What is a computer virus, and did you know that the first computer virus was called the Creeper? In the early 1970s, two computer scientists, Bob Thomas and Ray Tomlinson, developed versions of the Creeper virus—one that couldn’t self-replicate and another that could. This marked the beginning of a new era in computer technology. As a response to these early threats, Tomlinson created the first-ever anti-virus software, called The Reaper, designed specifically to locate and remove the Creeper from infected systems (PC Insider).
This historic development laid the foundation for modern cybersecurity. What began as a simple digital experiment quickly evolved into a global concern, prompting the creation of more advanced protective tools as cyber threats became more widespread and sophisticated.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ins and outs of computer viruses—what they are, how they spread, and the steps you can take to protect your systems against them.
What is a Computer Virus?
A computer virus is a harmful program that attaches itself to files or software and spreads to other systems when those files are opened or shared. It can slow down your device, damage files, or even crash your system. Viruses usually spread through email attachments, downloaded programs, or risky websites. Using antivirus software and being cautious online can help keep your system safe.
Antivirus software was developed to address the growing threat of malicious programs on the internet. During the 1980s and 1990s, these tools became increasingly common for both businesses and home users. By the 2000s, antivirus protection had become essential for virtually every PC user.
So, what exactly is a computer virus? Much like an actual virus, they are designed to attach and spread themselves across hosts. The aim here is to disrupt systems and cause operational issues, like data loss and leakage. They can cause minor (but very annoying) issues like pop-up windows and email account hijacking – or more serious problems, like ransomware and theft of personal information. If you happen to notice any odd behavior from your computer after surfing the internet without protection, you could have a computer virus.
How Do Computer Viruses Spread?
Viruses used to attack through floppy disks and other physical, peripheral devices, but since the inception of the web they have started invading through wireless devices as well. They can spread from infected code in data packets that you inadvertently allow into your network. It cannot do all of this by itself, it needs a victim to open the program or data it has infected to execute its payload.
Viruses have also evolved to fill a niche in the modern world. They are more complex and devious than ever today. Everyone dreads ransomware and for good reason, it can be detrimental to your business. Trojans are another form of virus that look like the program you want but turn out to be something much more nefarious once it is executed.
How Can You Protect Your Computer from Virus Attacks?
There are several ways to protect yourself from threats like these.
First, just be cautious and ask questions if you aren’t sure of something. Our business hours are the same as yours, pick up the phone and reach out to us if something looks suspicious.
Second, you can scan your files by using a file sharing program. Be careful, because some unofficial sites can also be used to spread malware.
Third and more obviously, you will want to have an anti-virus installed on your computer.
Having an antivirus through a respected cyber security company is an invaluable resource in the fight against cyber-crime. Anti-virus software works by scanning specific files on your computer for malicious activity, and it does all the behind the scenes work so you don’t have to worry. That isn’t to say that it is a completely hands off experience, anti-viruses still need to be monitored.
Can Techno Advantage Help?
Let us monitor your system’s anti-virus software! Our solution uses a SOC (Security Operations Center) to keep an eye on your anti-virus activity 24/7, 365 days a year. The SOC monitors that activity and, if it notifies us of anything suspicious, we make the decision to remove the threat based on our knowledge of your network and user habits. This might sound costly or dramatic – but when someone tries to hack a system through ransomware at 5am, the SOC may quickly prove its worth.
You may prefer to manage your own anti-virus software, and any paid subscription anti-virus from a trusted vendor is better than no protection at all. Anti-viruses start at various price points, and they all offer something a little bit different. Premium products will get you features like secure online storage, ad blockers and file encryption!
Of course, if you have any questions at all, feel free to Contact Us! We are always happy to help you manage your network’s security – whether you find your own antivirus provider, or you hand that honor over to us and our SOC. Network Protection is our Priority!
