Which is safer, streaming videos or downloads?

Question

Im afraid of viruses on my computer. I know downloading videos or music can put a virus on the computer, but what about streaming videos? Is that equally as dangerous?

Answer 1

streaming

streaming downloads files to a temporary folder which are then deleted

downloading is always more dangerous

although the quality is much better

really it all depends on the source

Answer 2

Streaming a video can't give a virus, it all depends on the site that you visit that may have hidden viruses or spyware built in. If you stick to noteworthy and credible sites you'll be fine no matter what you're doing.

Answer 3

Although downloaded videos don't pose that large of a risk for containing viruses, if you wanted to be on the extra safe there should be almost no way for a virus to be sent to your computer through a streaming video. So either stream the video, or simply stay away from non reputable websites.  

Answer 4

Data Recovery-

http://spedtest.org/

Answer 5

Streaming is safer as you do not download the file itself. It is also less hassle as you do not need to worry about your Hard Drive space.

Answer 6

Streaming, but also be aware of the site that you are on. The site itself may put viruses on your computer. Get McAfee SiteAdvisor, a good anti-virus (Avira AntiVir is a good free one), and a good firewall (Comodo Firewall Pro and Online Armor are great).  

Answer 7

streaming downloads.