Reference number: CH000104

What is a computer virus?

Question:

Answer:

A computer virus is a software program that has been intentionally created to cause a user grief, spread to other computers, or destroy data on an individual's computer. To help prevent a computer from becoming infected by a virus, software developers have developed antivirus programs that stay active on the computer helping to protect it. It is important to realize that many computers do not come pre-loaded with these already installed and that if computers do come with these programs, the programs may expire within 90 days.

Information about the available software programs used to protect your computer can be found on document CH000514.
See our Virus Q&A page for additional virus questions and answers.
Complete virus information, warnings and other helpful information about computer viruses and computer security threats can be found on our our Main Virus Information Page.