IU Northwest: The IT Help Desk

Computer Viruses & E-mail

What is a Virus?

According to Webopedia - the definition of a virus is a program or piece of code that is loaded onto your computer without your knowledge and runs against your wishes. Viruses can also replicate themselves. All computer viruses are manmade. A simple virus that can make a copy of itself over and over again is relatively easy to produce. Even such a simple virus is dangerous because it will quickly use all available memory and bring the system to a halt. An even more dangerous type of virus is one capable of transmitting itself across networks and bypassing security systems.

What is a Worm?

According to Webopedia - the definition of a worm is a special type of virus that can replicate itself and use memory, but cannot attach itself to other programs. A program or algorithm that replicates itself over a computer network and usually performs malicious actions, such as using up the computer's resources and possibly shutting the system down.

What is a Virus Definition?

A 'virus definition' is an addition to antivirus software that has up-to-date information on the latest viruses. These are typically available as a free download when you purchase and install an antivirus program on your computer. The program will come with a very long list of definitions already installed but since the people who make viruses change and alter the code of existing viruses, your antivirus software must be updated regularly (typically, once a week) so that it can find and eliminate these new variations and strains.

The update is set automatically for computers on IU Northwest Campus. At home, you should be sure it is either set to update automatically, or do it manually. Click on ALL Programs, Symantec Client Security, Symantec Antivirus Client to run the program. Under Virus Definition File, click on live update to get the latest virus definitions.

The Symantec AntiVirus Client software is available on the IUWare CD and may be purchased by students, staff, faculty, and administration members at the IUN Bookstore for $5.