Every computer user should know how an antivirus works, and here’s why
We have used computers for more than 20 years in our daily lives, whether for work or for private use. These computers facilitate work, leisure, shopping, etc., and are indispensable. Today, it is difficult to find a home without at least one computer inside. This proves how useful they are.
But with a large number of computers in the world also comes a large number of cyber threats, because it is in human nature to try to uncover secrets. These cyber threats take several forms, such as viruses, malware, spyware, etc., and have over the years become increasingly intelligent, formidable and adaptable to all situations.
In this article we discuss antivirus software and how it works.
What is an antivirus?
An antivirus is a protection program that actively protects computers and the files stored on them. An antivirus has become an essential element of cybersecurity because almost all computers are connected to the Internet in some way, and the Internet has become the transport medium for viruses and other cyber threats.
How does an antivirus work?
The operation of an antivirus is as follows: the antivirus starts with the operating system and runs at the kernel level to have access to all programs, drivers, applications, etc. This guarantees proper operation and total control over all computer operations.
Once launched, the antivirus performs what is called a continuous system scan of the system, meaning it scans all running tasks, as well as all files requested by programs or software. By doing so, it will have an edge over potential viruses and will be able to neutralize them before they cause damage.
The antivirus also monitors all network activities (Internet and intranet) using firewalls, anti-phishing filters, anti-malware filters, etc., ensuring the computer’s security against network attacks.
In addition to that, there are also controls on web browser activities to prevent the execution of dangerous scripts for the computer.
The list is long when it comes to how antivirus software works, because different publishers have their own methods that make them stand out from the competition.
What are the benefits of antivirus software?
The benefits of antivirus software are several and vary from one user to another. For example, a person who uses a computer that is not connected to Internet and is only plugged into a single machine, the antivirus may not be essential in this particular case, because the data on the machine is probably not important.
However, a person who uses their computer for online work, online shopping, social networks, etc., should have antivirus installed on their computer, and a good one on top of that. Because if you decide to take a free antivirus or not very effective, you might as well try your luck without antivirus since the result will be more or less the same.
Here is a list of scenarios where having an antivirus is beneficial.
- The computer is connected to Internet. If you use a computer connected to Internet, it is highly advisable to have antivirus installed on the machine, because most cyber threats come from the Internet.
- The computer belongs to a company or business. Cybersecurity in this kind of situation is more than important, because if it is taken lightly, the company will suffer a lot in case of an attack.
- The computer is in a place with multiple users. For example, the computer belongs to a library, a university, etc., and is used by several people with USB sticks coming from all over. Having antivirus can save your computer from cyber threats.
How to protect your computer even more, even with antivirus?
There are situations where even with antivirus, the risk of infection remains high. Here is how to help your computer face cyber threats.
- Install an excellent antivirus. This is the first step: you must install a high-performance antivirus that is globally recognized for its performance. Currently, there are several high-performing antivirus on the market, and among them Norton, which has existed for many years. It has repeatedly received the award for the best antivirus, and if you wish to read the opinions of cybersecurity experts on this product, click here and you will certainly not be disappointed considering it.
- Avoid ads. Ads are generally carriers of malware, spyware and other cyber threats. Therefore, avoiding them is an excellent barrier gesture.
- Use a complex password for everything. Having a complex password on all of your accounts (Windows, emails, Android, social networks, etc.) will reduce the risk of being hacked or of someone installing a malicious program on your machine. If you work in a company and your computer is accessible to everyone, a password that blocks access to your computer/session is your best friend, and you must choose it sufficiently complex to avoid it being guessed.
- Update the system and the software/tools. The antivirus relies on constant updates to protect your computer effectively. By updating the system and all installed software/tools, you will reduce the risk of infection by a virus.
- Scan all peripherals. Make sure to scan USB drives, memory cards, external hard drives, etc., and any other device with memory on it.
With these practical tips and the information about antivirus software, you now know that such a protective tool is of great necessity in our current world. Cyber threats must be taken very seriously, as it generally only takes a moment of inattention to lose very valuable data about you or your money.
