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What is a computer virus?
In Summary:
A computer virus is an executable program that is able to replicate itself. Each virus contains instructions to initiate a unique, problematic event on the infected computer. The effects of these events can range from annoying to potentially devastating.
A common type of virus is a file virus, which attaches itself to an existing program. When the program is run, the virus is also executed. Internet users can unknowingly download a software program that contains a virus.
Other virus types include boot sector viruses and Trojan Horse programs which some
experts do not classify as true viruses. Anti-virus tools can help a user to detect and
eradicate viruses before they have an effect on an infected computer.