Virus
A virus is a computer program that copies itself and inserts itself into another program, spreading from one file to another, when copied, these can be transferred to yet another computer and all of this without the knowledge of the user.
A virus will infect by using a host to gain access
- Exe files
- VB Scripts
- Windows Scripts
- Document Macros
When a virus inserts itself into an .exe file, and this program runs, then the virus will execute and spread, it overwrites an existing program .exe files so that they are harder to detect. A virus will replicate itself to the point of no repair if left for long periods without user interaction or removal.
There are good free antivirus programs available for virus removal e.g. Avast, AVG and Commodo to name a few, but the paid versions have all the bells and whistles, and do not cost much to buy. However, keep in mind that much will depend on the type of computer you are using. For example: for most home networks, most of the AntiVirus programs are a great option, but when you want to protect Work-Station computers in a larger network, then, a different line of defense is needed. Talk to us to learn more (07) 3613 0029
Trojan
A Trojan is an application that initially looks like it is harmless, but has malicious code that does what it was written to do, often associated with things like deleting files, overwriting hard-drives, or being used to provide remote access.
What a Trojan can do
- keylogging
- File Deletion
- Remote Access (Backdoor)
The main difference between a virus and a trojan is that trojans don’t replicate, they get installed by the user mostly unbeknown to them. Most Antivirus programs will detect these Trojans during a scan or install process.
