We all have heard of computer viruses and, of course, we know they aren't a good thing to have on one's computer, but most of us don't really know how a virus works. Here is some basic information about computer viruses and some helpful tips for preventing viruses and even finding a cure.
Basically, a virus is a computer program and like all programs, it is created with code. Within the code, there is a piece of it that is designed to attach to files or programs and replicate. This means it keeps replicating and attaching to more and more files or programs or begins to clog up your hard drive space or slow down the CPU or central processor of the computer. There are even viruses that are designed to seek out and steal passwords. Many viruses are spread via email, and the virus gets into your email and begins sending out emails to all of your contacts. These emails also contain the virus and it just spreads further and continues to infect more and more users.
Microsoft Windows, which is the mostly widely used operating system, is most often the target of those who create these viruses, and that is simply because there are more people to infect. Apple Macintosh users, Linux users and those who use other operating systems have often felt immune to virus and malware attacks, but this is not necessarily true. While there are certainly fewer viruses out there written specifically for Macs or Linux, they do exist. Also, if you use a program that was created to emulate a Windows operating system, you often can be at risk for various Windows viruses.
While there are millions of viruses out there, preventing them is not as difficult as you might think. Take email, for example, which is where we encounter many viruses. Often a friend or contact will send an email with a corrupted link on it. Click on this link and you are downloading a virus to your computer. The virus will then attach to your entire contact list and send the email to each one of your contacts. So, it is wise to not click on any email or link within an email unless you trust that it is legitimate. If an email looks odd, it probably is, so just delete it rather than risking infection. Pop-up ads are another hot spot for viruses and clicking on these can definitely cause a virus to get downloaded to your system. Anytime an ad promises something too good to be true or claims that your computer is infected, it's all a scam.
It is always wise to install antivirus software and a firewall on your computer. This constantly blocks predators and scans regularly for malware. It is important that you also complete all of the updates that the antivirus program asks you to make. These updates make the program more secure. Be sure to also update your browser to the newest version when you are asked to do so, as these updates not only deal with issues regarding the ease of use, they also often are security updates. Combining caution with an antivirus program drastically can reduce your virus risk.
If you have a computer that has been infected, it can be a good idea to call in a professional service to clean up your system. At GeeksAKnockin, for example, the spyware and virus removal service includes the removal of all malicious software, they perform a comprehensive security audit to identify any vulnerability, they evaluate your system to ensure it is performing normally and they provide information to help you make sure that your PC is protected against future security issues.
Basically, a virus is a computer program and like all programs, it is created with code. Within the code, there is a piece of it that is designed to attach to files or programs and replicate. This means it keeps replicating and attaching to more and more files or programs or begins to clog up your hard drive space or slow down the CPU or central processor of the computer. There are even viruses that are designed to seek out and steal passwords. Many viruses are spread via email, and the virus gets into your email and begins sending out emails to all of your contacts. These emails also contain the virus and it just spreads further and continues to infect more and more users.
Microsoft Windows, which is the mostly widely used operating system, is most often the target of those who create these viruses, and that is simply because there are more people to infect. Apple Macintosh users, Linux users and those who use other operating systems have often felt immune to virus and malware attacks, but this is not necessarily true. While there are certainly fewer viruses out there written specifically for Macs or Linux, they do exist. Also, if you use a program that was created to emulate a Windows operating system, you often can be at risk for various Windows viruses.
While there are millions of viruses out there, preventing them is not as difficult as you might think. Take email, for example, which is where we encounter many viruses. Often a friend or contact will send an email with a corrupted link on it. Click on this link and you are downloading a virus to your computer. The virus will then attach to your entire contact list and send the email to each one of your contacts. So, it is wise to not click on any email or link within an email unless you trust that it is legitimate. If an email looks odd, it probably is, so just delete it rather than risking infection. Pop-up ads are another hot spot for viruses and clicking on these can definitely cause a virus to get downloaded to your system. Anytime an ad promises something too good to be true or claims that your computer is infected, it's all a scam.
It is always wise to install antivirus software and a firewall on your computer. This constantly blocks predators and scans regularly for malware. It is important that you also complete all of the updates that the antivirus program asks you to make. These updates make the program more secure. Be sure to also update your browser to the newest version when you are asked to do so, as these updates not only deal with issues regarding the ease of use, they also often are security updates. Combining caution with an antivirus program drastically can reduce your virus risk.
If you have a computer that has been infected, it can be a good idea to call in a professional service to clean up your system. At GeeksAKnockin, for example, the spyware and virus removal service includes the removal of all malicious software, they perform a comprehensive security audit to identify any vulnerability, they evaluate your system to ensure it is performing normally and they provide information to help you make sure that your PC is protected against future security issues.
About the Author:
Frankline Bell loves writing reviews on computer repairs and support companies. For more details about the best computer repair Gresham Oregon professionals or to find out more about computer repair Hillsboro Oregon services, please check out the GeeksAKnockin website now.
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