what is antivirus software

What is anti-malware and how does it work?

Bryn Glover,

The internet offers countless opportunities, but it also presents a range of security challenges. Malware, short for malicious software, is a threat that can compromise your data, privacy and digital life.

In order to safeguard your devices and sensitive information, it is crucial to understand what anti-malware software is, and how it plays a role in protecting you or your business online.

Table of Contents

What is malware?

Malware, short for malicious software, is a term that refers to a diverse range of software designed specifically to harm, exploit or infiltrate computer systems and networks. If you run or are creating a business website, it’s one of the major online threats you’ll need to look out for.

Malware can take on various forms, including viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, spyware and adware. Each type of malware has its own destructive or intrusive capabilities, making it a persistent threat to businesses and individuals.

Anti-malware or antivirus?

Antivirus and anti-malware are two related categories of cybersecurity tools designed to protect computer systems and networks against malicious software threats.

Antivirs software is a subset of antimalware tools. Its primary focus is to detect and prevent traditional forms of malicious software, such as trojans or viruses. Antivirus software is most effective against well-established, common forms of malware.

Anti-malware software, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive form of protection that encompasses a wider variety of threats. It is designed to combat evolving threats and often uses more advanced detection methods.

what is anti-malware software?

What is anti-malware software?

Anti-malware software – often known as antivirus software – is a specialised online tool designed to identify, quarantine and then remove malicious software from your physical or digital device, including smartphones, laptops, websites and servers.

The primary service of antivirus software is to detect and defend you or your business against a wide range of threats, keeping your system safe from infection and your data secure.

Anti-malware software: Key functions

Anti-malware software performs a range of functions, depending on the form of antivirus you choose. In the sections below, we’ve provided a little more information.

You can click any of the options above to skip ahead and find out more.

Scanning

Anti-malware software scans your device, searching for known malware signatures, suspicious files, and behaviour that may indicate a threat.

Real-time protection

Many antivirus solutions offer real-time protection. This means that they monitor your device for signs of malicious activity and block threats before they can cause harm.

Quarantine

When suspicious files or malware are detected, anti-malware software isolates them in a secure ‘quarantine’ area. This prevents the malware from causing damage to other parts of your device or network.

Automatic updates

To remain effective, anti-malware programs regularly update their database of known threats and malware definitions to stay on top of emerging threats. This means that you can feel confident that your security will evolve alongside the risks you come up against.

Scheduled scans

Users can configure regular scans of their devices to make sure that malware doesn’t go undetected. Normally, you can arrange for scans to occur at specific times of the day or at a specific frequency to stay on top of your security.

Malware removal

Once it has identified it, your antivirus software will safely remove threats from your devices, making sure that it doesn’t cause any further harm.

Why anti-malware software is important

Antivirus software offers a range of benefits for business users and personal users. Take a look at the sections below to find out more about those benefits.

You can select any of the options in the list above. Otherwise, you can just continue reading below.

Protection from threats

The digital world is full of malware, and malware can come in a number of forms.

Antivirus software provides a broad defence against viruses, Trojans, ransomware and more.

Real-time threat monitoring

Antivirus software is vigilant, continuously checking for suspicious activity and files that may put your system or data at risk.

Data and identity protection

Antivirus software safeguards your personal information, financial data and sensitive documentation from theft or destruction.

Safe browsing

Many of the best anti-malware tools include browser extensions to protect against malicious websites, phishing attempts and harmful downloads. When installed, these extensions will typically warn you against completing certain actions, or block you from being able to altogether.

Maintain system performance

A well-maintained antivirus program can help keep your devices running smoothly by preventing malware-related slowdowns and crashes.

Compliance

In many professional settings, you will be required to use anti-malware software to meet regulatory guidelines and security compliance standards.

What is anti-malware software? Final thoughts

In a digital world where threats evolve constantly, anti-malware software plays a vital role in securing your digital lives, both personal and business.

By scanning, detecting and neutralising malware, antivirus software acts as a digital shield, protecting your devices, data and online activity from a wide range of threats.

To maintain a secure and reliable digital environment, it is essential to invest in quality anti-malware software.

Picture of Bryn Glover

Bryn Glover

Bryn is the founder and editor of WebsiteJumpStart. He has worked in the digital field for over a decade and was editor for Startups.co.uk - the UK's leading small business website - and for NerdWallet UK before launching WebsiteJumpStart to help people and businesses get online with ease.
what is a website backup

What is a website backup? Definition & why it matters

Whether you run a website for personal use or as a business, it’s important to realise that it is a valuable digital asset. However, in the unpredictable online world, websites can be vulnerable to various risks, such as hacking, data corruption or server failure.  To ensure the long-term security of

Read More »
November 6, 2023 No Comments
what is a password manager

What is a password manager? Definition & features

In an online world password security is vital. But, with countless accounts and services used every day, keeping track of passwords has become a significant challenge for most people. Password managers have emerged as a solution to this problem, providing a secure and convenient way to manage and protect your

Read More »
November 6, 2023 No Comments
what is an ssl certificate

What is an SSL certificate? Definition & why it matters

With online transactions, personal data sharing and information exchange becoming increasingly common online, ensuring the safety of data is critical for any website. One of the key tools for achieving this security is the SSL certificate. In this article, we’ll explore what an SSL certificate is, why it matters, and

Read More »
November 6, 2023 No Comments
what is website security

What is website security? How to keep your site secure

Websites play an integral role in personal and professional lives, with businesses and individuals around the world relying on them for a number of reasons. That’s why it is crucial to prioritise website security. Cyberattacks, data breaches and online threats are a real danger, making protecting your online assets more

Read More »
November 6, 2023 No Comments