What is an antivirus?
WHAT IS AN ANTIVIRUS?
An antivirus is a software designed to detect, prevent, or completely eliminate malicious software. These programs, which have their foundation in detecting computer viruses, have expanded their usage due to the development of information technology and the emergence of new types of viruses.
As much as computer and internet technologies facilitate our lives today, they also bring along certain risks. Malicious software is one of the main risks. These software, prepared by cyber criminals, aim to directly harm the user or an organizational structure, cause damage, or make money. You can refer to our article titled “Antivirus Solutions” for a detailed discussion on this topic.
With the increasing threats and the emergence of new viruses every day, numerous antivirus programs have been released. While some fall short in terms of security, many of them provide sufficient protection. The most popular antivirus programs in use today are:
Kaspersky Anti-Virus
Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
Norton Antivirus Standard
Symantec Endpoint Protection 14
Panda Antivirus
WHAT DOES AN ANTIVIRUS PROGRAM DO?
Computers and many technological devices are at risk from various threats that can come through the internet. Often, these attacks can also attempt to infiltrate through external memory devices. To address all these issues, the use of antivirus programs is necessary.
Antivirus programs not only help eliminate existing threats, but also prepare for potential infiltration attempts in the future and create a barrier between the computer and the network during these infiltration moments. This way, the risk of damage is minimized.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO USE AN ANTIVIRUS?
In the world of technology, cyber attacks occur through software rather than physical intervention. Individuals’ and organizations’ computers, other hardware, and network systems are constantly under the threat of these malicious software. If antivirus solutions are not employed, systems will inevitably suffer permanent damage. The advantages provided by antivirus usage can be outlined under several headings:
Viruses are blocked
System performance is enhanced
Prevention of malicious individuals from accessing data
Parental control is established
Personal information used in payment transactions is kept secure
