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I have spent a lot of time throughout the years researching and collecting facts and stimulus materials on the topic of Computer Viruses. Recently when I was watching my regular TED talk on my phone I watched this talk by Mikko Hypponen. I found it fascinating for the way in which he not only explores and shows some of the history of viruses but also talks of the social and ethical implications of the contemporary viruses being releases. He explores the use of viruses from a cyber-crime and organised-crime perspective.

Computer viruses are programs which are created with the sole intent of disrupting the operation of a computer. These computer viruses are usually placed into computers without the permission or knowledge of the person who owns the computer.

Despite updated operating system, browser, browser add-ons, installed firewall, and acute computer security settings, clever viruses, spyware or Trojans may find loop-holes to slip into your system. Not only in terms of performance, but in terms of stability and security too, these malicious software push you on back-foot. What to do next?

I've included every type of computer virus in this article that I felt was relevant, but this isn't a list of every type of virus known to man. Also, I did not include any worms or trojans, two common threats that are similar to viruses but technically not the same. If there is a specific type of virus that you feel was missed and is important, let us know in the comments.

This video explains the how computer viruses, worms and trojans work and what you can do to protect yourself.

Malware, as you know is a class of malicious software such as spyware, adware, or viruses that compromise with the system's performance and security. And in majority of cases they infiltrate through general Internet activities --- browsing, surfing, and downloading, or executing programs or files. Hence, most of the virus or malware defense methods are based on encouraging secure Internet access. Though, virus or malware authors are using astute development techniques, keeping a keen eye on the behavior of your machine, can be helpful in winning the battle of computer security. Following are a few notable symptoms, which can be perceived as an indication of virus or malware attack:

Is your computer infected with a virus that is preventing you from downloading security updates from the Internet or from running any antivirus program on that machine? Or are your looking for an antivirus software that can be carried on a USB drive to quickly scan any disconnected computer(s) for viruses or malware?

Viruses, spyware and malware are some of the serious issues related to computer. Without your permission, if your Internet program is tracking and sending information back to a third party then your computer must be spyware infected. Let's uncover some essential tips to protect against spyware.

Sometimes being unaware of the USB virus-or malware-infection, you may put your computer security at stake. The AutoPlay feature of the Windows, executes the file or program stored on your device, without asking for permission, and that may bring havoc on the operating system as well as the confidential data stored on the machine. Thus, you need to disable the AutoPlay feature to deter such security breaching.