Computer virus - Wikipedia
WebA computer virus [1] is a type of malware that, when executed, replicates itself by modifying other computer programs and inserting its own code into those programs. [2] [3] If this replication succeeds, the affected areas are then said to be "infected" with a computer virus, a metaphor derived from biological viruses.
Computer Virus: What are Computer Viruses?
WebComputer viruses spread across systems, infecting programs & files with malicious code. Learn to scan for viruses (and try our free virus scanner), remove viruses, and protect your computer against future infections.
What Is a Computer Virus? - Lifewire
WebMay 1, 2020 · A computer virus is a type of program that attaches itself to a host with the intention of multiplying and spreading to other computers. Here's a computer virus definition, virus examples, and more.
What are Computer Viruses? | Definition & Types of Viruses
WebA computer virus is a type of malicious software, or malware, that spreads between computers and causes damage to data and software. Computer viruses aim to disrupt systems, cause major operational issues, and result in data loss and leakage.
What Is a Computer Virus? | Definition & Types of Viruses | AVG
WebDec 18, 2017 · A computer virus is a program or piece of code designed to damage your computer by corrupting system files, wasting resources, destroying data or otherwise being a nuisance. Viruses are unique from other forms of malware in that they are self-replicating — capable of copying themselves across files or other computers without a user's consent.
Computer viruses: How they spread and tips to avoid them
WebUpdated: February 29, 2024 6 min read. A computer virus is a malicious code or program designed to spread from one computer to another, causing damage to data and system operations. Learn how viruses work, signs to look out for, and the main types.
Computer viruses explained: Definition, types, and examples
WebApr 28, 2022 · A computer virus is a form of malicious software that piggybacks onto legitimate application code in order to spread and reproduce itself. Like other types of...
What Is a Computer Virus? | Computer Virus Definition | Avast
WebAug 31, 2022 · A computer virus is a type of malware that attaches itself to other programs, self-replicates, and spreads from one computer to another. When a virus infects a computer, it makes copies of itself and attaches to other files or documents. It then modifies those files and continues to spread.
Computer virus | Definition & Facts | Britannica
WebApr 8, 2024 · computer virus, a portion of a computer program code that has been designed to furtively copy itself into other such codes or computer files. It is usually created by a prankster or vandal to effect a nonutilitarian result or to destroy data and program code or, in the case of ransomware, to extort payment.
What is a computer virus? Definition & how they work | Norton
WebFeb 26, 2024 · In simple terms, a computer virus is a malicious code or program designed to spread from one computer to another, similar to how a flu virus spreads from host to host. In today's digital age, the term "computer virus" is widely known and associated with potential harm and security risks.
Skip to content