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Viruses |
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A computer virus is generally a piece of programming code that was designed, deliberately and maliciously, to spread without a computer user’s knowledge and perform some type of action the user did not intend. Viruses are typically spread through: 1. Diskettes, CD-ROMs Though software from reputable companies is generally safe, there have been instances where even shrink-wrapped software has been infected. Even in the worst-case scenario, a computer virus won’t permanently affect a computer’s hardware, but the results still can be frightening. A virus can make useless all the information on a hard drive and damage the computer to the extent that most users will need to take the system in for professional repair. Since
we can’t keep out computers isolated from the rest of the world, Galaxy recommends concerned users install anti-virus
software. While viruses can be annoying and even cause severe damage, anti-virus
software acts to prevent viruses from entering or infecting a computer. Norton,
McAfee, and Sophos all have excellent anti-virus
software packages for under $50. These are available online or from most computer
and office supply retailers. A
free version of AVG Antivirus is available. They are giving away a very capable free
version in the hopes that users will upgrade to their more advanced commercial version. Click
Here to access the Norton Encyclopedia of Viruses. This encyclopedia has information on virtually every virus that has
been detected along with advice and removal tools.
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