Thursday, October 11, 2012

Types Of Malware That Linux Security Software Can Protect You From

By Sharlene Fleming


Most any operating system will benefit from having security features. With the increased need to stay connected, there is also increased risk to being exposed to malicious software. Different operating systems require different types of safety features. Here is an overview of what a Linux security software can do.

The safety of a Linux system is ensured in several ways. There are features that come with the OS to render it safe from changes that are brought about by intruders. But to optimize safety especially when you are online, there are software that you can add on. But before you make your purchase, you must first identify your needs.

Generally, all users will benefit from having a firewall. A firewall is what protects your system from malicious data coming from the internet. As such it serves as your first line of defense. It prevents unauthorized access to and from a private network.

Private networks like those that a bank has greatly benefit from the protection that firewalls offer. Hackers are deterred from getting precious bank information like depositors and their account numbers. Before information can get through the firewall, it is first examined and all information that does not meet the security criteria will be blocked from entering or leaving the intranet.

Security software performs several functions. It analyzes the system, audits, recovers data, and monitors the network. All these functions are needed by all users. There are added functions that may also be required but the need is dictated by the type of information protected. Updating is important so that new malware can be deterred from accessing your files. The following are malware types that you need protection from.

Computer virus is so named because it acts very much like a real virus. It finds a host and attaches itself to the host. It makes use of the host's resources so that it will be able to replicate. After replication, it will go on to infect others. Not all viruses are harmful but they make changes in the system and these changes are always undesirable.

Worms exploit and breach the weaknesses in the defense system of a computer. Once the defenses has been breached, it finds its way to the other computers. Another malicious program is the Trojan horse, it owes its name from Greek mythology for such a malware disguises itself as a harmless or even a helpful file only to corrupt our data. These are often used to get sensitive information that hackers cold use for their benefit or against the user of the computer.

Spy ware are created to get information from users. It can collect data like personal information, bank information, and user log in. Adware or advertising supported software are not really intrusive but can be very annoying for they come in the form of pop ups and they pop up at inconvenient times. Sometimes, adware come with spyware and this is when it becomes harmful.

Real time protection is important so that attempts to infiltrate your system are addressed immediately. By having Linux security software installed, you can minimize the risk of contracting malware. Such programs strengthen the safety features of your operating system so that your files are kept safe from hackers.




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