What does it mean?

A program or piece of code that is loaded onto your computer without your knowledge and runs against your wishes. Most viruses can also replicate themselves. All computer viruses are manmade. A simple virus that can make a copy of itself over and over again is relatively easy to produce. Even such a simple virus is dangerous because it will quickly use all available memory and bring the system to a halt. An even more dangerous type of virus is one capable of transmitting itself across networks and bypassing security systems.

Source: (http://pcwebopedia.com/TERM/v/virus.html)

Why is it important?

It is important that your organization has installed virus protection software on all its computer and that you download the definitions on a regular basis. Preventing viruses in the place is much easier than cleaning up an infected system. As your organization uses the email to communicate and share information electronically through an internal network, virus prevention becomes critical. Don't wait until your entire organization is infected with an ugly virus that can delete all your data to learn more about viruses!

Resources

TechSoup's Virus FAQ

OneNorthWest:
Protecting Your Computer From Viruses

Reflections

What did you learn about virus protection from visiting these sites?
If your organization adequately protected from getting viruses?
What do you need to think about as part of your technology planning process?

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