Antivirus Definition
Antivirus is software designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software, also known as malware. This includes viruses, Trojans, spyware, worms, and ransomware. The purpose of antivirus software is to secure the user’s computer and data and ensure the smooth operation of computing systems.
Antivirus Key Points
- Antivirus software monitors and safeguards computer systems from malicious programs or malware.
- They detect, prevent, and remove viruses, Trojans, worms, spyware, and ransomware.
- Their main goal is to secure the user’s data and ensure smooth operation of computer systems.
What is an Antivirus?
Antivirus software is a program designed to guard a computing system against the intrusion of malicious software. It is an essential tool for preventing virus-infected files from causing damage to the system. The software continuously scans and observes data—files, directories, and software—to detect and block malware activity.
Why is Antivirus important?
Antivirus software is important because it protects against data loss, theft, and damage caused by malware. As part of a broader cybersecurity strategy, it helps to safeguard personal and classified information, which, if compromised, could lead to financial loss or identity theft. It also protects the reliability and performance of your computing system by preventing unauthorized access and changes to the system.
When to use Antivirus?
Antivirus software should be in use whenever a computer system is operating. This is because threats often come in the form of regular-looking files or websites and you could unknowingly install or download malicious software. Using antivirus software continuously will help identify and remove threats before they can do any damage.
Where does Antivirus Work?
Antivirus software operates in the background on your computer system, scanning all data that comes into it and goes out of it. This includes files, applications, and internet data on hard drives, removable drives, the cloud, and network servers.
How does an Antivirus work?
Antivirus software works by scanning your computer based on a database of known malware signatures. These signatures are characteristics or patterns unique to specific malware. When it identifies a match, it isolates it from the system, then attempts to remove or quarantine the threat. Some advanced antivirus software also uses machine learning for proactive protection against new, unrecognized threats.
