Viral proteins are essential components produced by viruses during their replication process. These proteins play various roles, including forming the virus's protective outer shell, facilitating entry into host cells, and evading the host's immune response. Each virus has a unique set of proteins that contribute to its specific functions and characteristics. In addition to structural roles, viral proteins can also manipulate the host's cellular machinery to enhance viral replication. For example, some proteins may interfere with the host's immune system, allowing the virus to persist and spread. Understanding these proteins is crucial for developing antiviral therapies and vaccines against viral infections like influenza and HIV.