Microsoft's Free Virus Checker

This is a check list. You absolutely MUST have these things installed and working on your computer to operate both effectively and safely in our current environment. All these downloads are free but you are welcome to use paid for alternatives.

All important Microsoft Updates

It is really most important to keep your 'browser' updated. (The browser is the software used to view the Internet.) If you don't websites will not look right and your security could be compromised. If you are an Explorer user just click the link below.

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AVG Anti-virus

This is a good quality free non-commercial version which can be set to update automatically. The downside is that it is extremely difficult to get through all the offers for the paid for version.

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Defender - Windows free Sypware protection

This protects your computer from 'dataminers' which eventually infect all computers. Dataminers send messages back to the organisations which put them on your computer. It is free. An important one click download.

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Directx

You will need this to run lots of Internet graphics packages that you will eventually come across. Boring but you have to have it.

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Getting Stuck - or fixing a problem

If you need help either installing software or something will not work it is work clicking below to got to the Microsoft support centre. The link below and enter your query. Good luck!

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JAVA - You need it!

Newer machines may not have the all-important JAVA installed. If a virtual tour programme or some other interesting website does not work, click the heading and then the 'Download' when the JAVA website comes up . If you get a red message you will probably find that you also need Flash so click that download as well. Both are free and crucial!

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