regarding multiple anti-virus and anti-spy ware programs.

[KG]

since they're free, any reason not to have more than one to make sure you're covered?

[Kali]

1. you can and probably should have multiple protections BUT

not multiple anti-virus. They fight with each other. (and I only know that because of the great DU computer forum - check it out for lots more info http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topics&forum=242 )

[mwooldri]

2. Shouldn't have more than one of each running at a time:

i.e. only one anti-virus, one anti-spyware.

The phrase "too many cooks spoiling the broth" comes to mind.

If you end up in a case where you think you're virused and your regular anti-virus isn't picking up anything you can install extra scanners and use online scanners to see if it gets stuff your regular anti-v misses.

[KG]

3. well, i can set up the anti-virus to scan at different times

picked up something today that wouldn't let spybot s/d launch, so i d/l spyware blaster and that whacked it.

[pokerfan]

4. viruses are a different animal than malware

There's no problem with using multiple anti-malware programs; in fact it's often recommended. But multiple anti-virus programs can confuse each other.

[KG]

5. no prob, i can just whack one of the anti-v's.

thanks