EXE files can be useful but also harmful. They automatically execute code when opened, making them a target for viruses. To protect against malicious files, only download from trusted sources, check file properties, and use antivirus software.
Files with the .exe extension, known as EXE files, can be harmful to a computer, but they are not always harmful. In fact, EXE files can be immensely useful. There are a number of techniques people can use to protect themselves from malicious EXE files, making sure they only open files that are safe.
If a file has an .exe extension, it means that when someone clicks on it, the file automatically executes the code. A classic use of an .exe file is in compressed software available for download. Someone downloads the EXE file, clicks it, and the file automatically runs an installer that extracts the contents of the file and allows the user to set some settings. The file can contain anything from a word processing program to a game.
Many software developers release their products online in the form of EXE files for people to download. This is designed for convenience, so people can install software right away, rather than having to order it and wait for installation discs. Unfortunately, this practice has accustomed computer users to being able to download EXE files, and as a result, people are sometimes less careful than they should be.
Malicious EXE files can perform a variety of operations that can be harmful to a computer. The file might install a virus when opened or tell the computer to do something like randomly delete files. Since the EXE file starts automatically when it is opened, the computer user does not have the opportunity to step in and stop the file if it becomes apparent that they are doing something malicious.
The first tip to avoid malicious EXE files is to download and open only EXE files from trusted sources. For example, if someone wants a common Windows utility, they should go to the official Windows website to download it, not some unknown third-party site. For downloading various programs, it’s a good idea to go to the program’s official site or use a service like CNet, which checks all the files on its site for malicious materials. Accepting EXE files from friends is also not advisable, as someone may not be aware that a file has a virus.
People can also get information about an EXE file without having to open it, by selecting it and going to the “properties” tab in the menu. The properties should include a description of the file and the author; if the description and author look strange, the file may not be safe to open. Finally, antivirus software can be used to scan EXE files before opening them to confirm they are virus-free. Users can also set their operating systems to prompt them when they open an EXE file, asking if they want to continue; this also helps people avoid accidentally opening an EXE file.
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