Antivirus software, also known as anti-malware, is a computer program used to prevent, detect, and remove malware. Malware refers to any software designed to harm a computer system, such as viruses, worms, trojans, adware, and more. Antivirus software scans files or a computers memory for certain patterns that may indicate the presence of malicious software. It looks for patterns based on the signatures or definitions of known malware. Antivirus software typically runs as a background process, scanning computers, servers, or mobile devices to detect and restrict the spread of malware. Many antivirus software programs include real-time threat detection and protection to guard against potential vulnerabilities and perform system scans that monitor device and system files, looking for possible risks. Antivirus software usually performs the following basic functions:
- Scans specific files or directories for any malware or known malicious patterns.
- Allows you to schedule scans to automatically run for you.
- Allows you to initiate a scan of a particular file or your entire computer, or of a CD or flash drive at any time.
Antivirus software provides real-time protection through automated vulnerability scans. It protects devices against malware and viruses through a combination of prevention, detection, and removal. Antivirus solutions protect not only laptops, office computers, smartphones, and tablets but also precious memories, music and photo libraries, and important documents from destruction by malware.
