This is a page about Viruses. I feel that Webopedia gives a better definition than I ever could. If you do not know what a Virus is please see: http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/v/virus.html . I will go into more detail as time goes by. I will give examples of Viruses (old and new) and will explain what they can do to your computer and/or computer network. I especially want to emphasize how they have change and transitioned to what we have today.
See other threats that can cause huge problems. I will discuss them also. http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/v/virus.html
DO NOT!!! (Repeat) DO NOT!!! let your Virus program expire. IT WILL NOT PROTECT YOU if you do. They call it expired for a reason. Most people end up reloading their entire computer (Losing many pictures) due to the fact that a Virus attacked their computer during this vulnerable time. I also recommend purchasing the best you can afford. Free ones are barely OK and should be used only if you have no choice. If you can't afford these programs I feel you shouldn't be on the Internet since it is the source for most viruses. However! A recent source is somebody Else's thumb drive. If you use somebody Else's thumb drive (or other external source) it could be carrying a Virus or spyware program. In years past it used to be called the floppy shuffle due to the type of media (3 1/2") disks.
Does Outlook or Oulook express freeze or are you getting tons of weird e-mail? You probably have a Virus and or spyware http://www.pcinfospace.com/pcis-resources/viruses/spy-ware. Update and scan your computer with your Anti-virus program. If your program is more than two years old buy the latest. I am not recommending any particular program. I will say to avoid "free" anything. You get what you pay for. It is possible that your Anti-Virus program was attacked also. If you scan it and find nothing it probably was hacked. Uninstall it and reinstall it. Then update it and scan again. If this still doesn't fix it you will need to back up all your data (You never backed it up?) and totally reload the operating system. If your afraid to loose something take it to a professional in your area. Get references and be sure they will back up your data, e-mail etc. Do not assume they will do it. If they tell you they can't or that they only can reload the system they are probably lying. Get a second opinion if need be. There are a lot of people just trying to get your money.
