

That’s why every antivirus software comes with a database of known malware and compares each scanned file to the contents of the database. However, scans cannot be effective if the program doesn’t know what it’s looking for. Ideally, the scanner should be lightweight and not hog down your device while still having a very high detection and block rate.

Plugins based on these technologies can be used to make your PC part of a botnet, inject code or do drive-by downloads. Some AVs also block malicious ActiveX or Java scripts from infecting your PC. Then there is the full system scan, where the antivirus goes through every nook and cranny of your device in order to find malware or any other suspicious software or files. It’s all done in the background, and the scanned file or program only opens once the antivirus has finished the scan. Basically, it scans any new program or file before it’s opened and checks if it is a known malware or if it behaves like one. Reactive scanning is the bread and butter of an antivirus.

How does antivirus software work? Things you should know about AV before getting one Virus scanner and script blocking It minimizes the times you have to enter damage control mode to clean up the mess caused by a successful malware attack.īefore you proceed in your journey to find your dream security software, let’s see how exactly an antivirus works. The definition of antivirus software programs goes something like this: A piece of software designed blocks out viruses and other malware from entering your device and compromising your personal data or the hardware itself.Ī good antivirus is a must-have.
