Computer Viruses: from theory to applications (Collection IRIS)

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 400 pages
• Published by: Springer
• Edition: 1st Edition September 14, 2005
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 2287239391
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-2287239397
• Book Dimensions: 9 x 6.1 x 0.9 inches
• Weighs: 1.6 pounds

Product Description
This book deals with computer viruses envisaged from three different points of view, namely the theoretical basics of computer virology, algorithmic and practical aspects of viruses and their potential applications to various areas. The theoretical formalization by means of Turing machines, self-reproducing automata and recursive functions enable a precise and exhaustive description of the different types of malware. It follows that the main stakes of computer defense and antiviral fighting are easily highlighted. Detailed analysis of the source code for representative members of each virus/worm family allows the reader to grasp the basic algorithmic aspects involved in self-reproducing codes. The C programming language has been systematically used for a better understanding of the considered codes.

Reader Reviews
Filiol takes an ab initio approach to computer viruses. He gives a description rooted in the use of a Turing machine. But also using ideas from cellular automata research. The idea is to give a rigorous understanding of viruses, that is independent of any given hardware or software. A key theme is that the code be somehow able to reproduce. But the book is not just for a theorist. He also directs it towards the user who has to devise an antivirus detector. So source code for several different types of viruses are given (in C). This lets you get a hands-on approach to tackling the problem. Of course, not all possible viruses are covered. This may be a theoretical impossibility. But enough examples are given that you can confidently understanding much that is out there.