Malware
Boot Sector Virus
Also known as: MBR virus, VBR virus
Definition
A virus that infects the boot sector or master boot record of a disk so it runs before the operating system loads.
Examples
- Stoned and Michelangelo, classic MBR viruses spread via floppy disks.
- Petya's MBR overwrite component that prevented Windows from booting.
Related terms
Computer Virus
Malicious code that inserts copies of itself into other programs or files and executes when the host is run.
Bootkit
Malware that infects the boot process — MBR, VBR, or UEFI — to load before the operating system and obtain persistent, privileged control.
UEFI Rootkit
A rootkit implanted in UEFI firmware that loads before the OS, persists across disk wipes, and bypasses most endpoint security.
Rootkit
Stealth malware that grants and hides privileged access to an operating system or device, evading detection by standard tools.
Stealth Malware
Malware specifically engineered to evade detection by users, security tools, and forensic investigators through hiding, mimicry, and anti-analysis tricks.
Firmware Malware
Malicious code that lives in device firmware — BIOS/UEFI, network cards, drives, or peripherals — surviving OS reinstalls and most endpoint defences.