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Antivirus is software that prevents malware infections, detects existing threats or attacks, and eradicates them from singular computing devices or entire IT systems. It works by analyzing websites, files, installed programs, and other user data to parse for known threats; it then monitors day-to-day program behavior to flag anomalies that may be indicative of malware activity.

The most basic antivirus programs start by checking a device’s programs and files against a database of known types of malware. This identifies the digital fingerprint associated with each piece of malicious code, and antivirus software can then block the file or program. More sophisticated programs supplement their list of signatures with behavior-based detection tools that watch how a program behaves. These can spot suspicious activity such as a program sending out copious amounts of emails or encrypting large numbers of files at once.

As new and improved technology for malware continues to develop, it’s important to keep your antivirus software up to date. Most reputable antivirus vendors offer free and paid subscriptions that allow you to automatically receive updated malware information. Some antivirus programs can also be connected to a cloud analysis service, which allows the software to send suspicious files or applications to the vendor for more thorough testing.

People often think that only Windows computers can get viruses, but hackers are now targeting devices such as smart TVs, e-readers, and even smartphones with open-ended Web access, such as those that run iOS or Android operating systems. In addition, many cybersecurity experts believe that there will be a growing number of threats made specifically for smart home devices with Internet connectivity.