Before computers even started making their way into people’shomes, programmers were writing “viruses” that could cripple entiresystems. Since then, viruses like “Melissa,” “ILOVEYOU” and”Conficker” have cost businesses and governments billions ofdollars and thousands of hours in lost time.

Office computer networks are especially susceptible to virus andmalware attacks because they consist of a number of computerslinked together. If one user accidentally downloads malicioussoftware onto his computer, that virus will try to spread acrossevery single computer on the network, causing a huge headache forthe company’s IT staff.

While most large companies implement advanced network securityprotection designed to stop almost all attacks before they happen,many small companies can’t afford sophisticated virus protectionfor their networks, and, as a result, struggle with virus attackson a regular basis. Here is an inside look into what experienced ITprofessionals do when their networks are attacked by viruses.

Follow the plan

Because experienced IT professionals know that security threatsare always possible, they already have a plan in place for dealingwith them. This plan has already been shared with the informationtechnology staff as a part of their IT training. Employeesalso should know their role in the process.

Inform employees

Once most viruses attack, they’ll try to spread throughout thenetwork. As soon as a network administrator learns of an attack,he’ll inform the entire company and let them know how they can stopthe threat from spreading to their computers.

Take care of the problem

The IT professional will then isolate the infected computer andexamine the virus. He’ll scan it with anti-virus software, researchthe results that come back and take the steps necessary toeliminate the threat. He’ll also update the security patches on allmachines across the network to make sure the system will beprotected if the same threat attacks again.

Verify the security system still works

Because most malware attacks a computer’s antivirus software,experienced IT professionals do not declare a computer safe untilthey make sure its virus protection program still works. Many testtheir system through the popular EICAR virus test.

Develop a plan for next time

In the days and weeks following the incident, IT professionalswill look at the incident and develop a plan to make sure the samething never happens again. They might beef up their anti-virussoftware or implement policies that prevent employees from visitingcertain websites.

Information in this article was provided by Collins College in Arizona.Contact Collins College today if you’re interested in developingmarketable knowledge and career-relevant skills with anindustry-current degree program. (Collins College does notguarantee employment or salary.)

Courtesy of ARAcontent