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Computer Fi Vilrus

A computer virus is a type of malware that replicates itself and spreads to other devices, often corrupting data, slowing performance, or stealing information. There are various types of viruses, including file infector, macro, boot sector, polymorphic, and resident viruses, each with distinct methods of operation. Prevention strategies include using antivirus software, avoiding suspicious emails, and regularly backing up data.

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4 views2 pages

Computer Fi Vilrus

A computer virus is a type of malware that replicates itself and spreads to other devices, often corrupting data, slowing performance, or stealing information. There are various types of viruses, including file infector, macro, boot sector, polymorphic, and resident viruses, each with distinct methods of operation. Prevention strategies include using antivirus software, avoiding suspicious emails, and regularly backing up data.

Uploaded by

mwalegisa
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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A computer virus is a type of malicious software—or *malware*—designed to replicate itself and

spread from one device to another, often without the user’s knowledge. It works by inserting its
code into legitimate programs or files, so when those are opened, the virus activates and begins its
work.

### How It Works

A virus typically needs a host file to function. Once that file is executed, the virus code runs and can:

- Corrupt or delete data

- Slow down system performance

- Steal sensitive information

- Spread to other systems via networks, USB drives, or email attachments

Some viruses are relatively harmless, while others can cause catastrophic damage, such as wiping
out entire hard drives or disabling critical infrastructure.

### Types of Computer Viruses

- **File Infector Viruses**: Attach themselves to executable files and activate when the file is run.

- **Macro Viruses**: Target applications like Microsoft Word or Excel by embedding malicious code
in macros.

- **Boot Sector Viruses**: Infect the master boot record and activate when the system starts up.

- **Polymorphic Viruses**: Change their code slightly each time they spread, making them harder to
detect.

- **Resident Viruses**: Install themselves in memory and can operate even after the original host
file is deleted.

### History and Evolution

The concept of a self-replicating program was first theorized by John von Neumann in 1949. The first
real-world virus, “Creeper,” appeared in the early 1970s. Since then, viruses have evolved from
simple pranks to sophisticated tools used in cyberwarfare and organized crime.

### Signs of Infection

- Sluggish system performance

- Frequent crashes or error messages

- Unusual pop-ups or programs launching on their own


- Emails being sent without your knowledge

- Files disappearing or becoming corrupted

### Prevention and Protection

- Use reputable antivirus software and keep it updated

- Avoid opening suspicious emails or downloading unknown attachments

- Regularly back up important data

- Keep your operating system and applications patched and up to date

If you’d like, I can also explain how viruses differ from other malware like worms and trojans, or how
antivirus software detects and removes them. Want to go deeper?

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