Computer viruses are malicious software programs designed to harm, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to your computer system. There are various types of viruses, each with unique ways of infecting systems and carrying out their malicious tasks. Here’s an overview of the most common types:
1. File Virus
These viruses attach themselves to executable files or programs. When you run the infected program, the virus is activated, which may delete files, corrupt data, or spread to other programs.
2. Macro Virus
Macro viruses target macros — automated sequences within documents (like Word or Excel files). They often spread via email attachments or infected documents, executing malicious scripts when opened.
3. Boot Sector Virus
These viruses infect the boot sector of a hard drive or a disk. They activate during the startup process, making them particularly difficult to detect and remove. They can prevent the system from booting properly.
4. Multipartite Virus
A combination of file and boot sector viruses, multipartite viruses infect both the executable files and the boot sector, making them hard to eradicate.
5. Polymorphic Virus
These viruses change their code or appearance each time they infect a new file, making them difficult for antivirus software to detect using traditional signature-based methods.
6. Resident Virus
Resident viruses embed themselves into the memory of the infected computer. They stay active even after the host program is closed and can infect other files or programs as they are opened.
7. Worms
Although technically a bit different from viruses, worms are standalone malware that replicate themselves across networks, often spreading rapidly without user intervention. They can cause significant damage or slow down systems.
8. Ransomware
Ransomware encrypts your files and demands payment to restore access. It’s a particularly destructive type of malware that often travels via phishing emails.
Understanding these different types of viruses helps you recognize potential threats and take proactive steps to protect your devices. Always keep your antivirus software updated, avoid opening suspicious emails or downloads, and back up important data regularly to stay safe from these malicious attacks.