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Malware

What is Computer Malware?

Malware is short for “malicious software”. It is any software used for malicious purposes that disrupt computer operations. Malicious purposes of malware include:

  • To gather sensitive/personal information
  • To gain access to private computer systems
  • To display unwanted advertising

Common Types of Malware

Malicious software comes in various forms, but some are more common than others. Some of the more common types of malware include:

  • Adware
  • Spyware
  • Computer viruses
  • Worms
  • Trojans
  • Keyloggers
  • Rootkits
  • Phishing and Spear Phishing
  • Bots and Botnets
  • Ransomeware

Read Malware Types and Classifications from LastLine for explanations of each type of malware.

Symptoms of Malware

While all malware differs in the way it spreads and affects the computer, their symptoms are quite similar. It is important to recognize the symptoms in order to protect your computer, as well as your personal identity. Read How do I know if my computer is infected with a virus or other malware? from the ESET Knowledgebase to learn more.

gloved hand coming out a laptop screen, taking a credit card out of an open wallet

Malware Prevention and Removal

Prevention and removal of malware is extremely important in a technological society where so many have malicious intentions. Read Top 10 Effective Ways to Prevent and Remove Malware from Redshift by Autodesk.

Network Connection Problems

Have you ever received the error message "cannot find server" or "web page not found"? If so, you may have had network connection problems. Network outages are inconvenient and can even shut down airports and interrupt telephone or electrical service. Network administrators have an important job—they have to diagnose network problems and repair them quickly.

man gesturing at computer with the error message 'page not found!' on the screen'

Before you call your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for your home computer, there are some things you can check out yourself. The problem may be with your personal computer.

  1. Check the connection icon in the tray. If it is marked with a red X or an asterisk, it means that there is no physical connection. Verify that the cable is plugged in or that your wireless adaptor is turned on. You will also want to check to see that you are connected to the available WiFi connection. If all of these appear to be active, call you ISP (Internet Service Provider) to see if the server is down.
  2. If the connection icon is not marked with that red X, it means that you are connected to the network. Therefore, you are experiencing other difficulties, such as a problem with your network card or the TCP/IP drivers.
  3. Reboot your computer. Your network connections may need to be refreshed.
  4. Instead of a problem with your internet connection, there may be a problem with the browser you're using. Spyware may be responsible for redirecting or hijacking your Web browser settings. Spyware should be suspected if you see too many pop-ups when trying to connect and if your computer is slow. One solution is to uninstall the corrupted browser and reinstall another one. Let's imagine you've been using Microsoft Edge since it came installed on your Windows computer, but now you're experiencing problems with it. If you think that Microsoft Edge may be corrupt or not configured correctly, try installing Firefox or Google Chrome and try to open a website. If one of these browsers works, then the problem might be with Microsoft Edge, rather than your internet connection or server.

Maintenance

Just as your car needs its oil changed, tires checked, and other regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly, your computer requires the same. There are a few essential steps in a regular maintenance routine that will help you to protect your computer's health as well as your files and personal information.

  1. Back Up: Backing up your files should be done on a regular basis and especially prior to beginning any of the maintenance steps suggested below.
  2. Disk Maintenance: Regular disk cleanup and defragmenting is an essential step in maintaining your computer's health. These tasks can be performed by you following a given set of steps for each, or you may install a PC cleanup utility.
  3. Physical Cleaning: Dust and other debris can cause a problem for your computer, so set a regular routine for cleaning your keyboard and fans to remove any unwanted particles.
  4. Clean your Registry: The registry on a Windows computer organizes files and data. It can become cluttered if you neglect to clean it on a regular basis. Cleaning your registry is a multi-step process, but it's necessary for your computer to run efficiently.
  5. Security: Install anti-virus software, as well as a malware detection and removal software, to protect your computer against malicious software.
  6. Software Updates: When a window pops up to update a particular software on your computer, allow it to run. Updates often contain security patches and other fixes for bugs a program may contain and will ensure your computer runs correctly.
  7. File maintenance: Maintaining your computer files keeps your computer free of unnecessary clutter. Make it a habit to clean out your Downloads folder, empty your Recycle Bin, and delete files that you no longer use on a regular basis.