Using anti-malware software to help protect your computer
Malicious software, also known as malware, is software designed to deliberately harm your computer. For example, viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are malicious software. To help protect your computer against malware, make sure you are using up-to-date antivirus and antispyware software.
Windows comes with Windows Defender, which can help protect your computer against malicious and unwanted software, such as spyware and adware. Windows Defender is installed and turned on by default.
However, Windows doesn't come with antivirus software. If you don't have up-to-date antivirus software on your computer, you should immediately install it because any computer that is connected to the Internet without antivirus software is vulnerable to attack. You can purchase antivirus software online by going to the Microsoft Antivirus Partners website.
Worm
A self-replicating program, similar to a virus. A worm can make it possible for a malicious user to take over your computer or can send out enough copies of itself to cause your computer or a web or network server to stop responding.
Malicious software
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Malicious software
Software designed to deliberately harm your computer. For example, viruses, worms, and Trojan horses are malicious software. Also known as malware.
Default
A predefined setting. You can accept the default option settings, or you can change them to suit your own preferences.
Spyware
Software that can display advertisements (such as pop-up ads), collect information about you, or change settings on your computer, generally without appropriately obtaining your consent.
Virus
A malicious computer program designed specifically to replicate itself and spread from computer to computer. A virus may damage hardware, software, or data.
Help and How-to
