Episode 169 - Dellinger's Viruses episode artwork

EPISODE · Oct 26, 2025 · 26 MIN

Episode 169 - Dellinger's Viruses

from Advent of Computing

In 1981 Joe Dellinger attempted to create the perfect computer program: a virus that spread silently. In 1982 a revision of that virus broke containment. It would have remained completely hidden if it wasn't for an obscure Apple II game. Today we look at the story and motivation behind that virus, and how it slipped into the sands of time. Or... did it!? The truth is if you have an Apple II it may be infected with Dellinger's virus! My main source: https://virus.wdfiles.com/local--files/applvir/Applvir.txt  

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Episode 169 - Dellinger's Viruses

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This episode is 26 minutes long.

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This episode was published on October 26, 2025.

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In 1981 Joe Dellinger attempted to create the perfect computer program: a virus that spread silently. In 1982 a revision of that virus broke containment. It would have remained completely hidden if it wasn't for an obscure Apple II game....

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