Virus

A computer virus is a type of malicious software program designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems. Much like a biological virus, it attaches itself to files or programs and spreads when those files are executed or shared. Viruses can corrupt data, slow down systems, steal sensitive information, or create backdoors for further attacks.
They are commonly transmitted through infected email attachments, malicious downloads, removable media, or compromised websites. While traditional viruses are less common today compared to other types of malware, they remain an important concept in cybersecurity and a foundation for understanding modern threats.
Advanced
Viruses operate by injecting malicious code into legitimate programs, which then execute the payload when the host program runs. They may be file infectors, macro viruses, boot sector viruses, or polymorphic viruses that change code to avoid detection. Advanced viruses can use stealth techniques, encrypt themselves, or disable security software to prolong infection.
Modern cybersecurity defenses rely on antivirus software, endpoint detection and response (EDR), intrusion detection systems, and behavioral analytics to identify and neutralize viruses. Signature-based detection alone is no longer sufficient, as many viruses evolve into more complex forms of malware such as worms, trojans, and ransomware.
Relevance
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Example
A university experienced a virus outbreak through infected email attachments. The virus corrupted files across faculty computers, forcing the IT team to shut down systems for recovery. Afterward, the university enforced stricter email filtering, updated antivirus software, and provided staff training to prevent recurrence.