Antivirus software is a set of programs that can prevent, detect, remove, and search for different viruses or other malware software like worms, trojan, adware, etc. Basically, the computer devices use this software but, it also works on networks and IT systems. Furthermore, it is not sufficient to just install this software rather, we also have to update them from time to time.

Functions of an Antivirus Software

Antivirus software keeps running as a background process. Furthermore, it keeps scanning the device or and servers for any malware threat. It performs the functions as follows:

1. Scans the specific files and directories for malware patterns which can indicate any malware.

2.       Allows the users to schedule scans according to them. Moreover, it then performs the scan at the scheduled time.

3. Users can also scan the system anytime they want.

4. If it detects any malicious software it removes it from the system. Furthermore, some software does this itself in the background. On the other hand, some software asks permission or inform the user before removing them.

5. Thus, it makes sure that the system is always safe for work.

Working of Antivirus Software

If a virus enters a system it affects the working by making changes in the files and directories. Moreover, it can also slow down the working of the system and also delete important files. Whenever the antivirus detects any malware syntax or any such activities, it tries to remove these files. Moreover, it alerts the user about the virus too.

Advantages of Antivirus Software

The advantages of antivirus software are as follows:

1. It detects, blocks, and removes viruses and malware from the system.

2. It warns about dangerous websites, attachments, links, advertisements, etc.

3. Prevents identity threats.

4. Blocks phishing.

5. Keeps the online activities and accounts protected.

6. Protects the system from getting slow or corrupted.

7. Protects the data and files from deleting.

8. Therefore, helps to run the computer system smoothly.

Examples of Antivirus Software

There are several antiviruses available these days. They are as follows:

1. Microsoft Defender

2. Norton 360

3. Bitdefender Antivirus

4. Malwarebytes

5. McAfee Total Protection

6. ESET NOD32 Antivirus etc.