Update Notes: 26-Jan-2000

1. If you have several copies of the cheapie VirusScan I mentioned in the article, there's no need to register and download the upgrade program for every copy of VirusScan (although big brother McAfee would probably prefer that you did so for their records). As long as you've already downloaded the upgrade "manually" (as opposed to using SecureCast), you will have an executable update program which can be applied to the other VirusScans.

   You will notice though, that when you install another VirusScan v3.1.1 (or even the already registered VirusScan) and attempt to run the update, the update will fail. There's an easy to way to get around this. Simply load VirusScan and then choose "Update VirusScan" from the file menu. At the next screen, simply click "Cancel", and your VirusScan will now be "ready" to receive the upgrade.



2. There's a simpler way to get VirusScan v4.0 in the U.S. at almost the same price I mentioned in the article. Needless to say, this will save you the hassle of downloading the v4.02 update. Costco, a hypermarket similar to Makro in Thailand, was selling McAfee VirusScan v4.02 at a discount price of US$12 when I last visited it in July. Like Makro though, Costco is a members only establishment, thus you'll need someone with a card to get you in. For more information on Costco, and especially where their stores are located (they're not everywhere in the U.S.), check out: http://www.pricecostco.com.


3. Using VirusScan means updating your virus definitions files (i.e. DAT files) frequently. Rather than wasting your time checking http://www.nai.com every so often, go to the WinDrivers home page (http://www.windrivers.com) and get your name on their anti-virus update notification list. Then, whenever a new DAT file is released, you'll be notified by email. Unfortunately, your name doesn't stay on their list forever, and sooner or later you'll need to sign up again (damn). Mailing lists also exist for other anti- virus software, in case VirusScan is not your preferred anti-virus utility.

Incidentally, WinDrivers is a terrific place to look for drivers for your PC. Highly recommended.