Difference between Virus and Trojan Horse

When it comes to the field of cybersecurity the two terms that are quite often described as synonymous are ‘Virus’ and ‘Trojan Horse. ’ This is a partially correct statement as while both of the mentioned types of malicious software or malware are designed to harm or exploit systems, they differ in their functionality. Virus and Trojan Horse are two computer threats that should be distinguished to prevent and deal with them adequately.

What is a Virus?

A virus is a malicious executable code attached to another executable file that can be harmless or can modify or delete data. When the computer program runs attached to the virus it performs some action such as deleting a file from the computer system. The virus can’t be controlled remotely. 

Advantages of a Virus

• Widespread Damage: It is fast in its ability to spread to many systems in a short span.
• Persistent Threat: Can exist without being detected or apparent for long periods.
• Automation: This can be transmitted automatically without the users’ intervention.

Disadvantages of a Virus

• Detectable: Present-day antivirus software has very high efficiency in identifying viral infections and eliminating them.
• Limited Control: It is very prolific once it escapes the original target and it can go viral in many ways it was not intended.
• Legal Consequences: The sending of viruses and making viruses are against the law and can evoke serious legal consequences.

What is Trojan Horse?

Trojan Horse is also a type of malware which uses false and fake name for mislead users from its true intent and executing them. Trojan Horses generally install on the system as legitimate and useful software that can give unauthorized access and control of the system to the hackers. Back orifice, Rootkit and Beast Trojan are some of the common Trojan horse which is more harmful. 

Advantages of a Trojan Horse

• Stealth: Can remain undetected for long because they appear as normal programs that are legally installed in the system.
• Targeted Attacks: Can be made to perform specific unwanted activities on pre-selected systems.
• Flexibility: Possesses great versatility because it can be used for many purposes, including spying, stealing data or creating backdoors.

Disadvantages of a Trojan Horse

• User Awareness: That is based on the fact that the user will be tricked into submitting to the control of the attacker and this can be avoided through security awareness and measures.
• Limited Spread: Contrary to viruses, Trojans cannot reproduce on their own, therefore, restricting them to the given capabilities. `n identify Trojans and counteract them most especially those with malicious movement patterns.

Difference Between Virus and Trojan Horse

Conclusion

Despite the fact that both Viruses and Trojan Horses are classified under malware and can potentially harm more precisely, infect or affect a computer system, they function differently. A virus can copy itself and extend to other systems and in most cases it only needs the end users intervention at first instance. However, in the case of Trojan Horse, the attacker disguises it as a normal and harmless program and the user himself will install it willingly but the program has the ability to do many evil things. It is important to note these differences to be able to come up with proper measures in securing systems from these threats.

Difference Between Virus and Trojan Horse -FAQs

Can a Trojan Horse become a Virus?

All in all we can clearly see that, a Trojan Horse and a Virus are not the same in their functionality. When we speak of a ‘virus,’ it actually performs a number of actions, but a Trojan Horse does not replicate.

What should I do to prevent computer from being attacked by Viruses and Trojans?

For your computer security, you should ensure that you always have on the computer antivirus software that is always updated and do not download any software from sources that are unknown to you and never open any emails, alike links, that you are not sure of.

What should I do if I suspect my computer is infected with a Virus or Trojan?

It is recommended you disconnect from the internet if you have reason to believe an infection presents itself on your computer, initiate a full scan of your computer with your antivirus suite of choice and adhere to the prompts given to you in the removal process.

Are Trojans more dangerous than Viruses?

The threat posed by Trojan or Virus is relative to the individual design and, most especially, the purpose of the Trojan or Virus. A Trojan Horse is very dangerous because such an attack grants the attacker access to your data and information A Virus is equally dangerous as such an attack tends to replicate itself within the systems.

A

adware

Follow

Improve

Article Tags :

• Computer Networks
• Difference Between
• Cyber-security
• Information-Security
• Network-security

+1 More