What is a Computer Virus?

In simple terms, a computer virus is a piece of malicious code that is designed to disrupt your computer's normal operation. Viruses are most commonly spread via the Internet, either as email attachments or through any of the many ports that are commonly left open and unsecured by default on most computers. Viruses can also spread through programs and data that are shared between users on floppies, CD's, or across a LAN.

Most viruses, however, are more dangerous. Many can cause data loss, security breaches, or system corruption. Some can even erase your computer's BIOS, rendering the machine useless.

Types of Computer Viruses

Technically speaking, a true virus is a piece of malicious code that is attached to an executable file (much like a biological virus infects an otherwise healthy bodily cell). A true virus also attempts to proliferate (that is, to replicate itself and infect other computers). But in common usage, the term "computer virus" has come to include all sorts of malicious programs, including.

• Worms. Worms are malicious programs that replicate, but unlike viruses, do not need to be attached to other computer program files. Worms often spread over networks, via IRC (Internet Relay Chat), and over peer-to-peer music-sharing networks. Some can also spread via email.
• Trojans. Trojans are malicious programs that disguise themselves as legitimate programs. They may appear, for example, to be games, utilities, or music files. Trojans can be very destructive, but unlike true viruses, they do not replicate. Many Trojans are actually remote-access programs that allow their creator (or other dastardly individuals) to access an infected computer over the Internet.
• Macro Viruses are written as macros to popular applications like Microsoft Word or Excel. Once they have been activated (usually by opening an infected document), they deliver their payloads and begin to infect other documents.
• Boot Sector Viruses infect the computer's MBR, or Master Boot Record. This is the section of a drive that is responsible for starting the computer's operating system.

• Advertising Spyware. Although not technically "viruses" because they are (unfortunately) legal in most cases, many advertising spyware programs exhibit the same characteristics as Trojans or viruses. The only reason they're not called that is because somewhere along the line, a computer's user clicked a button or link giving the spyware company permission to install the malware.

Effects of Computer Viruses

The effect a virus is designed to inflict on a computer is known as its payload. Some, like the "Cookie Monster" virus mentioned above, are more annoying than harmful. But most are more destructive. Many will erase or corrupt vital documents or system files, and others seek to provide a way for hackers to gain unauthorized access to personal data such as names, addresses, passwords, credit card number, bank account statements, and so forth.

How to Protect Your Computer Against Viruses

• Keep informed about current virus trends.
• Get a good Virus Scanner and a Firewall
• Keep Windows Updated.
• Avoid downloads from questionable sources.
• Consider an alternative Web browser.
• Avoid Internet file sharing.

Get Protected

The importance of virus protection extends beyond your own computer's well-being. Without proper protection, your computer can become infected by malicious code that transforms it into a modern-day, electronic Typhoid Mary that infects other machines. Running an Internet-connected computer without a current virus scanner is simply irresponsible and endangers the Internet community at large, as well as causing needless headaches and expense to the infected machine's owner.

If Your Computer is already infected

Contact us as soon as possible before the damage becomes irreparable and more costly.