Testing AntiVirus software?

Discussion in 'other anti-virus software' started by Comp01, Sep 23, 2003.

Thread Status:
Not open for further replies.
  1. Comp01

    Comp01 Registered Member

    Joined:
    Sep 4, 2003
    Posts:
    638
    Okay, I wanted to test my antivirus software (AVG) and found this for a test virus: http://www.eicar.org/anti_virus_test_file.htm is it safe? and it doesnt do any real harm does it?
     
  2. Dan Perez

    Dan Perez Retired Moderator

    Joined:
    May 18, 2003
    Posts:
    1,495
    Location:
    Sunny San Diego
    It is completely safe, and is a standard test for ensuring an AV is installed and configured correctly
     
  3. Karl_Menshy

    Karl_Menshy Registered Member

    Joined:
    Apr 18, 2003
    Posts:
    135
    It is completely harmless, just displays a test string in the dos box. It is NOT a virus/malware, just a certain file on which AV vendors have agreed to detect it as a test "virus".
     
  4. Karl_Menshy

    Karl_Menshy Registered Member

    Joined:
    Apr 18, 2003
    Posts:
    135
    27 s late :D
     
  5. Dan Perez

    Dan Perez Retired Moderator

    Joined:
    May 18, 2003
    Posts:
    1,495
    Location:
    Sunny San Diego
    lol :D

    Well, comp01 now has double assurance that it is safe so the effort was not wasted :D
     
  6. mrtwolman

    mrtwolman Eset Staff Account

    Joined:
    Dec 5, 2002
    Posts:
    613
    Using CARO test files you can test if you antivirus is workin properly. This is perfect for average user.

    But due the non-viral nature of the file, it is a false possitive, isn't it ? :D
    Testing antivirus software on sets of real viruses is not such a trivial task which can be performed by a layman.
     
Thread Status:
Not open for further replies.
  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.