Cyber security companies originally gained popularity as a proven true “antivirus” software for all-round virus detection. However, as threats have evolved, many companies have often extended their threat detection capabilities while retaining the original “antivirus” name. Basically, you can find anti-malware tools in some antivirus software, but not all. Malware removal tools and antivirus software are complementary and can work together to maximize the security of your device.
VIRUS VS. MALWARE
Computer viruses spread from user to user by replicating themselves by programming files. Antivirus uses signature-based detection to identify known threats. This type of detection matches file signatures against a database of known malware. Conversely, antimalware uses heuristic-based detection to proactively find source code that represents a threat.
IS ANTIMALWARE THE SAME AS ANTIVIRUS
Both antivirus and antimalware programs are designed to detect and protect against malicious software. Although the term antivirus only refers to protection against computer viruses, its function often protects against many common forms of malware today. Antimalware programs go a step further and focus on the broader and more advanced software threats. To understand the topic, we refer to antivirus software under the assumption that it has not been upgraded for malware detection and protection.
Antimalware and antivirus programs are not the same thing. Together with healthy online habits, they complement each other to serve as the highest level of defense against malicious software. Antimalware programs detect more advanced forms of malware, such as zero-day attacks, while antivirus software defends against more established threats.
WHAT DOES ANTIVIRUS MEAN
Basic antivirus software scans your machine for known viruses. In general, free antiviruses offer only a minimal layer of protection against classic viruses such as keyloggers and worms, while premium versions protect against advanced threats and even offer malware removal tools.
WHAT IS ANTIMALWARE SOFTWARE
Cyber threats are constantly evolving. Antivirus software can protect against common types of viruses, but antimalware software detects new iterations of the infection. Antimalware software defends against second-generation malware that traditional antivirus software doesn’t always detect.
WHAT SHOULD YOUR ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE INCLUDE?
Key indicators of well-rounded antivirus software include:
- Real-time scanning: Background scanning means that the program detects threats when they occur.
- Automatic Updates: Updates target all new forms of malware after installation.
- Threat Removal: Software must not only detect and block malware, but also remove it.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN ANTIMALWARE SOFTWARE
If you’re looking for separate anti-malware software or buying an antivirus with added features, look for a program that includes:
- Sandboxing: This controlled environment allows software to test for suspected threats and determine whether it is safe to use.
- Traffic Filtering: This type of filtering protects your device by blocking access to suspicious servers and sites associated with malware distribution.
- Proactive Security: Software must detect, detect and remove known malware threats such as Trojans, adware and spyware.
DO YOU NEED ANTIVIRUS AND ANTIMALWARE?
Antivirus seems to be the smaller of the two security software, so why do you need both?
Antimalware focuses on new threats, and antivirus protects you from older versions that can still harm your device, like worms and phishing attacks.
Think of an antivirus as a proactive protection against threats that infect your device while the antimalware root and destroy activated malware. Both applications provide maximum protection against the growing threat of malware attacks.
As cyber-attacks become more prevalent and clever, antimalware programs adapt and protect. However, this does not limit the need for antivirus protection. Both programs run concurrently and your safe web browsing habits give you maximum protection from threats trying to get into your device.
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