Windows
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install ESET Antivirus on a Windows device:
1. Purchase ESET License or Get a Trial
Visit the ESET website to purchase an ESET license or download a free trial of the software.
If you already have a license key, keep it ready for activation during the installation process.
2. Download ESET Installer
Go to the ESET Download Page and select the version of ESET you want to install (e.g., ESET NOD32 Antivirus, ESET Internet Security, or ESET Smart Security Premium).
Click Download to begin downloading the ESET installer.
3. Run the Installer
Once the installer is downloaded:
Navigate to your Downloads folder and double-click the ESET Installer file (typically named
eset_internet_security_live_installer.exe
or something similar).If a User Account Control (UAC) prompt appears, click Yes to allow the app to make changes to your device.
4. Choose Language and Start Installation
After the installer starts, select your preferred language from the dropdown list.
Click Continue to proceed.
5. Accept the License Agreement
You’ll be prompted to review the End User License Agreement (EULA).
Read the agreement and click I Accept to continue.
6. Choose Installation Type
Typical Installation: This option automatically installs ESET with recommended settings, which is ideal for most users.
Custom Installation: If you want to customize the settings (like installation directory, proxy settings, etc.), select this option.
For most users, it’s best to choose Typical Installation.
7. Enable or Disable ESET LiveGrid®
ESET will ask if you want to enable ESET LiveGrid®, its cloud-based threat detection system that provides real-time updates on emerging threats. It is recommended to enable it for better protection.
Click Continue after selecting your preference.
8. Participation in Customer Experience Program (Optional)
You’ll be given the option to join ESET’s Customer Experience Program, which helps ESET improve their products by collecting anonymous data on how you use the software. You can opt in or out.
Click Continue to proceed.
9. Activate ESET
You will now need to activate your ESET product. There are several activation options:
Enter a License Key: If you purchased a license, enter the key in the provided field.
Free Trial: If you want to try ESET, select the Free trial option. You’ll need to provide an email address.
Activate Later: You can also choose to activate later, but you won’t have full protection until activation.
10. Allow Detection of Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs)
ESET will ask if you want to detect Potentially Unwanted Applications (PUAs). These are applications that are not necessarily malicious but can affect system performance or display unwanted ads.
It’s recommended to enable detection of PUAs to ensure better system security.
11. Complete Installation
Once you’ve configured your settings and activation, the installation process will continue automatically.
The software will download the necessary components and install them on your system. This may take a few minutes.
12. Run an Initial Scan
After the installation completes:
Open the ESET application from the Start Menu or system tray.
Click Scan Computer to perform an initial system scan and ensure your device is free from malware.
13. Update ESET
ESET will automatically download the latest virus definitions and updates. Make sure to let the update complete to ensure you’re protected against the latest threats.
You’ve now successfully installed ESET Antivirus on your Windows PC. Your system is now protected from viruses, malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats.
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