What Is A Computer Virus ?

As the name suggest, a computer virus is a malicious code that is intended to change the behavior of computer systems and programs. A virus works by embedding or joining itself to a real program or file and execute its code. Meanwhile, a virus can possibly cause startling or harming impacts. It can damage the whole computer software and the data stored in it.

TYPES OF COMPUTER VIRUSES

There are almost one million computer viruses in the world and many more are under process. They are designed to harm the computer systems and damage the sensitive information. Some of the types of viruses are:

1. Boot Sector Virus

This virus takes place through USB or when you power on or boot your computer.

2. Web Scripting Virus

These viruses propagate through web pages. It means when you move on that particular web page with virus, it can affect your system.

3. Resident Virus

Resident virus resides in your RAM and they can even attach themselves to the antivirus software,

4. Multipartite Virus

This virus occurs when you perform irrelevant actions on your system’s operating system. it can harm your whole computer system.

5. Browser Hijacker

This virus hijacks a website and it automatically intends you towards some random web page even if you have not searched for it.

6. Direct Action Virus

It is a most common virus and it appears only when you open the infected file.

7. Polymorphic Virus

Polymorphic virus is intelligent enough to change its code each time when it is executed, to ditch the antivirus program.

8. File Infector Virus

This virus injects the harmful code into useful files and it harms it functionality.

9. Macro Virus

This is the most common type of viruses and they can harm the system by simple macros language. Macro virus can infect your system through email and when you open any file.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR COMPUTER FROM VIRUSES

Most of us had to deal with malicious viruses in our routine. It is a very hectic and frustrating task and people wish to avoid facing such viruses. Here are some useful ways to avoid viruses.

  • Install reliable and good antivirus software.
  • Update your antivirus software regularly for new functionalities.
  • Avoid clicking on pop-up windows or advertisements.
  • Keep current operating system
  • Check that your network is secured
  • Make a backup of your personal information
  • Avoid using Wi-Fi that is without password
  • Use strong passwords with special characters
  • Scan your downloaded files immediately after downloading
  • Scan your emails before opening them

SIGNS THAT YOUR COMPUTER IS UNDER ATTACK

An infected computer system is highlighted very easily due to its known signs and symptoms. Some of the signs are as follows:

  • Slow performance
  • Unusual pop-up windows
  • Frequent window crashes
  • Huge number of emails
  • Unknown programs starts when you power on your computer
  • Changes to your home page icons and settings
  • Password changes of various applications
  • System hangs on

CONCLUSION

Computer virus can harm and damage your system software. Moreover, it can refrain you from performing essential tasks on your PC. On the other hand, if you detect the virus early and make possible measures to avoid their circumstances, it can save you from several problems.