[LBo] help

[Annie Gonzalez]

Hi
Recently installed Mepis 6.5.  Really like it and am in the process of learning how to use it. 

Coming from Windows, security (virus/spyware protection) is a concern.  Been told that Linux is secure, unlike Windows. Recently discovered a Firewall and Virus Program on Mepis.  Not sure whether these need to be upgraded periodically as in Norton AV, and other virus and spyware programs. Do I need to scan my computer? Does Linux perform these tasks automatically?  Tried to scan an email attachment that I saved on my desktop and got message that KlamAv needed to be activated.  It put the program on my taskbar. Opened it to check it out and when it got to Virus Browser it popped up a window that said it was installing "lots and lots of virus information"  What it actually did was hang there and wouldnt go away...and froze the computer.

Been using Synaptic to install upgrades.  Some confusing problems using it at times...

In relation to virus protection during recent download got message that "clamav" had not installed and it gave message "http:..clamav.net/faq.html, local version: 0.88.7/recommended version 0.91.1.  How would I deal with these? Went to clamav.net,etc. but there's a bunch of confusing, totally unfamiliar information.

Sometimes before a download it gives a warning that I may be installing "malicious" material...???? and it gives 3 options for download, which show the same files. 

Also, in Synaptic under Status, theres a long list of "not installed packages".  I totally messed up a previous version of Mepis when I tried to install them.  What's up with these packages???  Are they optional, or should some of them be installed?

Appreciate any help I can get so I can keep on going with Linux

Annie








       
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