Most Microsoft Windows installations by default do not display file extensions. The file extension can be found in the last characters of a file's name. For example: explorer.exe, aol.exe, picture.jpg, autoexec.bat, config.sys, boot.ini, library.dll, cabinet.cab, screensaver.scr, text.txt. All files in Microsoft Windows based systems have a file extension that is used to define their purpose and properties. Some files such as shortcuts have file extensions, although they are hidden, even when you tell your system to display file extensions. Be Aware! When your system is set to its default settings, files such as 'picture.jpg.exe' will show up as 'picture.jpg'. A very good list of file extensions can be found at www.filext.com.

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  The term macro generally refers to a small piece of program code that runs a specific task; typically found as part of a larger program. Most people skilled in various Office suites ( MS Office, OpenOffice, LibreOffice, WordPerfect Office ) will be familiar with macros. Macros are used in different forms in many different applications. Most often useful for reducing a common but lengthy task into an easier shorter set of commands.

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  A virus, in computer terms, is a class of program that replicates itself; that is, injects programming code another program, a boot sector, the file system, or a document that supports macros. Viruses can damage the computer they are infecting, the network the infected computer is on, as well as remote targets on other networks across the internet.

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  A worm is a class of virus that propagates from one system to another by copying itself using email or other available transport mechanisms. Email worms often read addresses from the infected computer's email program(s). The worm may do damage and compromise the security of the computer or network.

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  All jokes aside, a class of virus compromises the security of the computer. Trojans usually run invisibly and typically create a "back door" into the computer they are infecting for the purpose of allowing other types of malware to infect the system.

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  Usually an email that gets sent in chain letter fashion describing some devastating type of virus. Some virus hoaxes been passed around long enough for individuals to begin creating false evidence or validity to the claim. An old example is the jdbgmgr.exe virus hoax which claimed that the file jdbgmgr.exe was a virus, when in fact, jdbgmgr.exe is a standard windows component that was found in every (nearly) windows installation, it is used as Java debugger manager in Microsoft Java runtime engine. Always be wary of emotionally charged emails and check up on suspicious information.

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  Not to be confused by 'free download', freeware is a term used to describe programs which are free of cost, does not expire at the end of a trial period, and is not paid for through advertisements. There are wildly different degrees of the the term 'free' as used by freeware. Some programs are free for personal use. Some programs are free to download, use, and redistribute for any reason without cost. It's important to read the EULA in programs which you are not familiar. Be aware that there are many types of programs misrepresented as freeware.

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  'Shareware' is a term used to describe software which is usually limited to some extent in its EULA. Most shareware is limited by a trial period. Many programs come in a free version and a paid version. Be aware that the free version of the program is usually powered by advertisements or has features crippled in some fashion, often with the intent of annoying you into purchasing the full version after you have become accustomed to the program.

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  'Trialware' is a term used to describe software which is usable only during a trial period, either for a set period of time (such as 30 days) or for a set number of uses (such as 50 uses), and possibly by other means.

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  Malware is a term used to describe malicious programs; this term is broader than virus. The worst forms of malware integrate with your system in such a way that removal is difficult or impossible by conventional means.

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  Adware is a term used to describe a program, usually free of up front cost, which you pay for by allowing advertisements to run inside or alongside the program. Such programs will often collect marketing data in an attempt to display ads targeted more towards you. The main difference between adware and malware is that adware discloses the policies of its controlling company.
It is important to note that while not all adware is malicious, most implementations are lacking in up front disclosure of what information is being collected as well as how it is used or sold.

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  Spyware is a type of malware that attempts to secretly monitor system activity. These may detect passwords or other confidential information and transmit them to another system.

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