Sunday, May 25, 2014

Computer Viruses: Some Helpful Information

By Frankline Bell


While everyone knows that computer viruses negatively affect our computers, how a virus works is not as commonly known, but it can be helpful to understand how this malware works and how to prevent it. Read on for information about viruses and how to keep them from clogging up your computer.

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.

The vast majority of computer users in the United States use a computer with a Windows operating system. For instance, many people have a PC with either Windows 7 or Windows 8. Because so many people use Windows, most viruses are created to attack these operating systems. So if you have a Mac or use Linux as your operating system, you are far less likely to encounter a virus simply because those creating viruses tend to focus on Windows where they ostensibly get more bang for their buck, so to speak. However there are viruses that attack Macs or Linux users, and those using software to emulate Windows might be susceptible to a Windows virus.

There are many ways to protect your computer from a virus. For one thing, resist the urge to click on pop-up ads, especially those that look like anti-virus software and claim that your computer is infected, as this is a scam and probably a virus. Also, be careful about the emails you open. If you don't recognize the sender or it's from a contact but is missing a subject line or the subject line looks odd, simply delete it and don't open the file. Many viruses are transmitted by email and even on social media sites, such as Facebook. In general, be very careful before you click on a link from anyone or download anything from the internet.

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.




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