malware - can it spread to another computer?

john_orford · Sep 24, 2012

I've just formatted and re-partitioned my HD for personal reasons. I know I've been carrying malware that sends out spam. I have not yet re-connected to the Net (RG45 disconnected). However we have a router and another computer uses it.
1) Is it likely the other computer can have been infected through the router?
2) Can the router be either infected or in any other way be at risk of future infection?
That is to say - having cleaned the HD, are we now as safe as we ever can be?

I run WINXP SP 2, Avast 7 free. The other computer is a laptop, WIN7, WIN anti-virus.

chaslang · Sep 24, 2012

Welcome to Major Geeks!

john_orford said: ↑

1) Is it likely the other computer can have been infected through the router?
Click to expand...

I would not say "likely" but it is possible especially if you have file sharing enabled between the PCs.

john_orford said: ↑

2) Can the router be either infected or in any other way be at risk of future infection?
Click to expand...

Yes routers can and do get infected. Sometimes just a simple reset back to factory condition ( usually there is a button you can press and hold for a number of seconds to do this ) and then simply setting up your network again is good enough. But sometimes it has been necessary to reburn the firmware ( or a new version of firmware ) into the router.

john_orford said: ↑

That is to say - having cleaned the HD, are we now as safe as we ever can be?
Click to expand...

Yes, if you have installed all the proper protection software and taken other precautions.... see below:

How to Protect yourself from malware!

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malware - can it spread to another computer?

john_orford Private E-2

chaslang MajorGeeks Admin - Master Malware Expert Staff Member