Anti-malware is software that protects computers from harmful programs. It has several key functions:
Detection:
- Scan files and programs for known threats
- Use heuristics to identify suspicious behaviour
- Monitor system activities in real-time
Prevention:
- Block malicious downloads
- Prevent unauthorised system changes
- Isolate potentially harmful files
Removal:
- Delete or quarantine detected malware
- Clean infected files when possible
- Restore system settings after an attack
Updates:
- Regularly update threat definitions
- Improve detection algorithms
- Adapt to new types of malware
Reporting:
- Log detected threats and actions taken
- Provide alerts to users or administrators
- Generate security status reports
Anti-malware is essential for maintaining computer and network security.