Viruses, malware and other malicious bugs are hazardous to computers, files, and important documentation. Protect valuable data and keep computers healthy and infection-free by using simple and efficient online computer virus scanners at no cost.

Web-based virus protection differs from other virus programs as no download or installation process is necessary. All scans take place in real time, on the Internet. Online virus scanners offer varying degrees of protection and scanning, depending on which scanner is chosen. Some scanners check computer’s memory, files, folders or boot sectors. Several provide options to clean or delete infected files, while others offer no removal or deletion.

Safeguard and protect computers, data and personal information by visiting the following six web-based virus protection websites listed below.

F-Secure Online Scanner

Supports Microsoft Windows 2000, XP and Vista
Pop-up blocker must be disabled as scanner opens in second window
Disinfects or deletes infection
Provides full report upon completion
Requires JavaScript and Microsoft ActiveX
Trend Micro HouseCall Free Scan
Supports Microsoft Windows 2000, XP, and Vista
Supports Macintosh OS X 10.4 or higher
Detects system vulnerabilities and provides a link for missing security patches
Provides detailed report upon completion, identifying security threats
Requires Microsoft ActiveX
Requires Java VM
Panda ActiveScan
Virus database is updated daily
Scans and disinfects over 185,000 viruses, worms and Trojans from system devices, hard disks, files and email
Detects spyware, dialers, Hacking tools, Rootkits other types of malicious malware
Eliminates viruses, Trojans and worms
Disable pop-up blocker prior to scan as scanner opens in second window
Shortcut icon available for computer desktop, start menu or Google toolbar for easy access
Requires Microsoft ActiveX

McAfee FreeScan

Supports Windows 98, ME, 2000, or XP
Based on the award-winning McAfee VirusScan engine
Scans system for viruses and displays a detailed listing of infected files
Additional information provided if viruses are located
Requires Microsoft ActiveX
Kaspersky Online Scanner
Powerful web-based virus scanner
Hourly updates of virus database
Does not scan boot sectors and MBRs
Does not remove viruses or infections if located on system
Requires Microsoft ActiveX
BitDefender Online Virus Scanner
Fully functional virus program
Simple interface allows easy configuration and guidance through scanning process
Scans system's memory, files, folders and boot sectors
Using default options automatically cleans infected files
Allows the scan process to pause, to resume at a more convenient time
Allows scan report to be exported for later viewing and analysis
Disable pop-up blocker prior to scan
Requires Microsoft Active X
Online anti-virus scanners require an active Internet connection. As scans may several hours to process and complete, scanning the system during overnight hours or when the computer is inactive is a good rule of thumb.