Computer Support Terms for Virus Removal, Malware Removal or Spyware Removal

• Adware - Adware, a type of spyware, is a program that gathers information about your from your computer usage. Typical adware programs are toolbars and many people use them without knowing they are passive adware programs. Another example are freeware programs that are used to find music, movies, or other information. Please be careful of what types of software you install on your computer.
• Malware - Malware refers to programs designed to damage or do other unwanted actions. Malware includes viruses, worms, trojans, root kits, and many other harmful program variants. You should arrange for a computer repair technician anytime your suspect malware on your computer.
• Rootkit - A virus or malicious program designed typically to provide someone with access to a computer while hidding itself to try to prevents is detection. Rootkits can typically perform additional operations such as installing software or providing back door access to the system. Rootkits can be very dangerous and it is recommended you contact a Computer Support Technician immediately if you identify or suspect a rootkit on your computer system.
• Trojan (Horse) - A malicious program that typically is destructive. Trojans typically pretend to serve one function, while really doing something else.
• Virus - A virus is a small malicious program that can negatively affect the health of your computer. The programs can create files, move files, erase files, consume memory, and cause computers to fail to function correctly.
• Worm - A Malicious application that replicates itself, but does not alter any files on your machine. Worms still cause problems by replicating so many times they fill up the available memory or hard disk space.
• Zero Day Exploit - A malicious computer attack that takes advantage of a security hole before a vulnerability is known, providing little time for companies to prepare for the security breach or to patch the exploit before serious damage is done.