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.
Having a good antivirus program installed on your computer can be an excellent way to protect your system. Installing an antivirus program with a firewall can provide even more security. Make sure that you allow the program to make updates, as these help make your computer more secure. Updating to the latest version of your favorite browsers is also a good way to help prevent viruses. Antivirus programs cannot protect you from everything, but if you are cautious and have antivirus software in place, you are much less likely to become infected.
Of course, even the savvy user can acquire a pesky virus and when your computer is sick, it's often a good idea to call in the experts at GeeksAKnockin. They have a special guaranteed virus removal service that removes any type of malware, from viruses to spyware and more. In addition, they perform a security audit to identify your areas of vulnerability and also make sure that your computer is performing properly. They also will provide you with some tips and tricks to reduce your risk of security problems in the future.
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.
Having a good antivirus program installed on your computer can be an excellent way to protect your system. Installing an antivirus program with a firewall can provide even more security. Make sure that you allow the program to make updates, as these help make your computer more secure. Updating to the latest version of your favorite browsers is also a good way to help prevent viruses. Antivirus programs cannot protect you from everything, but if you are cautious and have antivirus software in place, you are much less likely to become infected.
Of course, even the savvy user can acquire a pesky virus and when your computer is sick, it's often a good idea to call in the experts at GeeksAKnockin. They have a special guaranteed virus removal service that removes any type of malware, from viruses to spyware and more. In addition, they perform a security audit to identify your areas of vulnerability and also make sure that your computer is performing properly. They also will provide you with some tips and tricks to reduce your risk of security problems in the future.
About the Author:
Frankline Bell loves writing reviews on computer repairs and support companies. For further 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 today.
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