What is the role of antivirus software?

Antivirus software plays a crucial role in maintaining the security and health of computers and networks by detecting, preventing, and removing malicious software, commonly referred to as malware. This includes a wide range of harmful programs such as viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, and ransomware that can hinder a system's performance, steal sensitive information, and result in data loss or theft.

The primary function of antivirus software is to monitor system activities in real-time and perform scans to identify any malicious software that may already be present. It utilizes heuristic analysis and signature databases to recognize known threats and suspicious behaviors, enabling users to take corrective actions before significant damage occurs.

By actively engaging in these protective measures, antivirus software helps ensure the integrity of computer systems and the security of personal and organizational data. This role is distinct and separate from other applications that might focus on backup, design enhancement, or network analysis.