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.
A virus is simply a piece of code that is placed into a data file. In our bodies, a virus attaches to cells and replicates inside of them, spreading the virus from cell to cell. It works much the same way in a computer, replicating itself and infecting many parts of a computer. It might affect different computer programs or perhaps corrupt data files or even steal CPU time or hard disk space. Sometimes, a virus can actually steal your passwords and usernames. Sometimes, they will access the contact list in your email and send out emails from you containing the virus. This has the potential to spread the virus to other computers.
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.
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.
While no one wants a computer infected with viruses or other malware, it happens. When your system has been compromised, simply contact the computer repair specialists at GeeksAKnockin. They have a comprehensive virus and spyware removal service and for one flat fee, they generally remove all malware within 90 minutes or less. The service includes the removal of malicious software, a security audit to check for areas of vulnerability and a system check to make sure the computer is running normally. In addition, they will check and see that all Microsoft and third party security patches have been installed and provide you with information about how to keep your PC protected.
A virus is simply a piece of code that is placed into a data file. In our bodies, a virus attaches to cells and replicates inside of them, spreading the virus from cell to cell. It works much the same way in a computer, replicating itself and infecting many parts of a computer. It might affect different computer programs or perhaps corrupt data files or even steal CPU time or hard disk space. Sometimes, a virus can actually steal your passwords and usernames. Sometimes, they will access the contact list in your email and send out emails from you containing the virus. This has the potential to spread the virus to other computers.
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.
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.
While no one wants a computer infected with viruses or other malware, it happens. When your system has been compromised, simply contact the computer repair specialists at GeeksAKnockin. They have a comprehensive virus and spyware removal service and for one flat fee, they generally remove all malware within 90 minutes or less. The service includes the removal of malicious software, a security audit to check for areas of vulnerability and a system check to make sure the computer is running normally. In addition, they will check and see that all Microsoft and third party security patches have been installed and provide you with information about how to keep your PC protected.
About the Author:
Frankline Bell enjoys writing reviews on computer repairs and support companies. For more details about the best computer repair Gresham Oregon professionals or to find out more about computer repair Hillsboro Oregon services, please go to the GeeksAKnockin.com site now.
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