Viruses that adversely affect computer systems today will not surprise anyone. But far from everyone knows how to recognize a threat on time even without the presence of security software installed in the system. Distinctive features of a computer virus are several basic signs, which we will discuss now.
What are computer viruses
Every person who uses a computer or mobile device in everyday life should know what viruses are.
If you look at the threats in general terms, they are special programs, applets or files with executable codes that lead to disruption of the systems themselves, theft or complete destruction of user data. There is a separate category of ransomware viruses, which first encrypt files, and then require payment for decryption.
Computer virus: varieties by effects
Among all the many threats that are known today, there are several main classes in which computer viruses are combined according to the degree and method of affecting the system.
On this basis, a classification of viruses can be made . But immediately it is worth saying that the list will be very conditional. It looks approximately as follows:
- harmless threats (the distinguishing features of a computer virus are the reduction of disk space on the hard drive and the use of too much RAM due to self-reproduction);
- non-dangerous viruses (mainly, in addition to reducing memory, use sound or video effects);
- dangerous programs (lead to freezing of computer systems and non-critical malfunctions);
- very dangerous applications and applets (they mean a complete failure of the system, destruction or modification of information, formatting of the hard disk or its logical partitions, theft of confidential information).
Habitat classification of viruses
There is an alternative classification. Analysis of modern computer viruses allows you to submit another list:
- file threats embedded in documents or programs;
- boot viruses affecting the boot sectors of operating systems;
- macro viruses that use executable commands, applets and macros in office documents, infecting the standard template;
- network threats spreading through the Internet and local networks.
Key Features of Computer Viruses
Now we will start the question of the features of such threats directly. Typically, the distinguishing features of a computer virus are the following factors:
- small amount of application or file with executable code;
- use of automatic self-start;
- Constant copying of embedded code for the purpose of cloning;
- creating interference in the operation of software and hardware components of a PC.
Scanning and protection tools
Based on the fact that the abovementioned factors are the main features of a computer virus, several lines can be devoted to means of protection against them.
To date, a lot of full-time or portable scanners have been developed. If we talk about viruses and anti-virus programs, it can be noted that software products of such developers as Kaspersky Lab, Dr. Web, Eset, etc. But such packages are paid, although it is possible to use trial versions with continuous activation for 30 days.
Free anti-virus utilities are also used, but sometimes they do not meet security requirements and are able not only to skip penetrating threats, but also cause conflicts at the hardware and software levels (lack of support for some drivers, inconsistency with the firewall application or even the "iron" firewall) .
In addition, such programs have completely different functionality. Some are capable of detecting and neutralizing viruses with executable codes that violate the OS, while others can get rid of spyware or mass mailing of advertising. And the saddest thing is that not a single product known today can cope with the decryption of user files, which is carried out by ransomware viruses using AES 1024 technology. This is even noted in Kaspersky Lab.
What to use for protection? It is best to install paid packages. Here you can be sure of 99.9% that the threat will be detected in a timely manner and will not harm the system or user information.
If you need a one-time scan for threats with obvious signs of infection, free portable utilities or special applications with the general name Rescue Disk are suitable. Just they are the most effective, since they start before the operating system boots up and even detect threats that cannot be detected in the usual way.
Instead of a total
As you can see, the distinguishing features of a computer virus are well-known signs (maybe someone just did not pay attention to them). Nevertheless, this brief information will be enough to notice the first signs of infection in time, if antivirus software is not provided in the system, although it is better to have it. And which package to choose depends on the user himself, the administrator of the computer terminal or network. Indeed, modern programs most often use heuristic analysis, and virus databases are updated even several times a day.