Network Security

 Week 4

            Today, computers and the Internet are used daily for communication, work, shopping, banking, etc. As much valuable information is stored on the net, making computer systems secure is paramount. People and organizations are at risk from cyber-attacks that can cause severe problems. Computer viruses are one of the biggest threats, and another issue that should be worried about is malware, especially ransomware. These attacks can lead to lost files, compromised data, or complete system failure. The more technology advances, the more sophisticated the methods hackers use in system attacks. That is why awareness of these threats and how to protect against them is crucial for all, not just those working only in IT. In this essay, I will explain how the threats function, why computers are vulnerable to them, what kinds of damage they can cause, and how people can protect their systems from being compromised.

Computer Virus

A computer virus is software that copies itself from computer to computer and causes damage. Viruses typically attach themselves to programs or files and run when an individual opens or runs the infected file. These viruses will slow down a computer, delete files, or cause programs to crash. Some viruses steal confidential data or allow hackers to control the computer remotely. Computers can get attacked if people download files from malicious websites, open emails from unknown sources, or use contaminated USB drives. Computer viruses are often embedded in what appears to be regular documents, and once they are infected, they can spread quickly through systems, as stated by Kaspersky (2023). Certain viruses are designed only to irritate users, but others are designed to cause significant harm or to rob sensitive information. Viruses can even be programmed to go undetected by antivirus programs, so they are hard to stop once started. To stay safe from viruses, one must download antivirus software and install it regularly. One must also be careful on the Internet and only open files or links from reputable sources. It's also wise to avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive business since viruses will ride on unsecured networks, too.

Malware and Ransomware

            Malware is an umbrella term for software designed to harm a computer. One of the most dangerous types of malwares is ransomware. Ransomware will encrypt or lock files and then hold them for ransom to release them. These attacks typically begin when someone clicks on a spuriously made link in an email or downloads something from a dubious website. Once the ransomware is installed, it blocks access to important files. The criminal then asks for a ransom, often paid in cryptocurrency, to regain access. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA, 2021) explained that ransomware attacks have increased over the past years and can be directed against schools, hospitals, and businesses. The victims pay the ransom as they do not have any other option to recover their files, especially if they do not make backups. The attacks may result in long-term consequences like data loss, money loss, and even disruption of services. One such example in the real world is the 2021 Colonial Pipeline attack that severed a massive U.S. fuel pipeline and caused panic gas buying (Symantec, 2022). To secure yourself against ransomware, you must make regular backup copies of important files and keep them isolated from your main computer setup. Keeping all software updated and using good security software also keeps malware out of a device. People should not click on pop-ups or open attachments unless they know the source is safe.

Conclusion

In summary, system and data security are essential in protecting business and personal data. Threats like computer viruses and ransomware may lead to serious problems by infecting files, stealing data, or taking down critical services. They also cause worry and cost, especially when critical files are lost, or services are brought down. However, there are simple precautions against these attacks. Installation of antivirus software, avoiding downloading suspicious files, creating copies of files, and installation of updates are all simple tips to stay safe. Moreover, staying aware of newer attacks is a good idea, as cybercriminals always develop new methods. With the rise in technology, keeping the safety of computers foremost in mind is something everybody should do. Small steps today can take a long way to avoid major issues in life in the future.

References

CISA. (2025). Ransomware guide. U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. https://www.cisa.gov/sites/default/files/2023-01/CISA_MS-ISAC_Ransomware%20Guide_S508C.pdf

Kaspersky. (2025). What is a computer virus? https://www.kaspersky.com/resource-center/threats?sub=viruses

Symantec. (2025). Threat Intelligence. https://www.security.com/threat-intelligence

TestOut Corp. (2024). CertMaster Learn Tech+. http://www.testout.com