Antivirus in a computer is software designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software (malware) such as viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, and adware. Its primary function is to protect the computer system from these threats by scanning files and programs for known malware signatures and using heuristic analysis to identify potentially harmful behavior.
An anti-virus in a computer is a program specifically developed to combat viruses and other malicious software. It works by scanning the computer’s files, software, and system memory for patterns or behaviors that match known malware, and then it takes action to remove or quarantine the identified threats to prevent them from causing harm to the system.
Antivirus software offers several advantages, including the ability to detect and remove various types of malware, providing real-time protection against new threats, and safeguarding personal and sensitive information from cybercriminals. Additionally, antivirus software can improve system performance by preventing malware-related slowdowns and ensure a secure and safe computing environment for users.
An example of antivirus software is Norton AntiVirus. Norton AntiVirus is a widely used program that offers comprehensive protection against malware, including viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, and ransomware. It provides features such as real-time scanning, automatic updates, and advanced threat detection to keep computers secure.
The types of antivirus software include standalone antivirus programs, internet security suites, and endpoint protection platforms. Standalone antivirus programs focus solely on detecting and removing malware, while internet security suites offer additional features such as firewalls, parental controls, and email protection. Endpoint protection platforms provide a more comprehensive approach, integrating antivirus capabilities with other security measures like encryption and network security to protect all devices within an organization.