A virus, also known as a computer virus, is a program that spreads and reproduces itself in an uncontrolled manner and makes dangerous changes to the software. This also includes operating systems in which viruses attach themselves primarily to boot sectors or RAM memory.
In doing so, they penetrate other systems unnoticed. Viruses are dependent on the resources of the systems in which they infiltrate. They can spread uncontrollably via contact with other systems. The term virus can also be used under the term malware, which includes Trojans or computer worms. There are different types of computer viruses, including file or link viruses, which infect file name extensions or program libraries and occur very frequently. Macro viruses also pose a threat, as they can hide behind program macros. Script viruses, on the other hand, enter the computer or system through hidden scripts.
Antivirus programs and security practices, as well as regular software updates, are crucial to protect against viruses. Care should also be taken when handling and opening files from unknown sources.