A virus is a piece of code that attaches itself to a program or file so it can spread from one system to another. It may damage software, files and even hardware. In order to replicate itself, a virus must be permitted to execute code and write to memory. For this reason, many viruses attach themselves to executable files that may be part of legitimate programs. If a user attempts to launch an infected program, the virus code may be executed simultaneously.

A virus can run as an application, therefore it can:

• Remotely access a computer, giving anyone complete control of the machine.
• Run as a background process, using internet connection to send private data anywhere, anytime.
• Delete files, run programs, edit registry and steal information.
• Corrupt Windows files to make a machine become unusable, causing it to crash and turn off at any time.
• Key log information such as passwords, usernames and credit card details.

Antivirus software is used to prevent, detect, and remove malware, including computer viruses, worms, and Trojan horses. A variety of strategies are typically employed by Antivirus software.

Go to Symantec Anti Virus to download the software for your personal computers.