Today, Tom asks:
I have heard that it is important to make sure that you protect a Linux system from viruses, even though the viruses may not affect Linux? Why and what would I use on Ubuntu to protect myself?
Despite not really needing to use an antivirus in Linux, it is not a bad idea to prevent your system from inadvertently becoming a carrier by using one of these AV programs list below. In this article, we’ll examine what each AV program offers and why you would possibly want to bother with an antivirus program on a Linux distro such as Ubuntu.
- AVG Free Edition for Linux: A solid option in the Windows world, this closed source antivirus leaves a lot to be desired as a freeware option for the Ubuntu desktop.
- Clamtk (sudo apt-get install clamtk): Open source and setup as a GTK front end for Clamav, this application is probably all most of you will ever need to use in an effort to protect any Windows file systems from Windows based viruses.
- Avast: Another closed source favorite from the Windows world, better than AVG Free Edition, but it does have one point of irritation discussed in the video – registration key!
Do you have an Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Simply Mepis, Linspire/Freespire or PCLinuxOS related question? Perhaps you are just burnt out on writing on the walls with crayons? Whatever the comments may be, drop me a line, and you too can “Just Ask Matt”- Linux Edition![tags]dual booting, ubuntu computers[/tags]
