What is a virus?
A virus is a program or a segment of executable code which is designed to replace or substitute another program, so it can reproduce without the user knowing it. I know that seems not very harmful, but it may be. Many viruses can delete software or important information. Others can log keystrokes to steal personal information or passwords. Some virus even attack the PC boot sector and prevent it from starting at all. Viruses, such as technology are always changing and becoming more difficult to detect and remove.
How do you get a virus?
Expose your computer to the internet without adequate protection is the most common way. You give free access around the world on your computer. Your files, contacts, addresses and all other stored information can be stolen. Other ways to get a virus are by email and attachments of accounts that you do not know or the (supposedly) free software download from the internet. You can acquire same virus if you are protected, but it is less common.
How to protect your computer against viruses?
The thing I learned the most important is to ensure that you are cleaning of your computer on a regular basis and keep the definitions updated with reliable software. Most software of this nature you will have to pay for, but it is worth the investment. There are some free software out there, but I advise any person seeking to be extremely careful with this. Given that the software is free you never know what you get and how it works until it is too late. I recommend that a proactive approach and encourages you to get out of the research and to read reviews of anti-virus and anti-spyware programs and do not buy something just because it is less or more expensive.
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