Antivirus software

Definition:

Antivirus software is a security program that monitors, detects, and removes malicious software (malware) such as viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware from computers or networks. It helps prevent cyber threats by scanning files, monitoring system behavior, and blocking suspicious activities in real-time.

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Key Characteristics of Antivirus Software:

1. Malware Detection & Removal:
   • Identifies and eliminates viruses, trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, and rootkits.
   • Uses signature-based detection, heuristic analysis, and AI-driven threat detection.
2. Real-Time Protection & Monitoring:
   • Continuously scans files and system processes to detect malicious activity before it spreads.
   • Blocks infected files from executing.
3. Regular Virus Database Updates:
   • Keeps an up-to-date threat database to detect new and evolving malware variants.
4. Behavioral & Heuristic Analysis:
   • Identifies zero-day threats by detecting unusual behavior in applications.
   • Stops unknown or modified viruses before they execute harmful actions.
5. System & Network Scanning:
   • Scans local files, removable drives, emails, and web downloads for malicious code.
   • Some antivirus solutions scan network traffic to prevent phishing attacks and malware downloads.
6. Quarantine & Removal Features:
   • Isolates suspicious or infected files to prevent further damage.
   • Provides options to delete or repair infected files.
7. Firewall & Web Protection (Advanced Suites):
   • Blocks malicious websites, phishing links, and unauthorized network access.
   • Prevents ransomware encryption attacks by monitoring system behavior.

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Examples of Antivirus Software:

Popular Standalone Antivirus Programs:

• Windows Defender (Microsoft Defender Antivirus)
• Avast Antivirus
• Norton Antivirus Plus
• McAfee Total Protection
• Bitdefender Antivirus Plus

Enterprise-Level Security Suites:

• Symantec Endpoint Protection
• CrowdStrike Falcon
• Trend Micro Apex One
• Kaspersky Endpoint Security

Free Antivirus Solutions:

• AVG Antivirus Free
• Avira Free Security
• Sophos Home Free

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Importance of Antivirus Software:

Prevents Malware Infections:

• Protects systems from viruses, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and keyloggers.

Enhances Cybersecurity & Data Protection:

• Safeguards personal and financial information from cybercriminals.

Blocks Phishing & Online Threats:

• Prevents users from accessing fake websites, malicious downloads, and phishing emails.

Improves System Performance:

• Detects and removes malware that can slow down computers, cause crashes, or corrupt files.

Reduces the Risk of Identity Theft & Cyberattacks:

• Stops cybercriminals from stealing credentials, banking details, and confidential data.

Ensures Business & Enterprise Security Compliance:

• Helps organizations comply with GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS security regulations by preventing malware incidents.

Protects Against Ransomware & Zero-Day Threats:

• Detects sophisticated attacks that encrypt files or exploit unknown vulnerabilities.