A computer virus is a computer program that can copy itself and infect a computer. The term "virus" is also commonly but erroneously used to refer to other types of malware. A true virus can spread from one computer to another (in some form of executable code.) when its host is taken to the target computer; for instance because a user sent it over a network or the Internet, or carried it on a removable medium such as a floppy disk, CD, DVD, or USB drive.
Viruses can increase their chances of spreading to other computers by infecting files on a network file system or a file system that is accessed by another computer.
As stated above, the term "computer virus" is sometimes used as a catch-all phrase to include all types of malware, even those that do not have the reproductive ability. Malware includes computer viruses, computer worms, Trojan horses, most rootkits, spyware, dishonest adware and other malicious and unwanted software, including true viruses.
Top 10 Free Antivirus Programs
When it comes to antivirus programs, we really need no introduction as millions of us have used it. Users have both free and paid antivirus programs on their computer, so you should know which ones are most effective and which ones are not. Antivirus programs are constantly updated through malware and virus databases, so it is essential that you update your antivirus program on a regular basis. Throughout the remainder of this article, we will be looking at some of the best free anti-virus programs available for download. All these antivirus programs function the same way, but they each have their own advantages and disadvantages.
10. Comodo Firewall Protection and Antivirus
9. Panda Cloud Antivirus
8. Clamwin
7. ComboFix
6. Malwarebytes
5. Avast Antivirus
4. Avira Antivirus Protection
3. Kaspersky Antivirus
2. AVG Antivirus
1. Microsoft Security Essentials
