Rootkits have been a threat to computer security since the early 2000s. They are malicious software that can infiltrate a computer system without detection, and once installed, they give the attacker complete control of the system. Rootkits are designed to remain hidden from the user, the antivirus software, and the operating system.
In this article, we are going to explore how rootkits work, their impact, and what you can do to protect yourself from them.
## What exactly is a rootkit?
A rootkit is a type of malware that provides the attacker with control over the system. It is generally installed through a vulnerability or by exploiting a system’s security weakness. Once a rootkit is installed, it is able to hide its presence from the user and other software on the system.
A rootkit may install hidden processes, hidden files, hidden registry keys, and even hidden drivers. It can intercept system functions to prevent its detection by antivirus software.
The name “rootkit” comes from the term “root access,” a type of absolute control that attackers gain when they install a rootkit. It is similar to how the superuser or Administrator account works, but in this case, the attacker has the same level of privileges.
## How do rootkits work?
There are two main types of rootkits: user-mode and kernel-mode. Each works in a different way.
### User-mode rootkits
User-mode rootkits are installed as regular software on your system. They generally require some form of user interaction, such as running a software installation or downloading a file from the internet. Once you have given a user-mode rootkit permission to install, it can hide its presence by manipulating the operating system.
A common way that user-mode rootkits remain hidden is by altering system functions. For example, processes that would normally be visible to you in Task Manager or Activity Monitor are hidden by the rootkit, so you never see them.
### Kernel-mode rootkits
Kernel-mode rootkits are more powerful and more difficult to detect than user-mode rootkits. They operate at the kernel level of the operating system, which means they have access to all system resources and can manipulate them to their advantage.
Kernel-mode rootkits are installed in much the same way as user-mode rootkits, but they are designed to install hidden drivers that hijack the system calls made by the operating system. This gives the rootkit complete control over the system without being detected.
## What are the effects of a rootkit?
Rootkits can have several negative effects on your computer. The most common are:
### Slowdowns
Rootkits are resource-intensive and can cause your computer to slow down significantly. This is because the rootkit is always running in the background, using up CPU cycles and other resources.
### Data theft
Many rootkits are designed to steal data from your computer. This can include your personal information, login credentials, and financial data.
### System crashes
Rootkits can also cause system crashes or blue screens of death (BSOD). This is because they can interfere with critical system files and functions.
## How can you protect yourself from rootkits?
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from rootkits.
### Install antivirus software
Antivirus software is designed to detect and remove malware, including rootkits. Make sure you have a reliable antivirus program installed and that it is up to date.
### Keep your operating system up to date
Operating systems are often updated to address security vulnerabilities and other issues. Keeping your operating system up to date is an important step in protecting yourself from rootkits and other forms of malware.
### Be careful what you download and install
Be wary of downloading and installing software from unknown sources. Always check the source of the software to ensure it is legitimate.
### Use a firewall
A firewall can help prevent unauthorized access to your computer. It can also help detect and block incoming connections from known malicious sources.
### Use anti-rootkit software
Anti-rootkit software is designed specifically to detect and remove rootkits. It can be an effective tool in protecting your computer from rootkits.
## Conclusion
Rootkits have been a threat to computer security for many years. They are designed to remain hidden from users, antivirus software, and the operating system itself. They can cause slowdowns, data theft, and system crashes.
Protecting yourself from rootkits requires a combination of measures, including installing antivirus software, keeping your operating system up to date, being careful what you download and install, using a firewall, and using anti-rootkit software.
By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to a rootkit and keep your computer and data safe.
