A computer virus is code that takes advantage of another program or document and then replicates itself or carries out the instructions programmed by the author of that virus.
Computer viruses became famous in the early 1990s with the widespread availability and use of PCs. In those days, subscribers could call up a bulletin board and download documents or programs as they wished. However, some of those computer downloads came at a price: a computer virus.
An unsuspecting user would open a document or launch a program and inadvertently launch the virus as well. The virus would then replicate indefinitely or wait for an event to “trigger” its attack. This could be as simple as putting a smiley face on a desktop to wipe your entire hard drive.
They have become a bigger threat today. A common variant of a computer virus called a Worm can penetrate security flows in an operating system or network and overwhelm it, causing operations to halt or even halt.
Considering the immense havoc that computer viruses can wreak, an entire industry exists to contain this threat in the form of antivirus software and Internet security services.
3 ways to protect your PC
A. Install a firewall:
A firewall will prevent unauthorized people or hackers from having easy access to your computer. If they have access, they could upload and download programs, steal your personal information, or wipe your drives.
B. Install operating system updates:
Most operating system manufacturers, including Microsoft, can send you regular updates. These have specific uses: to improve the performance of your system; address compatibility issues; and above all, to repair previously undetected security flaws in the system. Installing these updates eliminates quite a few security issues for the end user.
C. Install antivirus software:
As computer viruses have grown exponentially, so has the software to keep them at bay. Both the online and offline markets are filled with countless software to protect your computer. Installing a good antivirus program on your computer can greatly reduce the headaches and frustration that follow a typical computer virus attack. They can detect, remove or quarantine viruses to keep your PC running smoothly.
If you think your computer is infected, there are many affordable downloadable resources online to protect your PC. Some online virus protection software. Some of them also offer a free virus scan.
