A virus is a small piece of software that piggybacks on real programs. For example, a virus might attach itself to a program such as a spreadsheet program. Each time the spreadsheet program runs, the virus runs aswell and it has the chance to reproduce (by attaching to other programs) or wreak havoc.

Types of Virus

E-mail viruses - An e-mail virus moves around in e-mail messages, and usually replicates itself by automatically mailing itself to dozens of people in the victim's e-mail address book.

Worms - A worm is a small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself. A copy of the worm scans the network for another machine that has a specific security hole. It copies itself to the new machine using the security hole, and then starts replicating from there, as well.

Trojan horses - A Trojan horse is simply a computer program. The program claims to do one thing (it may claim to be a game) but instead does damage when you run it (it may erase your hard drive). Trojan horses have no way to replicate automatically.

The spreading part is the infection phase of the virus. Viruses wouldn't be so despised if all they did was replicate themselves. Unfortunately, most viruses also have some sort of destructive attack phase where they do some damage. Some sort of trigger will activate the attack phase, and the virus will then "do something" -- anything from printing a silly message on the screen to erasing all of your data. The trigger might be a specific date, the number of times the virus has been replicated, or something similar.

What is Anti-Virus Software?

Anti-Virus software is installed on your computer to help keep viruses out. It runs in the background each time you start your computer and monitors your internet connection and hard drive for the presence of viruses. If it finds any, it will remove them. The program contains a database of fingerprints for known viruses so it can identify them if they are present on your computer. Therefore it is very important to keep Anti-Virus software updated so it will detect new viruses as they are discovered.

It is also very important to keep your Operating System (Windows) updated. Microsoft are constantly releasing updates for it's software to patch security vulnerabilities which it discovers. Many viruses take advantage of these security holes to get into your system.

Symptoms of Infection

The first port of call for some viruses is to attack your Anti-Virus software and disable it in some way. This gives it free reign on your computer and also allows other viruses onto your system. So, if you have Anti-Virus software installed but it is not functioning properly or not at all, chances are you have a virus. This is why installing Anti-Virus software without first removing any infection which may be present seldom works.

Other symptoms are:

• Computer won't start up or takes a long time to start up.
• Attempts to connect to the internet when it starts up or while you are using it.
• Computer is slow to shutdown or "hangs" during shutdown.
• Internet connection is slow and frequently disconnects.
• Will not connect to the internet at all.
• Computer runs very slowly and locks up frequently.

 

What will I do for you?

1. Discuss the symptoms you are experiencing.
2. Test your computer for the presence of viruses (Free).
3. Contact you with your options and an estimate of the cost of removal.
4. Complete the removal process if instructed to do so.

I can also install Anti-Virus software or update your existing software. Your Operating System can also be updated with all the latest patches and Service Packs as part of this service.

 

 

No repair work is carried without first informing you of the cost. This includes any other faults which may be found while repairing the initial problem. The cost of any new parts which may be required for the repair will be included in the estimate given. If new parts are required only top quality, brand new parts will be used.

I service and repair all models and brands of desktop computers, laptops and printers. I also manufacture new computers that are custom built to your specification and budget. Click on Wizard Computers for more information.

You will be informed of the cost of repair before any work is carried so there will be no surprises. There is no charge for diagnostics, so if the computer is uneconomical to repair or is unrepairable, there is no charge.

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