Malware and Antivirus FullGuide
Computer Security
1.What is Malware?
Answer: Malware is short for malicious software
programs intentionally designed to harm, disrupt,or steal
data from computers.
Why this matters: Malware is the main tool
cybercriminals use to attack systems.
Example: A keylogger that secretly records your
keyboard inputs to steal passwords.
2. Types of Malware
Virus: Attaches to files, spreads when opened.
• Worm: Spreads by itself over networks.
•Trojan Horse: Pretends to be useful but is harmful.
• Spyware: Secretly monitors your activity.
• Ransomware: Locks your files and demands a ransom.
Example: The "ILOVEYOU" worm spread to millions via
email.
3. Uses of Malware in Computers
Stealing personal and financial data.
•Deleting or corrupting files.
Disrupting systems or networks.
• Spying on users.
Why this matters: Malware gives attackers unauthorized
power or accesSs.
Example: Hackers using spyware to watch your webcam
without consent.
4. How to Detect a Virus
•Slow performance.
Unexpected crashes or error messages.
• Strange pop-ups or new unknown programs.
Example: If your antivirus is disabled without your action,
a virus may be active.
5. Types of Antivirus
• Signature-based: Detects known malware using a
database.
• Behavior-based: Looks for unusual or harmful
behavior.
• Cloud-based: Uses online servers for faster scanning
and updates.
Example: Bitdefender combines both signature and
behavior-based methods.
6. Importance of Antivirus
Answer: Protects your data and computer by scanning
for, blocking, and removing threats.
Why this matters: Without it, malvware can take control,
spread, and damage your data.
Example: Antivirus stopping avirus hidden in a USB
drive.
7. How to Update Antivirus
•Enable auto-update (recommended).
• Manually click "Check for Updates" in the antivirus
app.
Why this matters: New threats appear daily--updates
include the latest virus definitions.
8. How to Create a Backup
1. Choose backup method (cloud or external storage).
2. Set schedule-daily, weekly,or automatic.
3. Store backup safely.
Why this matters: If malware hits, backups allow you to
recoverclean data.
Example: Using Google Drive or external SSD to back up
your school or project files.
9. Howv to Remove a Virus
• Enter Safe Mode to stop virus activities.
• Run full antivirus scan.
•Delete or quarantineinfected files.
1f ,
needed use specialized removal tools or reinstall OS.
Why this matters: Safe Mode disables many malware
functions, making removal easier.
10. What is a Virus?
Answer: A virus is a type of malware that attaches to
clean files and spreads when executed.
Why this matters: It cannot work alone-needs user
action to infect.
Example: A macrovirus hiding in Word files.
11. What is Antivirus?
Answer: Software built to prevent, detect, and remove
malware.
Example: Kaspersky, Avast, and Windows Defender.
12. Limitations of Antivirus
• May not detect brand-new or complex threats.
• Relies on user behavior (e.g., you may still click risky
links).
•Can slow down older systems.
Why this matters: Human caution is still the first
defense--don't rely only on tools.
13. Difference Between Virus and Malvware
Feature Virus Malware
Definition A type of malware Any harmful
software
Spread Method Needs human Can spread with or
action to spread without user input
Examples File-infector virus, Worms,
Viruses,
macro virus ransomware,
spyware
VisualTip: Allviruses are malware, but not malware
all
are viruses.
14. Difference Between Virus and Worm
Feature Virus Worm
Needs Host File Yes No
Spread Through user Automatically, via
action (e.g. networks
clicking)
Damage Corrupts files or Consumes
slows the system bandwidth or
opens backdoors
Example:
Example:
Virus: CIlicking on an infected Excel file.
• Worm: Network-spreading worm like "Blaster"
infecting PCs without clicks.
15. Difference Between Virus and Website
Feature Virus Website
Nature A malicious code A digital location
accessed via
browser
Function Harms systems Can host or deliver
viruses
Role Needs to be Simply displays or
installed or delivers content
triggered
Example: Some fake websites install viruses once visited
-but the site itself isn't the virus.
