Antivirus

Antivirus Software designed to assist in the detection, prevention, and removal of malware (malicious software).

Antivirus software is used to protect computers from viruses by scanning, detecting, and removing them. Most software operates in the background once installed, providing real-time protection against virus attacks.

Effective virus protection systems guard your files and hardware against malware like worms, Trojan horses, and spyware, and may also include features like customised firewalls and website blocking.

While some operating systems are more commonly targeted by virus writers, antivirus software is available for nearly all of them:

• Antivirus software for Windows. Most software companies provide a variety of Windows solutions at various pricing points, beginning with free versions that only provide rudimentary protection. Users must initiate scans and updates manually, and free software often does not defend against harmful links in emails or malicious attachments. Endpoint security solutions, such as safe online storage, ad blockers, and file encryption, are frequently included in premium antivirus software. Since 2004, Microsoft has included some type of free antivirus software as part of the Windows operating system, dubbed Windows Defender, though prior to 2006, the software was largely limited to identifying spyware.
• Antivirus software for macOS. Because macOS viruses are less common than Windows viruses, software for macOS is less standardised than software for Windows. There are a variety of free and commercial products available that provide on-demand malware protection through full-system malware scans and the ability to sift through specific email threads, attachments, and browser activities.
• Antivirus software for Android. Android is the most popular mobile operating system in the world, with more devices running it than any other. Because the majority of mobile malware targets Android devices, experts advise that all Android users install antivirus software. Vendors offer both free and premium versions of their Android software, which include anti-theft and remote-location functions. Some organisations use automated scans and actively strive to prevent dangerous web sites and files from being opened or downloaded.