Reference number: CH000104

What is a computer virus?

Question:

What is a computer virus?

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.