How a Computer Virus Works

A detailed Summary of How a Computer Virus Works


Anyone who has ever used a computer has more than likely run into some sort of problem. In some cases these problems are caused by what is known as a computer virus. When we hear the word virus, we usually think of some thing that makes us sick. If you have ever had a virus on your PC, you probably find the name virus quite appropriate. Believe it or not, a virus is just another type of software. They are what some call malicious software. Viruses are miniature programs that duplicate themselves and attach their replicas to other programs and documents. So where do viruses come from? Some people enjoy painting on paper and others enjoy painting on public and private structures. What does this have to do with computer viruses you ask? Just like graffiti is a destructive way for artists to show of their artistic talent, viruses are a destructive way for computer programmers to show of theirs.

In order for a virus to take its malicious course, it first has to enter your computer. Because sharing of information is one of the many benefits of computer's, this is e


There are two ways to protect your self from a virus. The first is, simply knowing what viruses are and where they come from. The second is Anti virus software. Just owning the software is not enough. You must have a little understanding of how it works. This computer saving software works by keeping a database of "signatures" of known viruses. Each signature is a set of characteristic bytes particular to a virus. When these bytes are encountered in a file, the software not only knows that the computer is infected with a virus, it also knows which one and how to eradicate it. Because new viruses are created every day, it is important that when you purchase your anti-virus software that you also purchase the updates. With out these updates your software will not be able to identify the loads of new viruses created every day.

Even though the virus is in the computer, it does not begin its destruction until action is taken in the spot where the virus is located. Let's assume the virus is attached to an e-mail attachment. You would first have to open the attachment for the v

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 726
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Technology

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