Computer Software

Development Software

What is it? Software with the purpose of allowing users to create or fix pieces of code

3 Main Types

Integrated Development Environment (IDE): Allows one to write code, as well as, interpret and execute the commands being written one by one. An IDE can also debug and find problems in the written code.

Compiler: Allows for code to be translated from one language into another language that the computer understands. This results in a file ready to be executed, however, a compiler does not execute commands

Interpreter: Interprets a program one line at a time and executes the commands as it arrives

Malware

Any piece of software that is disruptive and
has malicious intent

5 General Categories

Viruses: Spreads by copying its self and can affect computers functionality by changing programs

Trojan Horse: A program or file
that is not what it says it is

SpyEye would secretly implant itself
onto people's computers to steal their
personal and financial information

Adware/Spyware: Collects information
about the user and changes web
searches to other sites

Fireball turns default web browsers to fake search engines, which enable the software to spy on users of the infected browsers

Worm: Is like a virus, however
does not need to change exist-
ting programs to work

SQL Slammer was a Denial of Service on many internet hosts that caused thousands of network outages and slowed down Internet traffic

Backdoor: Anyway around
security measures without
authority

ShadowPad extracts information about the host, executes commands, interacts with the file system and registry, and deploys new modules to extend functionality.

Time Line of Viruses

5 Ways to Prevent Viruses

Install antivirus or Anti-malware Software

Insuring your computer is up to date with anti-viruses is essential to protecting important information

Don't Use Unsecure WiFi

If you can connect easily think about how quickly a hacker can connect your information. Connecting to wifi means your allowing access to the router controller.^

Back Up Files

Ideally you should keep your important files in 3 different locations including hardware, so that if one is attacked your files are not lost

Use Secure Passwords

If you always use the same password and someone uncovers it, it’ll take just a few seconds to hack into all your accounts. Choose a strong password with lower- and upper-case letters, numbers and symbols

Be Careful of What You Open

Many viruses are spread when one opens suspicious emails, etc. Insure to avoid websites you don't know, emails from sketchy companies, and think before downloading