What is the primary purpose of antivirus software?

The primary purpose of antivirus software is to detect and protect against viruses and other malicious software. This functionality is crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of computer systems. Antivirus programs work by scanning files and applications for known signatures of malware, as well as using heuristic analysis to identify suspicious behavior that could indicate a new or unknown virus. They play a vital role in preventing infections that can lead to data loss, compromised systems, and unauthorized access.

This protective capability allows users and organizations to safeguard sensitive information, maintain system performance, and ensure compliance with security policies. It also contributes to overall system reliability by often including features for real-time protection and automatic updates to keep the software equipped against the latest threats. Such preventive measures are essential in the constantly evolving landscape of cybersecurity.