Antivirus software is the frontline defense that keeps your computer, smartphone, and network safe from malicious software. From sneaky viruses to sophisticated ransomware, antivirus tools help detect, block, and remove threats before they cause damage.

What antivirus actually does

• Scans files for known malware signatures.

• Monitors behavior to catch suspicious processes.

• Blocks websites and downloads that are risky.

• Quarantines infected files so they can’t spread.

Types of threats antivirus defends against

• Viruses & worms — self-replicating code.

• Trojan horses — disguised as legitimate apps.

• Ransomware — encrypts files and demands payment.

• Spyware & adware — steal data or display intrusive ads.

• Phishing attacks — often blocked by browser protections within suites.

Why you can’t skip antivirus

Even with safe habits, humans make mistakes — clicking phishing links, downloading files from untrusted sites, or using outdated software with vulnerabilities. Antivirus reduces risk by catching threats automatically.

Modern antivirus is more than scanning

Many products now bundle firewalls, VPNs, password managers, and real-time web protection. This creates layered security — the best way to keep modern attackers at bay.