Viruses

what is a computer virus? | ways in which viruses are transferred | virus protection | antivirus software

What is a computer virus?

A computer virus is a program which is designed to harm the operation of another computer. Symptoms of a computer virus include erratic computer operation, data errors, loss of files and other nasty things. Computer viruses are not new; they have been around for many years.

Ways in which viruses are transferred:

• through email attachments (for more information click here.)

• by downloading files from the web through a web browser (for more information click here.)

• by using floppy disks and other storage devices to transfer files on to your computer.
  

Virus protection

To protect your computer and your work, you should:

• install anti virus software on to your computer, this automatically checks files before running them or reading them on your computer (see below for more information).

• regularly update this anti virus software as new viruses are discovered.

• perform regular virus scans on your hard drive and on any floppy disks you may be given to use.

• make sure your files do not have viruses before you send them to anyone else. The last thing you want to do is give a friend, another student or staff member a computer virus.
  

Anti virus software

There are many different types of anti virus software that you can buy. You may want to speak to your local computer dealer or look at information on the web about what is available. Below is a list of common anti virus software with links to the manufacturer's websites. Click on the links if you want to read more information about the software they provide.

McAfee AntiVirus http://www.mcafee.com
Nortons Antivirus http://www.symantec.com/nav/nav_9xnt/

ACTIVITY Read more information about viruses by clicking on the virus info site link below: http://www.sarc.com/avcenter/vinfodb.html