Antivirus: What is antivirus software and what is it used for?
What is an antivirus?
Originally, antivirus software detected, blocked, and removed malicious software attempting to infect a computer or device. However, with technological advancements, cyber threats evolved, and antivirus programs became more complex solutions capable of detecting the various types of malware that emerged, thus addressing other security risks in the digital world.
In fact, they use technology such as Machine Learning to detect more sophisticated threats.
If we take as a reference one of the best-known antivirus programs such as ESET NOD32 , an antivirus (also known as antimalware ) provides 24/7 real-time protection against the various types of malware that exist today, such as Trojans, viruses, ransomware, adware, worms, backdoors, infostealers, exploits, among others.
But it also has other features, such as anti-phishing protection , which detects fake sites that impersonate legitimate sites to steal passwords or download malware and that arrive through emails, messages or directly from sites we find while browsing the Internet.
An important aspect of antivirus software is that it must be constantly updated to protect users from the malicious programs that emerge daily. Another important feature is that it shouldn't affect computer performance. In other words, it shouldn't slow down the user's daily tasks. This is a highly valued quality when evaluating antivirus software.
However, Digital security presents a greater challenge in today's world. Therefore, in this article we will analyze the purpose of antivirus software today, what threats it can protect us from, and what its main features are.
Clarification: Although the term "antivirus" has lost most of its original meaning, it is still commonly used to refer to modern and advanced security solutions. However, instead of talking about antivirus software, it's more accurate to use the terms antimalware or security solutions.
What is an antivirus used for?
What is a security solution?
As we said, a security solution detects, blocks and removes different types of malware that exist today, but it also includes other protective features against the security risks that exist today.
The most comprehensive security solutions offer the following features:
- Password manager: you only need to remember one master password to securely store your passwords across all devices.
- Ransomware protection: blocks malware that tries to deny you access to your own data.
- Anti-theft security: blocks brute force attacks, a method of discovering a password by systematically trying combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- VPN: Secures your network connection in public and private spaces, prevents data theft and unwanted tracking, and keeps you safe with an anonymous IP address.
- Safe browsing: Safe browsing mode and the privacy extension are key to keeping your data safe when shopping, banking, and socializing online.
- Anti-phishing protection: Blocks attempts by fake websites to acquire sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, or credit cards.
- Data encryption: Encrypts files and removable media, such as USB drives, in the Windows operating system.
What does an antivirus protect us from?
A security solution provides protection against:
- Various types of malware , such as ransomware, Trojans, adware, viruses, worms, backdoors, malicious browser extensions, and fraudulent applications.
- Fake or suspicious sites.
- Theft of our financial data .
- Theft of our login credentials.
- Violation of our privacy.
- Theft of our equipment.
Is an antivirus enough to stay protected?
The best possible scenario is that of a user educated in information security with an advanced technology solution such as those from ESET .
We cannot lose sight of the fact that for cybercriminals this is a lucrative business, which is why they are constantly looking for new techniques and strategies to deceive their victims.
Which is the best antivirus?
Protecting your digital life has never been more important than it is now.
In a world rife with cyber threats, choosing the best antivirus is essential to keeping what matters most safe: your information, your devices, and your family. ESET Home Security solutions are designed to provide comprehensive, easy-to-use protection with minimal impact on your devices' performance.
With ESET, you'll be protected against malware, viruses, ransomware, data theft , and much more. Plus, you'll have access to advanced technologies like a password manager , secure VPN , protection against device loss or theft , identity protection, and secure online payments.
It's not just about protecting your computer or phone; it's about protecting your entire digital home. Complement this solution with education and best practices, and you'll be taking firm steps toward a safe online experience.
By: Christian Ali Bravo - ESET LATAM
