The Tangled Web Of Virus Affliction And Removal

Getting rid of a virus is a complex carnival of searching and challenging, rivaled only in complexity by getting the virus in the first place. Although some people assume that removal is as simple as clicking a few buttons in their favorite anti-virus program, they may not appreciate the work that goes into making every anti-virus update potent--or aware that the virus may not be completely removed. To gain a deeper understanding of the virus battle and a bit of peace of mind by knowing what is truly at stake, consider the intricate details of the world of computer viruses.

Viruses Aren't Completely Removed? What?

Out of sight, out of mind is the name of the game. Although it's best to remove all traces of a virus--and truly, some viruses require deep removal in order to be eradicated--not all virus removal programs can perform this feat. It isn't always a question of quality; some complex viruses may simply be too new and too innovative to be removed completely.

The shady techniques of viruses involve creating harmless files that won't show up on scans. Viruses are detected by searching for patterns, or looking for invalid programming techniques that may suggest a dangerous piece of code. It's already an old technique for viruses to bring in harmless, legitimate files meant to trick users.

One of the many techniques involves creating text documents, webpage links or changing the homepage of your Internet browser. The idea is to get you to go to the browser again, either out of curiosity or by creating a trap that you have to step into. Many virus protection suites include ways to change browsers back to their default settings, and may delete any files that were created after the infection began.

The problem is that virus design will often be ahead of virus removal because of the nature of the challenge. The virus is made first, and unless it is similar to past viruses, a response has to be developed.

How Did The Virus Get There In The First Place?

This question is often on the minds of computer owners every time a virus strikes. Did they do it? Was it a spouse? A friend? A child? There's not many ways to know how an infection began unless there's a camera recording everyone's actions, or if the virus wants to make its cause known as a matter of shame.

Unfortunately, if you're not used to getting and removing computer viruses, you won't have a clue whether or not you did something wrong. Many computer owners think that they're doing everything normally and safely, but the truth is that safe browsing is a trained, practiced effort that doesn't happen on its own. Websites spawning viruses may look shady, but can also seem more authentic than legitimate sites since virus developers maintain many computer skills.

The key is to know what you're downloading and where you're browsing. Don't go by appearance, but by peer review and by checking each site with a security service. Using popular search engines can reduce accidental infections, exposing you only to the most nefarious viruses that even experts would be exposed to.

If you'd like a recommendation for virus removal programs and best browsing practices, or would like a professional to repair your system, contact a desktop, mobile device or laptop repair professional.

To learn more, contact a company like Computer Exchange.