Common types of viruses and how they spread
Common types of computer viruses and their typical methods of spread include:
File Infector Virus:
This is one of the most common types of virus. It attaches itself to executable files and spreads to other files and programs when the infected software is run. These viruses can modify program code or replace it entirely.
Macro Virus:
Macro viruses are written in the same macro language used for software applications. They commonly target Microsoft Office applications like Word or Excel. These viruses are typically spread through infected documents, often via email attachments. When the user opens the infected document and enables macros, the virus executes its code.
Boot Sector Virus:
These viruses infect the Master Boot Record (MBR) of a hard drive, meaning they are executed when the computer starts up. They spread through infected media, usually removable drives, like USBs or CDs. They were more common when computers were often booted from floppy disks.
Polymorphic Virus:
Polymorphic viruses are sophisticated and can change their code every time they infect a new system, making them hard to detect with traditional antivirus methods. They spread like any other virus, through downloads, email attachments, or infected web pages, but their changing nature makes them more elusive.
Resident Virus:
These viruses implant themselves in a computer’s memory. They can execute and infect other files without having to open a specific software program. Resident viruses spread by attaching themselves