

Important to bear in mind is that updates should be installed on a regular basis, as hackers are increasingly growing in knowledge and new ways to infiltrate computers, therefore by regularly updating your system, you will also be abreast of the latest in the world of safe computering.