McAfee VIRUSSCAN 4.5 -, Administrator'S Manual

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Using the SecureCast Service to Get New Data Files
172 McAfee VirusScan Anti-Virus Software
Why should I update my data files?
Your software relies on information in its virus definition files (.DAT) files to
identify viruses. More than 200 new viruses appear each month, however, and
older .DAT files might not recognize them. To meet this challenge, McAfee
releases new .DAT files each week. You are entitled to these free data file
updates for use with your version of the software. If you do not use current
.DAT files you may compromise your anti-virus security. Network Associates
strongly recommends that you update your .DAT files on a regular basis.
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IMPORTANT: Using current virus identification files is only one
element of an effective virus protection program. It is equally important
to use a scanning engine that incorporates current advances in virus
detection and cleaning. Periodically, Network Associates releases an
upgrade of its scan engine that incorporates these advances.
Earlier .DAT files, however, may not function properly with newer scan
engines. When the older scan engine version becomes obsolete, Network
Associates will discontinue development of .DAT files for it. You should
upgrade your software before your current version becomes obsolete.
Which data files does the SecureCast service deliver?
With the SecureCast service, you’ll receive automatic downloads of these files:
• New product upgrades . The products upgrades you will receive via
SecureCast depends on the terms of your license or grant.
•
Virus definition updates
. You will receive weekly .DAT file updates for
your product version.
•
SuperDAT package updates
. SuperDAT packages consist of .DAT file
updates—exactly the same updates you receive via your regular weekly
package—and scan engine upgrades, as they become available. The
SuperDAT utility also features an easy-to-use Setup architecture for quick
.DAT file and scan engine updating and upgrading.
• Virus alert messages . McAfee AVERT researchers publish virus alert
messages to warn customers about potential high-risk virus threats. These
messages connect you directly with the AVERT website, where you can
download EXTRA.DAT files, if available, to counter the threat, and learn
about the characteristics of the new virus.