How To Protect Yourself  From Computer Viruses

Many years ago the internet and computers where an exciting thing. They still are, however something changed, and this change was due to the invention of the computer virus. We are not going into the history of the computer viruses, we will instead focus on how to protect yourself and your equipment. There are over 100 computer viruses and there are more being produced all the time.

What is a Computer Virus?

Its a computer progam that copies itself and then infects your computer without permission or your knowledge. There are metamorphic viruses that can modify programs on your system. Viruses spread from one computer to another via networks, disc, and USB devices and the internet.A virus can infect many files on a network which other computers share, so these computers become infected too.

Trojan horse

also known as a trojan, is malware that appears to perform a desirable function but in fact performs undisclosed malicious functions. Therefore, a computer worm or virus may be a Trojan horse. The term is derived from the classical story of the Trojan Horse.

Malware

also known as Malicious Software, is software designed to infiltrate or damage a computer without the owner's consent. not Not all malware are viruses viruses designed to damage your system. Some are used to look at your private information and then transmit it to criminals. Malware can give individuals control over your computer and access to sensitive information.

What Is Spyware?

Spyware is computer software that is installed in secret on your computer to intercept or take partial control over your  interaction with your computer.While the term spyware suggests software that secretly monitors the user's behavior, the functions of spyware extend well beyond simple monitoring. Spyware programs can collect various types of personal information, such as Internet surfing habit, sites that have been visited, but can also interfere with user control of the computer in other ways, such as installing additional software, redirecting Web browser activity, accessing websites blindly that will cause more harmful viruses, or diverting advertising revenue to a third party. Spyware can even change computer settings, resulting in slow connection speeds, different home pages, and loss of Internet or other programs.

How To Protect Yourself

There are various ways viruses could be transmitted to your computer, most of them occur using the internet.

Simple steps to follow

1. Don't download any programs or emails you aren't expecting. To the best of your ability try to determine if your friends, family colleagues have a safe system.

2.Disable auto launch for your emails, and disable the option to launch graphics automatically.

Install anti-virus software.

Keep your anti-virus software up-to-date.

Install a personal firewall

Use Windows / Apple / Linux updates to patch security holes.

Don't open email messages that look suspicious

Don't click on email attachments you were not expecting

Install security patches. Vulnerabilities in software are constantly being discovered and they don't discriminate by vendor or platform. It's not simply a matter of updating Windows; at least monthly, check for and apply updates for all software you use.

Anti Virus Software Packages

Zone Alarm - ZoneAlarm Pro 7 augments your existing Antivirus solutions. ZoneAlarm Pro adds powerful, multi-layered security and additional protection. Includes Operating System Firewall, Network and Program Firewall, Anti-Spyware, Identity Theft Protection. The latest release improves the Operating System Firewall and applies more robust spyware detection and removal functions.

Information from ZoneAlarm

Norton Internet Security - Stay protected from the latest online threats when connecting to the Web. Norton Internet Security 2007 is always running in the background to detect and block spyware, viruses, worms, phishing Web sites, and hackers before they can cause harm. Now you can browse online, download software, or exchange emails knowing you're protected from viruses and spyware. Norton Internet Security also provides advanced phishing protection, two-way firewall protection, and optimized network security so you can safely log on at home, at a cafe, or on the road. In addition to protection updates, Norton Internet Security provides new product features as available throughout your service subscription. Version 2008 improves performance.

Information from Symantec

There is much more information on the internet about computer viruses, malware and trojans. We have covered the basics for you. Hope it helps.

(c) 2008, www.MyLaptopSpares.co.uk