Nowadays almost everyone knows what a computer virus is and what it can do. If you're in the minority that don't know, then here is a concise description. A computer virus is a software program that is created specifically to cause harm to a computer. It has the ability to duplicate and spread itself, infecting other files that it comes into contact with.

How do you know if you have a computer virus?

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms it is possible that your system may be infected and that virus removal is necessary.

Computer crashes. If your system reboots itself without instruction, this may be a cause for concern. It is likely that any system will crash from time to time, but if you are experiencing frequent problems with your PC crashing, then this is likely to be a sign that your computer is harbouring a virus.

Computer freezes.

• Does your computer get stuck?

• Are you unable to move your cursor or access any of your files or programs?

• Does your computer just seem to freeze on you for no apparent reason?

These are all common indications that your system may be infected and that virus removal may be necessary. As with computer crashes, it is possible that your PC may freeze on occasion (especially if your system is running on a small amount of RAM), but again, this should not be happening on a regular basis.

Unusual activity. Another symptom that virus removal may be necessary is if you are noticing any unusual activities taking place on your PC. If you are witnessing web pages change by themselves or seeing your mouse pointer move across your screen without being touched, these issues would be classed as unusual activity.

Many computer viruses contain small segments of code that can disrupt and interfere with the basic day-to-day functions of your PC, causing noticeable problems with many programs, including web browsers.

Pop-ups. These annoying adverts (which are often displayed during web browsing) are another sure sign that a virus may be present.

As well as the annoyance factor, these pop-ups can also slow down your PC considerably by circulating information through your web browser and other parts of your system, using up unnecessary RAM and harming your PC's performance.

If you are experiencing any of the problems listed above then you should consider contacting a virus removal specialist for help.