WHAT IS A COMPUTER VIRUS?

A computer virus, a type of malware, is a program that is intended to spread from one system to another via a contaminated program, file, or document. A computer virus is the digital equivalent of the flu, spreading from one host to another, often undetected and often replicating or altering itself.

While some computer viruses are immediately active, others remain dormant for some time, working slowly to cause destruction over time. A computer virus may be used as a way to frustrate the computer owner, simply for fun by the creator. However, others are created for malicious reasons such as stealing personal information or for financial gain.

Individuals who write viruses are always coming up with new ways to fool their prospects into downloading the virus. And as our lives become more connected via technology, it may be even easier to trick us into downloading it. Victims often fall prey to an email attachment, a social media post that requires a download or sign-in for access, or a music file that contains a virus.

Computer viruses work in phases during their lifecycle. Once a virus accesses its target’s computer, it may sit dormant while waiting to be triggered by the user. Triggering of the virus happens when the computer owner runs the program or file the virus is located within. Not all viruses have a dormant phase; some run immediately. As soon as the virus starts propagating or multiplying or replicating itself, it has moved to a new phase. The virus will copy itself and transfer to other programs or machines on the network. Each infected program will have a clone of the original virus which will then also go into a propagation phase.

The triggering phase of the virus’s life cycle is when the virus completes its intended function. This is often when the virus destroys your computer, steals your personal information, or begins spamming your contacts.

Infected machines often require software to remove the virus from the infected programs. Depending on the virus type, new hardware may also be needed to repair the damage, as some viruses will attack system critical files on the computer.

Are you worried about becoming the victim of a computer virus? Or, has your computer already been infected? Call Geeks on Site at 1-888-799-4335 anytime 24/7. We’re here to help!

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As a leader in the technology industry, Geeks on Site provides the very best technicians in computer repair, networking, smart home installations, and IT support. Our technicians are knowledgeable and courteous, and they’ve been vetted before entering your home or office space. Schedule an appointment today to meet your friendly, local Geek!

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A Few Words From Our Happy Customers

Rating
4.3
Based on 38 reviews
Geeks on Site
4.3
Based on 38 reviews
I've had issues with my desktop and they had always been able to solve them, I got the yearly service, you can call as many times, at least you call once a month and have a tune up perform
Hector Garcia Fantastic hair
Hector Garcia Fantastic hair
I have been using their services for many years now and Yadian has always surpass my expectations. His advice has always been point on. He is very knowledgeable and very professional. I will definitely recommend their services and will keep using them for our business technology support.
Luisa Bautte
Luisa Bautte
Neil Austin was wonderful and very patient adding parental monitoring to 5 devices.
Adri Zentefis
Adri Zentefis
My son gaming computer was frozen from virus attack. Called Geeks on site for remote assistance. The process was very simple and helpful, Geeks on site was able to clean and removed virus from our computer.Highly recommend their service to friends and family's.
Kong Sayarad
Kong Sayarad
The individual technician that helped me maintain my windows 10 HP tower PC was very professional, knowledgeable, efficient and courteous as well!
Lawrence Nevison
Lawrence Nevison
They are very professional and knowledgeable I could not open or get into my computer and one day later got a call that it was fixed
Severino Salazar
Severino Salazar
Your technician was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. He got the job done efficiently and in a customer-oriented manner.
Charlotte Brook-Signor
Charlotte Brook-Signor
Caine Hakim was my service man. Did an excellent job with my computer and went above and beyond and unstuck my front door for me!!
Annie Zintel
Annie Zintel
We had the technician to our home to install a printer, take care of some virus issues, recover files, etc.The technician was on time, worked competently and quickly (we had plenty of time left on our estimated time slot, answered questions clearly and helpfully, plus gave us good advice for the future. We are geeks for life!!
Walter Wagner
Walter Wagner
Geeks on site has and continues to provide me with excellent service. Once I found them I no longer had to worry about my computer. THANKS
Sandra Shortt
Sandra Shortt
Excellent responsive successful in evey aspect. Shabash GOS!
Dennis Showalter
Dennis Showalter
They always solve my problem and are very helpful
joanne cookinham
joanne cookinham
Professional I'm very thorough
Cc Co
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