Malware vs Virus- a lot confuse the two as the same. But are they? Let us know what are their differences and ways on how you can prevent them from intruding on your system.
Malware vs Virus
What is Malware?
Malware is short for ” malicious software”. It is software created to perform tasks such as damaging, destroying, or stealing information from computers.
The most common type of malware is viruses.
What is Virus?
The virus is a program that can replicate itself and spread to other computers. They can attach themselves to any executable files like documents and images and also infect your computer when you open these files.
Viruses can be classified into the following:
- Boot Sector Virus – this type of virus attacks the Master Boot Record (MBR) of your hard drive and makes it unusable by adding its code to it.
- File-infecting Virus – This type of virus attaches itself to executable files. They are triggered by opening the infected file.
- Macro Virus – This type of virus is in Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) or macros. The virus activates when you open a document containing the macro.
The Difference Between Malware and Virus
Although malware and viruses have a lot of similarities, they are distinctly different in their behavior.
Malware is software created to perform tasks such as damaging, destroying, or stealing information from computers.
Viruses are programs that can replicate themselves and spread to other computers. They can attach themselves to any executable files like documents and images and also infect your computer when you open these files.
How to Protect Your Computer from Malware and Viruses
Antivirus Software
Having good antivirus software is important in protecting your computer from malware and viruses. This software will detect and remove any existing malware and virus in your system.
Software Updates
Applying the latest security updates and patches for your computer’s operating system and web browser is also essential in keeping it safe from viruses and other threats.
Application Updates
Updating the applications that you use regularly is also crucial for securing your system against malware. Most of these applications come with an auto-update feature which will update them in the background when your computer is connected to the Internet.
Application Whitelisting
Whitelisting is one of the best ways in which you can protect your computer from viruses and other threats. The concept behind whitelisting is similar to that of a firewall. Only the trusted applications are allowed to run on your system while everything else will be blocked.
USB Transfers
Transferring data using USB ports is also one of how you can infect your computer with viruses. It is advised to not connect your computer to any other devices unless you are prompted to do so. And when you do so, make sure that the USB port you are using is free from any malware or virus.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the best antivirus for virus removal, then you’re in the right place! This site offers much more than just updated information concerning modern malware and malicious viruses.
