Areas Hard@Work Computers Can Help Secure
- Wireless
- Anti-Virus Software
- Servers
- Laptops
- Desktops / Workstations
- High Speed Internet Connection
- Firewalls
Viruses cost you valuable time and money! There is one quick and easy solution for dealing with viruses—don't ever get them! A small investment in virus prevention can save you money in lost productivity and protect your irreplaceable data files. Don't let it happen to you. Hard@Work Computers can help.
How Viruses Spread
Viruses are spread through unknowing victims. Many people are not aware of the dangers of viruses or how to prevent them. Viruses spread primarily through E-mail and networks. Below are some explanations of terms related to security.
Virus
A virus is a program that reproduces itself through legitimate processes
in computer programs and operating systems. It alters the behavior of
a program or operating system without the user's knowledge. It purpose is
almost always malicious, ranging from posting a harassing message to
destroying data.
Hoax
Hoax warnings are typically scare alerts started by malicious people
and passed on by innocent users who think they are helping the community
by spreading the warning. Do not forward hoax messages! This can cause
entire E-mail systems to go down. Instead, follow a simple guideline:
end users must not forward virus alarms. Ever!
Worm
A worm program is similar to a virus, but it makes copies of itself without
modifying the host. Today, it is the most common internet virus. Once
it has infected a system, it mails to every recipient in the address
book. Once it has infected, it searches for other machines which are
unprotected to infect.
Trojan Horse
Named for the wooden horse which concealed invading Greek soldiers in The
Iliad, this program conceals hidden programming. The hidden program
may be a joke, or something annoying, but it can also be used to destroy
data. The file often has an interesting name, and when opened, unleashes
havoc on its unsuspecting victim.
Macro Virus
Macro viruses can be very destructive. A macro is a series of commands
that can be run with one keystroke or command. Many software manufacturers
have enabled this function in their software. However, these features
can also be used to destroy data. Only use macros that you know to be
safe.

