Antivirus software, also known as anti-malware or anti-virus software, is a type of program designed to prevent, detect, and remove malicious software, commonly known as malware, from a computer system.
The following are the key features of antivirus software:
Real-time scanning: Antivirus software continuously scans your computer in real-time, monitoring all the files, programs, and processes running on your system, and checking them against a database of known malware signatures. If it detects any suspicious behavior or malicious activity, it will alert you or take action to remove the threat.
Virus definition updates: Antivirus software regularly updates its database of known malware signatures to stay up-to-date with the latest threats. This ensures that the software can detect and remove the latest viruses and other types of malware that are circulating on the internet.
Quarantine: When antivirus software detects a threat, it will often quarantine the infected file or program to prevent it from spreading or causing further damage to your system. The quarantined file or program is isolated from the rest of your system, allowing you to safely delete it or restore it if necessary.
Scanning options: Most antivirus software allows you to perform various types of scans, such as quick scans, full system scans, and custom scans. Quick scans check the most commonly infected areas of your system, while full system scans check your entire system. Custom scans allow you to select specific files, folders, or drives to scan.
Browser protection: Many antivirus programs include browser protection features that can block malicious websites, prevent phishing attacks, and warn you about unsafe downloads.
Firewall: Some antivirus programs include a firewall, which can help prevent unauthorized access to your computer by blocking incoming and outgoing network traffic.
Overall, antivirus software is an essential tool for protecting your computer from malware, viruses, and other online threats. By regularly updating your antivirus software and running scans on your system, you can help ensure that your computer remains safe and secure.