Anti-virus updates

[kangaroota]

Some advice please.
I am in the habit of downloading anti-virus updates as soon as I turn my computer on.
My question is - do I need to re-start my computer when the download is complete for the up-date to be effective or is it effective straight away without having to re-start?
Thanks in advance.

[Tarq57]

Hi, depends on the AV. But generally, most do not need a reboot unless at least part of the program has been updated, and if they require a reboot, you will be prompted.

[FN-GM]

Basically what he said. Most dont.

I know that the following dont need a reboot for definition updates

AVG
McAfee
Norton / Symantec
Sophos
CA

If you have a program update they may need a reboot. Program updates are not very common really though.

What anti virus do you run?

[Tarq57]

kangarooter ('orrible mental image that conjures up )
Why are you asking this? Had any problems, recently?

[Saab Dastard]

Sophos doesn't require a reboot for program or definition update. It runs as a Service, which is stopped & restarted.

SD

[green granite]

Nor does avast, but in W7 with UAC on it asks for a program restart.

[frostbite]

Avast does require restart for a program update.

It's just done one today. It does have the decency not to insist on it straight after download though.

[allthatglitters]

AVG occasionaly requests a reboot normally when it updates the programme, but it will request the reboot.