User manual

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Free Antivirus

User Manual

Summary of content (189 pages)

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Free Antivirus User Manual
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Introduction Trademarks and Copyright Trademarks Windows is a registered trademark of the Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Protected trademarks are not marked as such in this manual. This does not mean, however, that they may be used freely. Copyright information Code provided by third party providers was used for Avira Free Antivirus.
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Introduction Table of Contents 1. Introduction ................................................................................... 9 1.1 2. Product information ...................................................................... 11 2.1 Delivery scope ..................................................................................................................... 11 2.2 System requirements ..........................................................................................................
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Introduction 4. 3.7.3 Uninstalling Avira Free Antivirus under Windows XP ..................................................................30 3.7.4 Uninstalling Avira SearchFree Toolbar.............................................................................................30 Overview of Avira Free Antivirus..................................................... 34 4.1 4.1.1 Control Center .............................................................................................................
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Introduction 6. 7. 5.3 Real-Time Protection........................................................................................................... 67 5.4 Web Protection .................................................................................................................... 68 System Scanner ........................................................................... 71 6.1 System Scanner ..................................................................................................
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Introduction 7.6.4 Download manual ................................................................................................................................ 109 7.6.5 License management.......................................................................................................................... 109 7.6.6 Recommend product ........................................................................................................................... 110 7.6.7 Send feedback .............
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Introduction 10.7.4 WMI .......................................................................................................................................................... 154 10.7.5 Events ...................................................................................................................................................... 154 10.7.6 Reports ...........................................................................................................................................
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Introduction 16. Viruses and more ....................................................................... 179 16.1 Threat categories............................................................................................................... 179 16.2 Viruses and other malware ............................................................................................... 182 17. Info and Service ......................................................................... 187 17.1 Contact address........
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Introduction 1. Introduction Your Avira product protects your computer against viruses, worms, Trojans, adware and spyware and other risks. In this manual these are referred to as viruses or malware (harmful software) and unwanted programs. The manual describes the program installation and operation. For further options and information, please visit our website: http://www.avira.
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Introduction Emphasis Explanation Italics File name or path data. Displayed software interface elements (e.g. window section or error message). Bold Clickable software interface elements (e.g. menu item, navigation area, option box or button). Avira Free Antivirus - User Manual (Status: 16 Dec.
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Product information 2. Product information This chapter contains all information relevant to the purchase and use of your Avira product:  see Chapter: Delivery scope  see Chapter: System requirements  see Chapter: Licensing and Upgrade Avira products are comprehensive and flexible tools you can rely on to protect your computer from viruses, malware, unwanted programs and other dangers. Please note the following information: Warning Loss of valuable data usually has dramatic consequences.
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Product information  Web Protection (for Avira Free Antivirus users, only in combination with Avira SearchFree) for monitoring data and files transferred from the Internet using the HTTP protocol (monitoring of ports 80, 8080, 3128)  Avira Social Network Protection, a monitoring tool, informs parents of their children's online activities. It checks their social network accounts for comments, photos etc.
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Product information  At least 150 MB of free hard disk memory space (more if using quarantine for temporary storage)  At least 1024 MB RAM under Windows 8, Windows 7  At least 512 MB RAM under Windows XP Other requirements  For the program installation: Administrator rights  For all installations: Windows Internet Explorer 6.0 or higher  Internet connection where appropriate (see Preparing for installation) 2.2.
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Product information The User Account Control offers more protection for users who are logged in as administrators. Thus an administrator only has the privileges of a normal user at first. Actions for which administrator rights are required are clearly marked by the operating system with an information icon. In addition, the user must explicitly confirm the required action.
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Installation and uninstallation 3. Installation and uninstallation This chapter contains information relating to the installation of Avira Free Antivirus.  Preparing for installation  Installing downloaded software  Removing incompatible software  Choosing an installation type  Installing Avira Free Antivirus  Changing the installation  Uninstalling Avira Free Antivirus 3.
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Installation and uninstallation Select the product and click Download. Save the downloaded file on your system. Double-click the installation file avira_free_antivirus_en.exe. If the User Account Control window appears, click Yes. The program scans for incompatible software (more information here: Removing incompatible software). The installation file is extracted. The installation routine is started. Continue with Selecting an installation type.
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Installation and uninstallation Related Topics:  see Performing an Express Installation  see Performing a Custom Installation 3.4.1 Performing an Express Installation The Express installation is the recommended setup routine.  It installs all the standard components of Avira Free Antivirus. The Avira recommended security level settings are used.
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Installation and uninstallation 3.4.2 Performing a Custom Installation The Custom installation enables you to configure your installation. This is only recommended for advanced users who are well acquainted with matters of hard- and software as well as security issues.  You can choose to install individual program components.  A target folder can be selected for the program files to be installed.  You can disable Create a desktop icon and program group in the Start menu.
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Installation and uninstallation Click Browse and navigate to the location where you want to install Avira Free Antivirus. Select the folder where you want to install Avira Free Antivirus in the Choose Destination Folder window. Click Next. 3.5.2 Installing Avira SearchFree Toolbar At the end of the setup you can install the Avira SearchFree Toolbar. Avira SearchFree Toolbar includes two main components: Avira SearchFree and the Toolbar.
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Installation and uninstallation If you do not wish to install the Avira SearchFree Toolbar unmark the checkboxes of the options Set and keep Ask as my default search provider and Set and keep Avira SearchFree (avira.search.ask.com) as my browser homepage and the browser new tabs page. If you decline, only the Avira SearchFree Toolbar setup is aborted. The installation of Avira Free Antivirus, however will be completed. 3.5.
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Installation and uninstallation Select or deselect components from the list in the Install components dialog.  Avira Free Antivirus This contains all components required for successful installation of Avira Free Antivirus.      Real-Time Protection The Avira Real-Time Protection runs in the background. It monitors and repairs, if possible, files during operations such as open, write and copy in "on-access mode". On access mode means that, whenever a user carries out a file operation (e.g.
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Installation and uninstallation  the browser cache for display in the web browser, meaning that an on-access scan as performed by Avira Real-Time Protection is not possible. This could allow viruses and unwanted programs to access your computer system. Web Protection is what is known as an HTTP proxy which monitors the ports used for data transfer (80, 8080, 3128) and scans the transferred data for viruses and unwanted programs.
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Installation and uninstallation 3.5.5 Configuring the heuristic detection level (AHeAD) Avira Free Antivirus contains a very powerful tool in form of Avira AHeAD (Advanced Heuristic Analysis and Detection ) technology. This technology uses pattern recognition techniques, so it can detect unknown (new) malware from having analyzed other malware previously. Select a detection level in the Configure AHeAD dialog box and click Next.
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Installation and uninstallation A number of threat categories is already pre-selected by default. Where appropriate, activate further threat categories in the dialog box Select extended threat categories. If you change your mind, you can revert to the recommended values by clicking the Default values button. Continue the installation by clicking Next. 3.5.
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Installation and uninstallation If you want to perform a quick system scan, leave the Quick system scan option activated. Click Next. Complete the configuration by clicking Finish. If you have not deactivated the Quick system scan option, the System Scanner performs a quick system scan. 3.6 Changing the installation If you wish to add or remove modules of the current installation, you can do this without having to uninstall Avira Free Antivirus.
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Installation and uninstallation If you wish to add or remove modules of the current installation, you can use the option Uninstall Programs in the Windows control panel to Change/Uninstall programs. Right-click on the screen. The All apps symbol appears. Click on the symbol and look in the Apps - Windows System section for Control Panel. Double-click the Control Panel symbol. Click Programs - Uninstall a program. Click Programs and Features - Uninstall a program.
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Installation and uninstallation If you wish to add or remove modules of the current installation, you can use the option Add or Remove Programs in the Windows control panel to Change/Remove programs. Open the Control Panel via the Windows Start menu. Double click on Programs and Features. Select Avira Free Antivirus and click Change. In the Welcome dialog of the program, select the option Modify. You will be guided through the installation changes.
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Installation and uninstallation Note If you uninstall the Avira SearchFree Toolbar, Web Protection is also uninstalled. Related Topics: Choosing installation components 3.7 Uninstalling Avira Free Antivirus Should you ever feel the need to uninstall Avira Free Antivirus, here is how:  Uninstalling Avira Free Antivirus under Windows 8  Uninstalling Avira Free Antivirus under Windows 7  Uninstalling Avira Free Antivirus under Windows XP 3.7.
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Installation and uninstallation If a dialog box appears recommending that your computer be restarted, click Yes to confirm. Avira Free Antivirus is now uninstalled and all directories, files and registry entries for the program are deleted when your computer is restarted. Note The Avira SearchFree Toolbar is not included in the uninstallation program and must be uninstalled separately. Note If you uninstall the Avira SearchFree Toolbar, Web Protection is also uninstalled. 3.7.
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Installation and uninstallation Note The Avira SearchFree Toolbar is not included in the uninstallation program and must be uninstalled separately. Note If you uninstall the Avira SearchFree Toolbar, Web Protection is also uninstalled. 3.7.3 Uninstalling Avira Free Antivirus under Windows XP To uninstall Avira Free Antivirus from your computer use the option Change or Remove Programs in the Windows Control Panel. Open the Control Panel via the Windows Start > Settings menu.
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Installation and uninstallation  Uninstalling Avira SearchFree Toolbar under Windows 8  Uninstalling Avira SearchFree Toolbar under Windows 7  Uninstalling Avira SearchFree Toolbar under Windows XP  Uninstalling Avira SearchFree Toolbar via the web browser  Uninstalling Avira SearchFree Toolbar via Add-On Manager Note If you uninstall the Avira SearchFree Toolbar, Web Protection is also uninstalled.
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Installation and uninstallation Avira SearchFree Toolbar plus Web Protection is uninstalled and all directories, files and registry entries for the Avira SearchFree Toolbar plus Web Protection are deleted when your computer is restarted. Uninstalling Avira SearchFree Toolbar under Windows XP To uninstall your Avira SearchFree Toolbar: Close your web browser. Open the Control Panel via the Windows Start > Settings menu. Double click on Add or Remove Programs.
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Installation and uninstallation Firefox Click Tools > Add-ons > Extensions. From there you can manage the Avira Addon: activate or deactivate the toolbar and uninstall. Internet Explorer Go to Manage Add-ons > Toolbars und Extensions. Here you can either activate and deactivate your Avira SearchFree Toolbar, or uninstall it. Google Chrome Click Options > Extensions and manage easily your toolbar: activate, deactivate or uninstall it. Avira Free Antivirus - User Manual (Status: 16 Dec.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus 4. Overview of Avira Free Antivirus This chapter contains an overview of the functionality and operation of your Avira product.  see Chapter User interface and operation  see Chapter Avira SearchFree Toolbar  see Chapter How to...? 4.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus The Control Center window is divided into three areas: The Menu bar, the Navigation area and the detail window Status:  Menu bar: In the Control Center menu bar, you can access general program functions and information on the program.  Navigation area: In the navigation area, you can easily swap between the individual sections of the Control Center.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Close the Control Center via the menu command Close in the menu File or by clicking on the close tab in the Control Center. Operate Control Center To navigate in the Control Center Select an activity in the navigation bar. The activity opens and other sections appear. The first section of the activity is selected and displayed in the view. If necessary, click another section to display this in the detail window.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus  INTERNET PROTECTION: In this section you will find the components to protect your computer system against viruses and malware from the Internet, and against unauthorized network access.    CHILD PROTECTION: In this section you will find the components to ensure a safe Internet experience for your children.   Social Networks: This section redirects you to the Social Network Protection application.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus The Configuration opens a dialog box: You can save your configuration settings via the OK or Apply buttons, delete your settings by clicking the Cancel button or restore your default configuration settings using the Default values button. You can select individual configuration sections in the left-hand navigation bar. Accessing the Configuration You have several options for accessing the configuration:  via the Windows control panel.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Configuration operation Navigate in the configuration window as you would in Windows Explorer: Click an entry in the tree structure to display this configuration section in the detail window. Click the plus symbol in front of an entry to expand the configuration section and display configuration subsections in the tree structure. To hide configuration subsections, click on the minus symbol in front of the expanded configuration section.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus    Real-Time Protection: Configuration of on-access scan         Download via web server Proxy settings Web Protection: Configuration of Web Protection        Scan options Action on detection Further actions On-access scan exceptions On-access scan heuristics Report function setting Update: Configuration of the update settings   System scan heuristics Report function setting Scan options, enabling and disabling the Web Protection Action on dete
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Icon Description Avira Real-Time Protection is enabled Avira Real-Time Protection is disabled The tray icon displays the status of the Real-Time Protection service. Central functions of your Avira product can be quickly accessed via the context menu of the tray icon. To open the context menu, click the tray icon with the right-hand mouse button. Entries in the context menu  Enable Real-Time Protection: Enables or disables the Avira Real-Time Protection.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus 4.2 Avira SearchFree Toolbar Avira SearchFree Toolbar includes two main components: Avira SearchFree and the Toolbar. The Avira SearchFree Toolbar is installed as an add-on. When the browser is first accessed (in Firefox and Internet Explorer) a message will pop-up, asking you for permission to install the toolbar. You will have to accept in order to complete a successful installation of Avira SearchFree Toolbar.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Web Protection You can use the following icons and messages to identify which actions you need to take to protect your PC: Icon Status display Description Web Protection If you move the cursor over the icon, the following message appears: Avira Web Protection is active. Your browsing is protected. No further action is necessary. Web Protection is inactive If you move the cursor over the icon, the following message appears: Avira Web Protection is off.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Widgets Avira SearchFree contains three widgets with the most important functions for the nowadays Internet web browsing: Facebook, E-mail and Browser Security. Facebook This function allows you to receive all the messages from Facebook and to be always updated. Email If you click the email symbol in the toolbar, a dropdown list will be shown. You can choose between the most commonly used email providers.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Icon Status display Description Safe A green check mark for safe websites. Low risk A yellow exclamation mark for websites representing a low risk. High risk A red stop sign for websites representing a high risk to your security. Unknown A grey question mark will appear when the status is unknown. Verifying This sign will appear while verifying the status of a website.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Toolbar options Search Avira search engine In the Avira search engine menu, you can select which search engine to use for the search. Search engines are available for the USA, Brazil, Germany, Spain, Europe, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Russia and the United Kingdom. Open searches in In the Open searches in option menu, you can select where the search result should be displayed; in the Current window, in a New window or on a New tab.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Uninstall You can also uninstall Avira SearchFree Toolbar directly in Internet Explorer: Uninstallation via the web browser About Click on About to display which version of Avira SearchFree Toolbar is installed.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus that of your program. If the toolbar is not available in your language, the default language is English. Show button text labels Disable the Show button text labels option if you want to hide the text next to the Avira SearchFree Toolbar icons. Clear history Enable the Clear history option if you do not want to save previous searches and want to clear the history immediately.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Show/ Hide the Avira SearchFree Toolbar Click here to hide or show Avira SearchFree Toolbar on your web browser. 4.2.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus     Daily Weekly Interval Single Note We recommend regular automatic updates. The recommended update interval is: 6 hours. Where appropriate, specify a date according to the selection. Where appropriate, select additional options (availability depends on type of job):  Repeat job if time has expired Past jobs are performed that could not be performed at the required time, for example because the computer was switched off. Click Next.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus 4.3.2 Start a manual update You have various options for starting an update manually: When an update is started manually, the virus definition file and scan engine are always updated. To start an update of your Avira product manually: With the right-hand mouse button, click the Avira tray icon in the taskbar. A context menu appears. Select Start update. The Updater dialog box appears. - OR In the Control Center, select Status.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Depending on the operating system, various icons are available for starting a scan profile:  In Windows XP: This icon starts the scan via a scan profile.  As of Windows Vista: As of Microsoft Windows Vista, the Control Center only has limited rights at the moment, e.g. for access to directories and files. Certain actions and file accesses can only be performed in the Control Center with extended administrator rights.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus When the scan is completed, the results are displayed. 4.3.5 Scan for viruses and malware via the context menu To scan for viruses and malware systematically via the context menu: Click with the right-hand mouse button (e.g. in Windows Explorer, on the desktop or in an open Windows directory) on the file you want to scan. The Windows Explorer context menu appears. Select Scan selected files with Avira in the context menu.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus  Single Where appropriate, specify a date according to the selection. Where appropriate, select the following additional options (availability depends on job type): Repeat job if the time has already expired Past jobs are performed that could not be performed at the required time, for example because the computer was switched off. Click Next. The dialog box Selection of the display mode appears.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Go to Control Center and select the section PC PROTECTION > System Scanner. Predefined scan profiles appear. Select the predefined scan profile Scan for Rootkits and active malware. Where appropriate, highlight other nodes and directories to be scanned by clicking the check box of the directory level. Click the icon (Windows XP: or as of Windows Vista: ). The Luke Filewalker window appears and a system scan is started.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Automatic In automatic action mode, when a virus or unwanted program is detected the action you selected in this area is executed automatically. In interactive action mode, you can react to detected viruses and unwanted programs by selecting an action for the infected object in the alert and executing the selected action by clicking Confirm.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Always ignore Action option for Real-Time Protection detections: No further action is taken by RealTime Protection. Access to the file is permitted. All further access to this file is permitted and no further notifications will be provided until the computer is restarted or the virus definition file is updated. Warning This could result in loss of data and damage to the operating system! Only select the Always ignore option in exceptional cases.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus If you want to rescan a file: Scanning a file is recommended if the virus definition file of your Avira product has been updated and a false positive report is suspected. This enables you to confirm a false positive with a rescan and restore the file. Highlight the file and click on . The file is scanned for viruses and malware using the system scan settings.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Note You can only upload one file at a time. If you want to export the properties of a quarantined object to a text file: Highlight the quarantined object and click on . The text file quarantaene - Notepad opens containing the data from the selected quarantined object. Save the text file. You can also restore the files in quarantine (see Chapter: Quarantine: Restore the files in quarantine). 4.3.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus Note Emails and email attachments can only be restored using the option file extension is *.eml. if the To restore a file to its original location: Highlight the file and click the icon (Windows XP: , as of Windows Vista ). This option is not available for emails. Note Emails and email attachments can only be restored using the option file extension is *.eml. if the A message appears asking if you want to restore the file. Click Yes.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus You can scan files in quarantine with the Avira System Scanner (see Chapter: Quarantine: Handling quarantined files (*.qua)). 4.3.12 Amend or delete file type in a scan profile To stipulate additional file types to be scanned or exclude specific file types from the scan in a scan profile (only possible for manual selection ): In the Control Center, go to the PC PROTECTION > System Scanner section.
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Overview of Avira Free Antivirus 4.3.14 Filter events Events that have been generated by program components of your Avira product are displayed in the Control Center under ADMINISTRATION > Events (analogous to the event display of your Windows operating system).
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Detection 5. Detection 5.1 Overview When a virus is detected, your Avira can automatically execute certain actions or respond interactively. In interactive action mode, a dialog opens when a virus is detected in which you can control or initiate the subsequent handling of the virus (delete, ignore, etc). There is an option in automatic mode for displaying an alert when a virus is detected. The action that was automatically executed is displayed in the message.
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Detection 5.2.1 Alert 5.2.2 Detection, Errors, Warnings Detailed information, action options for the detected viruses and messages will be displayed in the Detection, Errors and Warnings tabs:  Detection:    Object: File name of the affected file Detection: Name of the virus or unwanted program Action: Selected action with which the affected file is to be handled You can choose other actions for dealing with the malware from the context menu associated with the displayed action.
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Detection affected file and full path, name of the virus and action that is executed with the Apply Now button. Note The default action of the System Scanner is displayed as the action to be executed. The default action of the System Scanner for handling affected files is to move the relevant files to quarantine. 5.2.
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Detection Ignore If this option is enabled, access to the file is allowed and the file is left as it is. Always ignore Action option for Real-Time Protection detections: No further action is taken by RealTime Protection. Access to the file is permitted. All further access to this file is permitted and no further notifications will be provided until the computer is restarted or the virus definition file is updated.
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Detection This page of the online help is opened via this button or link. Warning Only execute the Cancel action in exceptional cases. The affected files remain active on your workstation after you cancel! It may cause serious damage on your workstation! 5.2.6 Special features when malware is detected while Web Protection is inactive If you have disabled the Web Protection, the System Scanner reports active malware it has detected via a slide-up while scanning the system.
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Detection In interactive mode you have the following options: Remove The affected file is transferred to the System Scanner component and deleted by the System Scanner. No further message appears. Details The affected file is transferred to the System Scanner component. The System Scanner opens a window containing notification of the detection and various options for managing the affected file. Note Please note the information on virus management under Detection > System Scanner.
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Detection Alert Detection, Errors, Warnings Messages and detailed information relating to the viruses detected are displayed in the Detection, Errors and Warnings tabs:  Detection: URL and the name of the detected virus or unwanted program  Error: Messages about errors that occurred during the Web Protection scan  Alerts: Warnings relating to the viruses that were detected Possible actions Note If a detection is a heuristic hit (HEUR/), an unusual runtime packer (PCK/) or a file with a hidden fil
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Detection directly removed (deleted) from your computer. The file can be recovered at any time with the aid of the quarantine manager. Deny access The website requested from the web server and/or any data or files transferred are not sent to your web browser. An error message to notify you that access has been denied is displayed in the web browser. Web Protection logs the detection to the report file if the report function is activated.
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System Scanner 6. System Scanner 6.1 System Scanner With the System Scanner component, you can carry out targeted scans (on-demand scans) for viruses and unwanted programs. The following options are available for scanning for infected files:  System scan via context menu The system scan via the context menu (right-hand mouse button - entry Scan selected files with Avira) is recommended if, for example, you wish to scan individual files and directories.
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System Scanner When the scan is complete, its results (statistics), alerts and error messages are displayed in a new dialog box. 6.2.
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System Scanner  The program will be ended!  The scan has finished Last object: Name and path of the file that is currently being scanned or that was most recently scanned Last detection: There are various messages for the last detection:  No detection!  Name of the most recently detected virus or unwanted program Scanned files: Number of scanned files Scanned directories: Number of scanned directories Scanned archives: Number of scanned archives Used time: Duration of the system scan Scanned: Pe
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System Scanner Buttons and links Button / Link Description With this link - and with an active Internet connection - you can access an Internet page with further information on this virus or unwanted program. This page of the online help is opened via this button or link. Stop The scan process is stopped. Pause The scan will be interrupted and can be continued by clicking on the button Resume. Resume The interrupted scan will be continued. End The System Scanner is closed.
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System Scanner Report The report file of the scan will be shown. 6.2.
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System Scanner Repaired: Number of repaired files Wiped: Number of overwritten files Deleted: Number of deleted files Moved: Number of files that are moved to quarantine Buttons and links Button / Link Description This page of the online help is opened via this button or link. Close The summary window is closed. Report The report file of the scan will be shown. Avira Free Antivirus - User Manual (Status: 16 Dec.
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Control Center 7. Control Center 7.1 Control Center Overview The Control Center is an information, configuration and management center. In addition to the sections that can be selected individually, it offers a large number of options that can be accessed from the menu bar. Menu bar All functions of the Control Center are contained in the menu bar.
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Control Center  Configuration (F8) Update  Start update...  Manual update... Help  Topics  Help me  Forum  Download manual  License management  Recommend product  Send feedback  Show notifier again  About Avira Free Antivirus Note You can activate the keyboard navigation in the menu bar with the help of the [ALT] key. If navigation is activated, you can move within the menu with the arrow keys. With the Return key you activate the active menu item.
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Control Center  Avira Android Security ADMINISTRATION  Quarantine  Scheduler  Reports  Events Navigation description  Status: Clicking on the Status bar gives you an overview of the product's functionality and performance (see Status).   PC PROTECTION: In this section you will find the components for checking the files on your computer system for viruses and malware.     The FireWall section enables you to configure the basic settings for the FireWall.
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Control Center   Avira Android Security manages all your android-based devices. ADMINISTRATION: In this section you will find tools for isolating and managing suspicious or infected files, and for planning recurring tasks.     The Quarantine section contains the so-called quarantine manager. This is the central point for files already placed in quarantine or for suspect files that you would like to place in quarantine.
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Control Center  PC Protection: Real-Time Protection, Last scan, Last update, Upgrade  Internet Protection: Web Protection, FireWall, Experts Market Note The User Account Control (UAC) will ask for your permission to enable or disable the Real-Time Protection and Web Protection services in operating systems as of Windows Vista.
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Control Center Icon Status Option Description Activated Deactivate The Real-Time Protection service is active, i.e. your system is continually monitored for viruses and unwanted programs. Note You can disable the Real-Time Protection service. However, please note that if Real-Time Protection is disabled you are no longer protected from viruses and unwanted programs. All files can pass through the system unnoticed and possibly cause damage.
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Control Center Service stopped Start service The Real-Time Protection service is stopped. Warning No scan is performed for viruses and unwanted programs. All files can pass through the system unnoticed. You are not protected against viruses and unwanted programs. Note In order to be protected against viruses and unwanted programs again, please click the ON/OFF button next to Real-Time Protection in the PC Protection area. The current status should be displayed in green color, meaning Activated.
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Control Center System scan Option Description Not performed No complete system check has been executed since installation. Scan system Warning The status of the system is unchecked. There is the possibility that viruses or unwanted programs are to be found on your computer. Note To check your computer, please click on the Scan system link. Date of last system scan, e.g. 09/18/2011 Scan system Unknown Help You performed a complete system scan on the specified date.
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Control Center Icon Status Option Description Date of last update, e.g. 07/18/2011 Start update The program has been updated during the last 24 hours. Date of last update, e.g. 07/18/2011 Start update Note You can update your Avira product to the latest version via the Start update button. 24 hours have already passed since the update but you are still within the update reminder cycle you chose. This depends on the setting in the configuration.
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Control Center Upgrade In this field you can buy the pay version of the Avira product. Internet Protection Information on the current status of the service protecting your computer against viruses and malware from the Internet, is displayed in this section.  FireWall: The service monitors the communication channels to and from your computer.
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Control Center Icon Status Process status Option Meaning OK Activated Deactivate All services for Internet Protection are active. Note You can deactivate a service by clicking the ON/OFF button. Note, however, that you are no longer fully protected against viruses and malware once a service has been deactivated. Restricted Deactivated Activate A service is deactivated, i.e. the service has been started but is not active. Warning Your computer system is not being fully monitored.
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Control Center Warning Service stopped Start service A service has been stopped Warning Your computer system is not being fully monitored. There is a possibility that viruses and unwanted programs can access your computer system. Note Click the ON/OFF button to start the service so that your computer system is monitored. The service is started and activated. Unknown Help This status is displayed when an unknown error occurs. In this case, please get in touch with our Support. 7.3.
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Control Center Predefined profiles Predefined scan profiles are available if required. Note These profiles are read-only and cannot be altered or deleted. To adapt a profile to your requirements, select the folder Manual selection. Note The scanning options for the predefined profiles can be set in Configuration > System Scanner > Scan > Files. You can adapt these settings to your requirements. Local Drives All local drives on your system are scanned for viruses or unwanted programs.
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Control Center Note Under Windows, "My Documents" is a directory in the profile of the user that is used as the default location for documents that have been saved. The default setting for the directory is C:\Documents and Settings\[user name]\My Documents. Active Processes All current processes are scanned for viruses or unwanted programs. Scan for Rootkits and active malware The computer is scanned for rootkits and active (running) malware programs. All running processes are checked.
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Control Center Toolbar Icon Description Display report file The report file of the Real-Time Protection is displayed. Displayed information Last file found Shows the name and location of the file last found by the Real-Time Protection. Last virus or unwanted program found Gives the name of the last virus or unwanted program found. Icon/link Description Click the icon or link to display detailed information about the virus or unwanted program if an Internet connection is present.
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Control Center Number of deleted files Shows the number of files deleted so far. Number of repaired files Shows the number of files repaired so far. Number of moved files Shows the number of files moved so far. Number of renamed files Shows the number of files renamed so far. 7.3.5 FireWall Windows Firewall (as of Windows 7) Avira manages the Windows Firewall from the Control and Configuration Center.
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Control Center  careless, potentially reputation-damaging activities. Avira Social Network Protection can monitor the following social networks:  Facebook  MySpace  Twitter  Google+  Formspring Note To enable monitoring of any of your children's accounts you will need either their approval or their username and password for the respective account. Further information: Creating a Social Network Protection account Logging into your Social Network Protection account 7.3.
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Control Center Note To move objects to the Quarantine manager, select the relevant option for quarantine in the Configuration under System Scanner - Scan > Action on detection if you are working in automatic mode. Alternatively you can select the relevant quarantine option in interactive mode. Toolbar, shortcuts and context menu Icon Shortcut Description F2 Rescan object(s) A selected object is scanned again for viruses and unwanted programs. The settings of the on-demand scan are used for this.
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Control Center F3 Restore object(s) A selected object is restored. Hereafter the object is placed in its original location. Warning Enormous damage in the system due to viruses and unwanted programs! If you restore files: ensure that only files that were able to be cleaned by another scan are restored. (Windows Vista) Note As of Windows Vista, you must have administrator rights to restore objects. F6 Restore object(s) to... A selected object can be restored at a location defined by you.
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Control Center Ins Add file to quarantine If you regard a file as suspicious, you can add it to the quarantine manager manually with this option. If appropriate upload the file to an Avira Malware Research Center web server for investigation using the Send object option. F4 Send object(s) The object is uploaded to an Avira Malware Research Center web server for investigation by the Avira Malware Research Center.
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Control Center When executing the action Display properties multiple objects cannot be selected. Multiple selections are not possible with the Send object action, as only one file can be uploaded at a time. Table Status An object placed in quarantine can have different statuses: Icon Description No virus or unwanted program was found, the object is "clean". A virus or unwanted program was found. If a suspect file was added to the quarantine manager with the option Add file, it has this warning icon.
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Control Center Restored YES/ NO YES: The selected object has been restored. NO: The selected object has not been restored. Uploaded to Avira YES/ NO YES: The object has already been uploaded to an Avira Malware Research Center web server for investigation by the Avira Malware Research Center. NO: The object has not yet been uploaded to an Avira Malware Research Center web server for investigation by the Avira Malware Research Center.
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Control Center Toolbar, shortcuts and context menu Icon Shortcut Description Ins Insert new job Creates a new job. A wizard clearly guides you through the necessary settings. Return Properties Opens a dialog box with more information on the selected job. F2 Edit job Opens the wizard to create and alter a job. Del Delete job Deletes the selected jobs from the list. Display report file The report file of the Scheduler is displayed. F3 Start job Start a marked job from the list.
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Control Center Icon Description The job is an update job. The job is a scan job. Name Name of the job. Action Indicates whether the job is a scan or an update. Frequency Indicates how often and when the job is started. Display mode The following display modes are available: Invisible: The job is performed in the background and is not visible. This applies to scanning jobs and update jobs. Minimize: The job window only displays a progress bar. Maximize: The job window is completely visible.
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Control Center  a timed update via the Internet For both types of jobs you must enter  the name and the description of the job  when the job should be started  how often the job should be performed  the display mode of the job Frequency of the job Frequency of the job Description Immediately Job is started immediately after ending the planning wizard. Daily Job is started daily at a certain time, e.g. 22:00.
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Control Center Shut down computer if job is done The computer is shut down when the job is finished. Scan jobs can be displayed minimized and maximized. Note With a scan job, it is possible to select pre-defined profiles. 7.3.10 Reports The Reports section enables you to access the results of actions performed by the program. Toolbar, shortcuts and context menu Icon Shortcut Description Return Display report Opens a window in which the result of the selected action is displayed.
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Control Center Icon Description Action scan: Finished successfully without detecting virus. Action scan: Virus detected or finished unsuccessfully. Action update: Successfully completed. Action update: Not successfully completed.  Action Shows the action performed.  Result Shows the result of the action.  Date/Time Shows the date and time when the report was created. 7.3.11 Contents of a report for a scan  Date of the scan: The date of the scan.
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Control Center Total number of hidden objects detected  Detections: Total number of viruses and unwanted programs detected.  Suspicious: Number of suspicious files.  Warnings: Number of alerts about detected viruses.  Information: Number of information items issued, for example further information that may arise during a scan.  Repaired: Total number of repaired files  Quarantine: Total number of files placed in quarantine.  Renamed: Total number of renamed files.
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Control Center Note The display is not automatically updated when the section is selected if there are more than 20,000 events stored in the event database. In this case, press F5 to update the event viewer. Toolbar, shortcuts and context menu Icon Shortcut Description Return Show selected event Opens a window in which the result of the selected action is displayed. For example the result of a scan. F3 Export selected event(s) Exports selected events.
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Control Center Scheduler System Scanner Updater Web Protection By checking the box All you can display the events of all available modules. To display only the events of a specific module, please check the box next to the required module. Filter The following event classification can be displayed by the event viewer. Icon Description Information Warning Error Detection By checking the box Filter you can display all events. To display only certain events, please check the box next to the required event.
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Control Center Event description of the respective module.  Date/Time The date and the local time the event occurred. 7.3.13 Refresh Updates the view of the opened section. 7.4 Extras 7.4.1 Boot records scan You can also scan the boot sectors of the drives of your workstation with a system scan. This is recommended, for example, when a system scan detects a virus and you want to make sure that the boot sectors are not affected.
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Control Center Search from the first character of a name You can enter the initial letter and the following characters here on the keyboard and the marker scrolls alphabetically in the list of names (example: "Ra" finds "Rabbit"). If the name or sequence of characters searched for is available, the position found is marked in the list. Search forwards Starts the search forwards in alphabetical order. Search backwards Starts the search backwards in alphabetical order.
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Control Center 7.6 Help 7.6.1 Topics The menu item Topics in the Help menu opens the list of contents of the online help. 7.6.2 Help me If an Internet connection is active, the Help me item in the Help menu opens the relevant Support page for your product on the Avira website. There you can read the answers to frequently asked questions, consult the knowledgebase and contact Avira Support. 7.6.
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Control Center communicate with the Avira servers. If you are using a firewall, please ensure that the required connections and/or incoming or outgoing data are not blocked by the firewall. Note You have the option of launching a product upgrade for a product from the Avira desktop product family (see Product information > Licensing and Upgrade). Enter the activation code for the product you want to upgrade in the Activation code input box.
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Control Center 7.6.8 Show notifier again The menu command Show notifier again in the Help menu, lets you access the notifier of your Avira product. The notifier keeps you informed of the latest malware protection offers. 7.6.9 About Avira Free Antivirus  General Addresses and information about your Avira product.  Version information Version information for files in the Avira product package.
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Control Center Click Visit the Avira Experts Market. You are redirected to the Avira Experts Market website. Click Find an expert. You are redirected to the expert database where you can carry out a search according to your needs.
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Control Center A confirmation message is displayed and an email including an activation link is sent to your email address. Click the activation link. A website displaying the terms and conditions is shown. Set a password for your Expert account and click Activate. When the confirmation message is displayed, click Take me to Experts Portal. You can now start helping other users.
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Child Protection 8. Child Protection Use Avira's CHILD PROTECTION features, to ensure a safe Internet experience for your children or other persons using your computer.  With the Social Networks feature, you can monitor your children's activities online. The Social Networks technology checks their social network accounts for comments, photos etc. that may influence your child's reputation in a negative way or may indicate that your child is in danger. Related topics:  Social Networks 8.
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Child Protection Click Log in. If you have saved the cookie on your system, the web browser opens displaying your Avira Social Network Protection dashboard. -ORIf your web browser does not accept cookies or removes them every time your web browser is closed, you can either log in by clicking on the Facebook logo or by entering your username and password. Avira Free Antivirus - User Manual (Status: 16 Dec.
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Mobile Protection 9. Mobile Protection Avira does not only protect your computer system from malware and viruses but also protects your smartphone, running with Android operating system, from loss and theft. Using Avira Android Security you can also block unwanted calls or SMS. Simply add phone numbers from call log, SMS log and your list of contacts to the blacklist, or create manually a contact you want to block. You can find more information on our website: www.avira.
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Configuration 10. Configuration  Overview of configuration options  Buttons 10.
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Configuration        Password protection for access to the Control Center and the Configuration Security: block autostart function, complete system scan status display, product protection, protect Windows hosts file WMI: Enable WMI support Event log configuration Configuration of report functions Setting of directories used Configuration of acoustic alerts when malware is detected 10.1.1 Buttons Button Description Default values All settings of the configuration are restored to default values.
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Configuration All files If this option is enabled, all files are scanned for viruses or unwanted programs, irrespective of their content and file extension. The filter is not used. Note If All files is enabled, the button File extensions cannot be selected. Use smart extensions If this option is enabled, the selection of the files scanned for viruses or unwanted programs is automatically chosen by the program.
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Configuration Scan boot sectors of selected drives If this option is enabled, the System Scanner scans the boot sectors of the drives selected for the system scan. This option is enabled as the default setting. Scan master boot sectors If this option is enabled, the System Scanner scans the master boot sectors of the hard disk(s) used in the system. Ignore offline files If this option is enabled, the direct scan ignores so-called offline files completely during a scan.
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Configuration Follow symbolic links If this option is enabled, System Scanner performs a scan that follows all symbolic links in the scan profile or selected directory and scans the linked files for viruses and malware. Note The option does not include any shortcuts, but refers exclusively to symbolic links (generated by mklink.exe) or Junction Points (generated by junction.exe) that are transparent in the file system.
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Configuration Scanner priority With the on-demand scan, the System Scanner distinguishes between priority levels. This is only effective if several processes are running simultaneously on the workstation. The selection affects the scanning speed. low The System Scanner is only allocated processor time by the operating system, if no other process requires computation time, i.e. as long as only the System Scanner is running, the speed is maximum.
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Configuration Copy file to quarantine before action If this option is enabled, the System Scanner creates a backup copy before carrying out the requested primary or secondary action. The back-up copy is saved in Quarantine, where the file can be restored if it is of informative value. You can also send the backup copy to the Avira Malware Research Center for further investigation. Primary action Primary action is the action performed when the System Scanner finds a virus or an unwanted program.
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Configuration Secondary action The option "Secondary action" can only be selected if the setting Repair was selected under "Primary action". With this option it can now be decided what is to be done with the affected file if it cannot be repaired. Rename If this option is enabled, the System Scanner renames the file. Direct access to these files (e.g. with double-click) is therefore no longer possible. Files can later be repaired and given their original names again.
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Configuration Smart Extensions If this option is enabled, the System Scanner detects whether a file is a packed file format (archive), even if the file extension differs from the usual extensions, and scans the archive. However every file must be opened for this, which reduces the scanning speed. Example: If a *.zip archive has the file extension *.xyz, the System Scanner also unpacks this archive and scans it. This option is enabled as the default setting.
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Configuration Please enter as few exceptions as possible here and really only files that, for whatever reason, should not be included in a normal scan. We recommend that you always scan these files for viruses or unwanted programs before they are included in this list! Note The entries in the list must not result in more than 6000 characters in total. Warning These files are not included in a scan! Note The files included in this list are recorded in the report file.
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Configuration extensive analysis and investigation of the affected codes for functions typical of malware. If the code being scanned exhibits these characteristic features, it is reported as being suspicious. This does not necessarily mean that the code is in fact malware. False positives do sometimes occur. The decision on how to handle affected code is to be made by the user, e.g. based on his or her knowledge of whether the source of the code is trustworthy or not.
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Configuration Reporting Off If this option is enabled, the System Scanner does not report the actions and results of the on-demand scan. Default When this option is activated, the System Scanner logs the path and names of the concerning files. In addition, the configuration for the current scan, version information and information on the licensee is written in the report file. Extended When this option is activated, the System Scanner logs alerts and tips in addition to the default information.
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Configuration Note If All files is enabled, the File extensions button cannot be selected. Use smart extensions If this option is enabled, the selection of the files scanned for viruses or unwanted programs is automatically chosen by the program. This means that the program decides whether the files are scanned or not based on their content. This procedure is somewhat slower than Use file extension list, but more secure, since not only on the basis of the file extension is scanned.
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Configuration Note In order not to reduce the performance of your computer too much, the option Monitor network drives should only be enabled in exceptional cases. Warning If this option is disabled, the network drives are not monitored. They are no longer protected against viruses or unwanted programs! Note When files are executed on network drives, they are scanned by the Real-Time Protection irrespective of the setting for the Monitor network drives option.
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Configuration define the recursion depth. The default value for the recursion depth is 1 and is recommended: all files that are directly located in the main archive are scanned. Max. number of files When scanning archives, you can restrict the scan to a maximum number of files in the archive. The default value for the maximum number of files to be scanned is 10 and is recommended. Max. size (KB) When scanning archives, you can restrict the scan to a maximum archive size to be unpacked.
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Configuration When specifying the process, you can use the wildcards * (any number of characters) and ? (a single character). C:\Program C:\Program C:\Program C:\Program Files\Application\application.exe Files\Application\applicatio?.exe Files\Application\applic*.exe Files\Application\*.
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Configuration Input box In this box you can enter the name of the file object that is not included in the onaccess scan. No file object is entered as the default setting. The entries in the list must have no more than 6000 characters in total. When specifying file objects to be omitted, you can use the wildcards* (any number of characters) and ? (a single character): Individual file extensions can also be excluded (including wildcards): C:\Directory\*.mdb *.mdb *.md? *.xls* C:\Directory\*.
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Configuration Please note the further information when specifying exceptions: In order to also exclude objects when they are accessed with short DOS file names (DOS name convention 8.3), the relevant short file name must also be entered in the list. A file name that contains wildcards may not be terminated with a backslash. For example: C:\Program Files\Application\applic*.
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Configuration Advanced Heuristic Analysis and Detection (AHeAD) Enable AHeAD Your Avira program contains a very powerful heuristic in the form of Avira AHeAD technology, which can also detect unknown (new) malware. If this option is enabled, you can define how "aggressive" this heuristic should be. This option is enabled as the default setting. Low detection level If this option is enabled, slightly less unknown malware is detected, the risk of false alerts is low in this case.
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Configuration Limit report file Limit size to n MB If this option is enabled, the report file can be limited to a certain size. Permitted values are between 1 and 100 MB. Around 50 kilobytes of extra space are allowed when limiting the size of the report file to minimize the use of system resources. If the size of the log file exceeds the indicated size by more than 50 kilobytes, then old entries are deleted until the indicated size minus 50 kilobytes is reached.
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Configuration Use the following connection This setting is displayed if you define your connection individually. The Updater automatically detects which connection options are available. Connection options that are not available are grayed out and cannot be activated. A dial-up connection can be established manually via a phone book entry in Windows, for example. User Enter the user name of the selected account. Password Enter the password for this account.
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Configuration settings to use a proxy server under Control panel > Internet options > Connections > LAN settings. You can also access the Internet options in the Extras menu in Internet Explorer. Warning If you are using a proxy server which requires authentication, enter all the required data under the option Use this proxy server. The Use proxy system settings option can only be used for proxy servers without authentication.
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Configuration Network profiles Network profiles Windows Firewall blocks the unathorized access of programs and apps to your computer based on three network location profiles:  Private network: for home or office networks  Public network: for public places' networks  Domain network: for networks with a domain controller You can manage these profiles from the configuration of your Avira product under Internet protection > Windows Firewall > Network profiles.
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Configuration Disable (not recommended) If this option is enabled, Windows Firewall is deactivated. This option is not recommended, it puts your computer at risk. Public network Public network settings The public network settings manage the access other computers or devices in public places' networks have to your computer. These settings do not allow, by default, the users of the public network to see and access your computer.
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Configuration Notify me when a new app is blocked If this option is enabled, you will receive a notification every time that Windows Firewall blocks a new program or app. Disable (not recommended) If this option is enabled, Windows Firewall is deactivated. This option is not recommended, it puts your computer at risk. Note This option is only available if your computer is connected to a network with a domain controller.
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Configuration of a web page. I-Frames can be used to load and display different web content - usually other URLs - as independent documents in a sub-window of the browser. I-Frames are mostly used for banner advertising. In some cases, I-Frames are used to conceal malware. In these cases the area of the I-Frame is mostly invisible or almost invisible in the browser. The Block suspicious I-frames option allows you to check and block the loading of I-Frames.
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Configuration Move to quarantine In the event of a virus or malware being detected, the website requested from the web server and/ or the transferred data and files are moved into quarantine. The affected file can be recovered from the quarantine manager if it has any informative value or - if necessary - sent to the Avira Malware Research Center. Ignore The website requested from the web server and/ or the data and files that were transferred are forwarded on by Web Protection to your web browser.
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Configuration Note No wildcards (* for any number of characters or ? for a single character) can be used when entering file types and MIME types. MIME types: Examples for media types: text = for text files image = for graphics files video = for video files audio = for sound files application = for files linked to a particular program      Examples of excluded file and MIME types application/octet-stream = application/octet-stream MIME type files (executable files *.bin, *.exe, *.com, *dll, *.
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Configuration All MIME types (content types for the transferred data) in the list are ignored by Web Protection during scanning. Input box In this box you can input the name of the MIME types and file types to be ignored by Web Protection during scanning. For file types, enter the file extension, e.g. .htm. For MIME types, indicate the media type and, where applicable, sub-type. The two statements are separated from one another by a single slash, e.g. video/mpeg or audio/x-wav.
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Configuration URLs skipped by Web Protection All URLs in this list are excluded from Web Protection scans. Input box In this box you can input URLs (Internet addresses) to be excluded from Web Protection scans, e.g. www.domainname.com. You can specify parts of the URL, using leading or following dots to indicate the domain level: .domainname.com for all pages and all subdomains of the domain. Indicate websites with any top-level domain (.com or .net) with a following dot: domainname..
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Configuration     avira.com -OR- *.avira.com = All URLs with the second and top-level domain avira.com are excluded from Web Protection scans: The specification implies all existing subdomains for .avira.com: www.avira.com, forum.avira.com, etc. avira. -OR- *.avira.* = All URLs with the second-level domain avira are excluded from Web Protection scans: The specification implies all existing top-level domains or subdomains for .avira: www.avira.com, www.avira.de, forum.avira.com, etc. .*domain*.
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Configuration Enable AHeAD Your Avira program contains a very powerful heuristic in the form of Avira AHeAD technology, which can also detect unknown (new) malware. If this option is enabled, you can define how "aggressive" this heuristic should be. This option is enabled as the default setting. Low detection level If this option is enabled, slightly less unknown malware is detected, the risk of false alerts is low in this case.
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Configuration Limit size to n MB If this option is enabled, the report file can be limited to a certain size; possible values: Permitted values are between 1 and 100 MB. Around 50 kilobytes of extra space are allowed when limiting the size of the report file to minimize the use of system resources. If the size of the log file exceeds the indicated size by more than 50 kilobytes, old entries are then deleted until the indicated size has been reduced by 20%.
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Configuration Select all If this option is enabled, all types are enabled. Default values This button restores the predefined default values. Note If a type is disabled, files recognized as being of the relevant program type are no longer indicated. No entry is made in the report file. 10.7.2 Password You can protect your Avira product in different areas with a password. If a password has been issued, you will be asked for this password every time you want to open the protected area.
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Configuration Password-protected area Function Control Center If this option is enabled, the pre-defined password is required to start the Control Center. Activate / deactivate RealTime Protection If this option is enabled, the pre-defined password is required to enable or disable Avira Real-Time Protection. Activate / deactivate Web Protection If this option is enabled, the pre-defined password is required to enable/disable Web Protection.
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Configuration Send email to Avira If this option is enabled, the pre-defined password is required to send an object to the Avira Malware Research Center for examination. Configuration If this option is enabled, configuration of the program is only possible after entering the predefined password. Installation / uninstallation If this option is enabled, the pre-defined password is required for installation or uninstallation of the program. 10.7.
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Configuration Note The product protection options are not available if the Real-Time Protection has not been installed using the user-defined installation option. Protect processes from unwanted termination If this option is enabled, all processes of the program are protected against unwanted termination by viruses and malware or against 'uncontrolled' termination by a user, e.g. via Task-Manager. This option is enabled as the default setting.
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Configuration Note Protection for files and registration entries is not available for Windows XP 64 bit ! 10.7.4 WMI Support for Windows Management Instrumentation Windows Management Instrumentation is a basic Windows management technology that uses script and programming languages to allow read and write access, both local and remote, to settings on Windows systems. Your Avira product supports WMI and provides data (status information, statistical data, reports, planned requests, etc.
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Configuration Limit number to max. n piece When this option is enabled, the maximum number of reports can be limited to a specific amount. Values between 1 and 300 are permissible. If the specified number is exceeded, then the oldest report at that time is deleted. Delete all reports older than n day(s) If this option is enabled, reports are automatically deleted after a specific number of days. Permissible values are: 1 to 90 days. This option is enabled as the default setting, with a value of 30 days.
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Configuration 10.7.8 Acoustic alerts When a virus or malware is detected by the System Scanner or Real-Time Protection, an acoustic alert is heard in interactive action mode. You can now choose to activate or deactivate the acoustic alert and select an alternative WAVE file for the alert. Note The action mode of the System Scanner is set in the configuration under System Scanner > Scan > Action on detection.
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Configuration Alert, if last update is older than n day(s) In this box, you can enter the maximum number of days allowed to have passed since the last update. If this number of days has passed, a red icon is displayed for the update status under Status in the Control Center. Show notice if the virus definition file is out of date If this option is enabled, you will obtain an alert if the virus definition file is not up-todate.
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Tray Icon 11. Tray Icon The tray icon in the system tray of the taskbar displays the status of the Real-Time Protection service. Icon Description Avira Real-Time Protection is enabled Avira Real-Time Protection is disabled Entries in the context menu  Enable Real-Time Protection: Enables or disables the Avira Real-Time Protection.  Enable Web Protection: Enables or disables the Avira Web Protection.
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In Product Messages 12. In Product Messages 12.1.1 Product Message Subscription Center You will reach the Product Message Subscription Center by clicking My communication settings in the context menu of the Avira Tray Icon or by clicking the symbol for Configuration in the slide-up of My messages. You may influence the information flow by clicking the according ON/OFF button. Click Update Profile to configure your personal messaging profile.
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FireWall 13. FireWall Avira Free Antivirus allows you to manage the incoming and outgoing data traffic depending on computer settings:  Windows Firewall Starting from Windows 7, Avira Free Antivirus allows the Windows Firewall management through the Avira product. 13.1 Windows Firewall Avira Free Antivirus gives you the option of managing directly the Windows Firewall via the Avira Control and Configuration Center.
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Updates 14. Updates 14.1 Updates The effectiveness of anti-virus software depends on how up-to-date the program is, in particular the virus definition file and the scan engine. To carry out regular updates, the Updater component is integrated into your Avira product. The Updater ensures that your Avira product is always up-to-date and able to deal with the new viruses that appear every day.
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Updates An update is automatically performed in the following interval: 6 hours. In the Control Center under Scheduler, you can create additional update jobs that are performed by Updater at the specified intervals. You also have the option to start an update manually:  in the Control Center: in the Update menu and in the Status section  via the context menu of the tray icon Updates can be obtained from the Internet via Web server of the manufacturer.
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Updates display mode is set to maximized or minimized, the updater will switch to the desktop. To prevent this, start the updater with the display mode set to hide. In this mode you will no longer be notified about updates by the update window. Status: Shows the proceeding of the updater. Time elapsed: Time which has elapsed since starting the download. Time remaining: Time until download is finished. Download speed: Speed of download. Transmitted: Bytes already downloaded.
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FAQ, Tips 15. FAQ, Tips This chapter contains important information on troubleshooting and further tips on using your Avira product.  see Chapter Help in case of a problem  see Chapter Shortcuts  see Chapter Windows Security Center (Windows XP) or Windows Action Center (as of Windows 7) 15.1 Help in case of a problem Here you will find information on causes and solutions of possible problems.  The error message Connection failed while downloading the file ...
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FAQ, Tips Viruses and malware cannot be moved or deleted. Reason: The file was loaded by windows and is active. Update your Avira product. If you use the Windows XP operating system, deactivate System Restore. Start the computer in Safe Mode. Start the Configuration of your Avira product . Select System Scanner > Scan > Files > All files and confirm the window with OK. Start a scan of all local drives. Start the computer in Normal Mode. Carry out a scan in Normal Mode.
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FAQ, Tips The computer is extremely slow when I perform a data back-up. Reason: During the backup procedure, Avira Real-Time Protection scans all files being used by the backup procedure. Select Real-Time Protection > Scan > Exceptions in the Configuration and enter the process names of the back-up software. My firewall reports Avira Real-Time Protection Reason: Communication with Avira Real-Time Protection occurs via the TCP/IP Internet protocol. A firewall monitors all connections via this protocol.
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FAQ, Tips 15.2.1 In dialog boxes Shortcut Description Ctrl + Tab Ctrl + Page down Navigation in the Control Center Go to next section. Ctrl + Shift + Tab Ctrl + Page up Navigation in the Control Center Go to previous section. Navigation in the configuration sections First, use the mouse to set the focus on a configuration section. Change between the options in a marked drop-down list or between several options in a group of options. Tab Change to the next option or options group.
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FAQ, Tips 15.2.2 In the help Shortcut Description Alt + Space Display system menu. Alt + Tab Shift between the help and the other opened windows. Alt + F4 Close help. Shift + F10 Display context menu of the help. Ctrl + Tab Go to next section in the navigation window. Ctrl + Shift + Tab Go to previous section in the navigation window. Page up Change to the subject, which is displayed above in the contents, in the index or in the list of the search results.
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FAQ, Tips F9 Start update Scan section Shortcut Description F3 Start scan with the selected profile F4 Create desktop link for the selected profile Quarantine section Shortcut Description F2 Rescan object F3 Restore object F4 Send object F6 Restore object to... Return Properties Ins Add file Del Delete object Scheduler section Shortcut Description F2 Edit job Return Properties Avira Free Antivirus - User Manual (Status: 16 Dec.
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FAQ, Tips Ins Insert new job Del Delete job Reports section Shortcut Description F3 Display report file F4 Print report file Return Display report Del Delete report(s) Events section Shortcut Description F3 Export event(s) Return Show event Del Delete event(s) 15.3 Windows Security Center - Windows XP Service Pack 3 - 15.3.1 General The Windows Security Center checks the status of a computer for important security aspects.
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FAQ, Tips 15.3.
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FAQ, Tips Note In order for the Windows Security Center to recognize your Avira product as upto-date, an update must be performed after installation. Update your system by carrying out an update. Virus protection ON After installing your Avira product and performing a subsequent update, you will receive the following message: Your Avira product is now up-to-date and the Avira Real-Time Protection is enabled.
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FAQ, Tips the Control Center. You can also see that the Avira Real-Time Protection is enabled if the red umbrella in your taskbar is open. Virus protection NOT MONITORED If you receive the following message from the Windows Security Center, you have decided that you want to monitor your anti-virus software yourself. Note The Windows Security Center is supported by your Avira product. You can enable this option at any time via the Recommendations button.
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FAQ, Tips If a problem is detected with one of these important points (e.g. an outdated anti-virus program), the Action Center issues an alert and gives recommendations on how to protect your computer better. This means, that if everything works correctly, you won't be bothered with messages. You still can have a look at the security status of your computer in the Windows Action Center, under the Security item.
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FAQ, Tips Avira Desktop reports that it is turned off You receive the following message if you disable the Avira Real-Time Protection or stop the Real-Time Protection service. Note You can enable or disable Avira Real-Time Protection in the Status section of the Avira Control Center. You can also notice that the Avira Real-Time Protection is enabled by the opened red umbrella in your taskbar.
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FAQ, Tips Note Please note that this option will not appear in Windows 8, as Windows Defender is now also the pre-set virus protection function. Note Install your Avira product on your computer to protect it against viruses and other unwanted programs! Avira Desktop has expired This information of the Windows Action Center appears when the license of your Avira product has expired.
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FAQ, Tips Avira Desktop reports that it is turned on After the installation of your Avira product and a subsequent update, you will not receive any messages from the Windows Action Center. But if you go to Action Center > Security, you can see: Avira Desktop reports that it is turned on. This means that your Avira product is now up-to-date and the Avira Real-Time Protection is enabled.
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FAQ, Tips Windows Defender is out of date You may receive the following message if Windows Defender is activated. If you have already installed the Avira product, this message should not appear. Please check if the installation went OK. Note Windows Defender is the pre-set spyware and virus protection solution from Windows.
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Viruses and more 16. Viruses and more Avira Free Antivirus not only detects viruses and malware, it can also protect you from other threats. In this chapter you can find an overview of different kinds of malware and other threats describing their background, behavior and the unpleasant surprises they have in store for you. Related topics:  Threat categories  Viruses and other malware 16.
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Viruses and more Backdoor Clients In order to steal data or manipulate computers, a backdoor server program is smuggled in unknown to the user. This program can be controlled by a third party using backdoor control software (client) via the Internet or a network. Your Avira product recognizes "Backdoor control software".
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Viruses and more Your Avira product recognizes "Double Extension Files". If the option Double Extension files is enabled with a check mark in the configuration under Threat categories, you receive a corresponding alert if your Avira product detects such files. Fraudulent software Also known as "scareware" or "rogueware", it is a fraudulent software that pretends that your computer is infected by viruses or malware.
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Viruses and more Thanks to the extension of its scanning and identification routines, your Avira product is able to detect joke programs and eliminate them as unwanted programs if required. If the option Jokes is enabled with a check mark in the configuration under Threat categories, a corresponding alert is issued if a joke program is detected.
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Viruses and more Backdoors A backdoor can gain access to a computer by bypassing the computer access security mechanisms. A program that is being executed in the background generally enables the attacker almost unlimited rights. User's personal data can be spied with the backdoor's help. But are mainly used to install further computer viruses or worms on the relevant system. Boot viruses The boot or master boot sector of hard disks is mainly infected by boot sector viruses.
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Viruses and more Hoaxes For several years, Internet and other network users have received alerts about viruses that are purportedly spread via email. These alerts are spread via email with the request that they should be sent to the highest possible number of colleagues and to other users, in order to warn everyone against the "danger". Honeypot A honeypot is a service (program or server) installed in a network. Its function is to monitor a network and log attacks.
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Viruses and more Polymorph viruses Polymorph viruses are the real masters of disguise. They change their own programming codes - and are therefore very hard to detect. Program viruses A computer virus is a program that is capable of attaching itself to other programs after being executed and cause an infection. Viruses multiply themselves unlike logic bombs and Trojans. In contrast to a worm, a virus always requires a program as host, where the virus deposits its virulent code.
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Viruses and more which differentiates them from viruses and worms. Most of them have an interesting name (SEX.EXE or STARTME.EXE) with the intention to induce the user to start the Trojan. Immediately after execution they become active and can, for example, format the hard disk. A dropper is a special form of Trojan that 'drops' viruses, i.e. embeds viruses on the computer system.
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Info and Service 17. Info and Service This chapter contains information on how to contact us.  see Chapter Contact address  see Chapter Technical support  see Chapter Suspicious files  see Chapter Reporting false positives 17.1 Contact address If you have any questions or requests concerning the Avira product range, we will be pleased to help you. For our contact addresses, please refer to the Control Center under Help > About Avira Free Antivirus. 17.
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Info and Service  Identify the file in the quarantine manager of the Control Center and select the item Send file via the context menu or the corresponding button.  Send the required file packed (WinZIP, PKZip, Arj, etc.) in the attachment of an email to the following address: virus@avira.com As some email gateways work with anti-virus software, you should also provide the file(s) with a password (please remember to tell us the password). 17.
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This manual was created with great care. However, errors in design and contents cannot be excluded. The reproduction of this publication or parts thereof in any form is prohibited without previous written consent from Avira Operations GmbH & Co. KG. Brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Protected trademarks are not marked as such in this manual. However, this does not mean that they may be used freely. Issued Q4-2013 © 2013 Avira Operations GmbH & Co.