Here are a few quick definitions that simply explain the difference between computer viruses, worms, and Trojan Horses. These types of invasive programs differ not in what they do, but how they spread. Each type can delete files, allow access to your computer, or cause other mayhem on your machines.

A computer virus is a piece of executable code attached to a file or application. It will replicate itself when the file or application is used. The best defense against computer viruses is to run security fixes, system updates and anti-virus software.

A computer worm does not require human interaction to spread. Therefore it replicates much faster. It is a self replicating program that hides among the mundane files in your system. Like computer viruses, the best defense is to run security fixes and system updates regularly.

A Trojan Horse program often appears useful or harmless in order to get the user to run it. When the program is run any number of malicious actions can affect your computer. To combat a Trojan horse, users should make sure all programs are safe before running them.

It’s important to know that these types of problems are not usually an issue for Linux and Mac OS X users. Their user access methodology and permissions structure keep viruses, worms, and Trojan horses from affecting the more important parts of your system. In fact, as of this writing, there are zero known Mac OS X viruses known "in the wild."

PC users should know that Windows ships with VB scripting and at least five networking ports and several services open by default. If you are unsure about the vulnerability of your machine, please contact Pelarious to discuss how your computers can be protected.