What Is a Computer Virus?

A computer virus is a program designed to disrupt a computer's functions. In most cases, a computer virus is a small file of which users are unaware until their units have already been infiltrated by it. This is because a virus is typically embedded in most commonly used executable programs or files such as Word or Excel. Once you open any of these applications that have been used as a platform for the virus, then it will consequently run the embedded virus and infect your computer system. Some are written to target data by destroying or deleting files from your computer's memory, others are programmed to deliver messages in pop up windows, and some even cause a computer to perform unreliably at first before completely crashing. The real distinguishing feature of a computer virus is that it can make copies of itself.

There are different types of computer viruses and each behaves in a unique way. Some only perform the damage they have been designed to do when an executable program such as Word is used. Most do not execute their functions as long as the computer is turned off. There have been others though who can ruin all the installed programs in your computer even when it is not connected to any power source.

Several individuals have lost important data from their computers. Others have to go through the tedious process of re-installing their computer's operating systems. Those who are not confident enough to perform troubleshooting on their own computer systems have to bear weeks of delay while their computer is in repair. Meanwhile those extremely unfortunate end up shouldering large costs to purchase new hardware.

Prevention is still the key to protecting your computer system. As more and more computer viruses are created every single day, it is very crucial to install a reliable anti-virus program on your personal computer. And it should not just stop there. You have to make sure that the anti-virus software is updated on a regular basis. An up-to-date anti-virus program assures that newer types of viruses are positively detected.

Computer virus creators use the Internet to perpetuate their unscrupulous practices. Since downloading from the World Wide Web has become a common and widespread practice among many Internet users, it should always be a standard routine to check all downloaded files for potential viruses. Opening of email messages from questionable sources should be avoided at all times. Even instant messaging applications capable of delivering file attachments are used to spread computer viruses. It would be a good safeguard to not open any unless you are sure about the source of such file attachments.