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The replicating computer program, a program capable of creating copies of itself, was first written as a game called 'Core Wars' in the 1950's to prove that it could be done. Several of this type of self-replicating program appeared in the 1960's and 1970's but the traditional computer viruses first appeared in the 1980s, causing the first wave of such problems. In the early 1990s, problems increased with the development of macro viruses, created using the macro language of applications such as Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel. These problems are exacerbated by the widespread use of the Internet and electronic mail. Traditional virus distribution is faster and easier than ever with this new Web-based communication. |
By most accounts, in October 1988, only three DOS computer viruses were known. By October 1991, McAfee Associates identified some 900 computer virus strains. Programs such as Norton AntiVirus identify several tens of thousands of different computer viruses with up to 200 new variants being introduced every month. This continuous flow of new viruses means that the war against these software programs designed to attack computer data will be a continuous struggle for the many organisations that specialise in designing software that combats computer viruses.
Companies that produce anti-virus utility programs include McAfee, Sophos, Symantec Corporation with Norton AntiVirus and more.
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