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Do I have a virus, a trojan, spyware or malware? What’s the difference?
The most often asked question among computer users is “What’s the difference between a virus, a trojan, spyware, and malware?” While they are all bad to have on your computer – trust me – there are some difference in their meaning. At the same time, definitions for each of these often touch each other, making the difference between them very slight. I will do my best to help you navigate the jumble of definitions.
A virus has two distinct features: damage to files and replication. For something to be considered a virus, it must do both. Where the confusion comes in is the meaning of the word damage. Some viruses destroy data files. Others destroy system files. Still others take up space, slowing the computer down. Different levels of damage do not change the fact that damage has been done. A virus will also find a way to copy itself and continue to spread. Some viruses, called worms, actively send themselves through email. Others wait to attach themselves to files that you send out or post to the web. Whatever method it uses to spread, it will then replicate itself and make your life miserable.
A trojan gets its name from the mythical Trojan Horse. It tricks you into thinking it’s a legitimate and helpful program, only to activate some harmful program later. Trojans can contain viruses, spyware, or even open back doors to allow others access to your computer. The difference is that don’t actually cause the damage, they just provide a transport for damaging programs. You know, just like the Trojan Horse didn’t cause all of the damage, it was the soldiers inside.
Spyware is not usually destructive, but it does invade your privacy and can be incredibly annoying. Spyware tracks your moves on the Internet, taking note of your searches and website visits. That information is then used to send you volumes of spam mail or popups, earning money for the spyware maker. Some spyware is automatically installed with certain programs and is a requirement for the program to run. So, if you want to avoid being watched with these programs, make sure to read the fine print before you download some new software.
All of these types of software are considered malware, which is short for malicious software. Any program that does something you do not want to your computer is malware. Most removal tools could be called malware removal tools, not just virus removal. I hope that helps with what is what. All of these are bad and should be avoided and removed as soon as possible.