•Multipartite Viruses are both program and boot infectors.

Viruses are inactive until the infected program is executed, or a boot record is read. Thereafter, the virus loads itself into system memory and begins to copy and spread itself. Diskettes used in a contaminated system can get infected and, in turn, transfer the virus when used in another system. A virus can also spread via programs downloaded from bulletin boards or the Internet.

To Prevent Virus Infection

•Obtain an anti-virus program and make it a habit to scan the system regularly.

•Make backup copies of all files and write-protect the disks.

•Obtain all software from reputable sources and always scan new software for any viruses prior to installing files.

If you suspect the system has been infected, find and remove the viruses immediately using an anti-virus program. Then turn off the system for a minimum of 15 seconds to clear the virus from system RAM. You may want to rerun the anti-virus software when you turn the system back on the verify that the system is clean.

Maintaining and Cleaning Your System 21