Virus Scans - Exceptions

I have NSW2002 scheduled for virus scans twice per week. Is there a way to "exclude" individual folders? I have many media and .exe install files which are scanned for viruses immediately after download. Unless these .exe install files or media files can get re-infected, I'd rather just exclude there folders when doing my scheduled scans.

 

I have Norton anti virus 2002 so assuming it functions the same way as in "system works ", then yes you can exclude what ever you want where ever you want as follows.....

1 In the Norton AntiVirus main window, click Options.

2 Click Exclusions.

3 Click New.

4 Do one of the following:

Use the browse button to display a directory from which you can specify the path to a file or folder to be excluded from scans. If you select Include Subfolders, all files in the specified folder and all files in its subfolders are excluded.
Type a filename in the Item text box. You can use wildcards, such as *.COM, to exclude files based on filename characteristics.

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Can they get [re]infected? YES. You may be better off using the option of scanning "All Files" on the routine scheduled scanning. Exe's are pen files and Prime targets for virus', in particular, "Worms ". Infections happen and I tend to lean towards the "safe" rather than the "sorry" side.

I've been bitten a few times and when I least expected it. Most recently from a burned cd with *.avi movies on it. "WIn32infi ". By the time I caught it, it had infected almost 900 *.exe and a few screen savers. What a mess! I have no desire to experience this again.

Ideally the schedule is set for a time when you are not actively using the computer, such as in the wee hours of the morning. Is excluding these files really needed?

 

Hi Ann

Thank you the information and more so your experience in using exclusions. That dangerous word "Assumptions" lead me to believe that my choices would be safe choices. When it comes to viruses, nothing sacred, everything is suspect.
Thank you for time and your wisdom.