First, the good news.
Antivirus software searches your hard drive and external devices for potential threats. The best software will then prevent and remove harmful malware from your computer.
In general, antivirus software uses two different approaches to detect threats.
First, is the Dictionary Approach. The software checks a file and refers to a dictionary (or definition) of known viruses. If there is a match, the file gets deleted, quarantined or repaired.
Second, is the Suspicious Behavior Approach. The software monitors all programs and flags suspicious behavior. For example, attempts to change settings or write to a certain directory.
Antivirus programs are essential for all computers, but the choice of which one to use is not always an easy one.
Now the Bad News
Unfortunately, not all antivirus software is created equal or is suitable for every situation. How can you evaluate the many options out there and determine which software is right for you?
There are many ways to evaluate and rate antivirus software. We recommend considering at least three important factors:
- Protection – does it protect your computer? Specifically, how quickly (and thoroughly) does the company behind the software create and add definitions as new threats are identified?
- Performance – how does running the antivirus software affect speed, performance and productivity? For example, is the computer unusable or lag while the software is running?
- Usability – how much user interaction does the software need? The more interaction required, the more likely it is that a user will accidently poke holes in the protection.
Keep in mind too, that using wireless devices to connect to a network creates many potential entry points for attack.
At Future Link IT, we recommend an endpoint security approach for our clients. This requires that your laptops, phones and other devices become part of your entire security framework and protocol.
And The Winner Is …
For its combination of protection, performance, usability and endpoint security options, we like the highly-rated, award-winning Bitdefender range of products.
Bitdefender Antivirus Plus 2017, for example, protects against viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, zero-day exploits, rootkits and spyware. It does so without significantly affecting performance or speed.
Add in automatic updates, active threat control and advanced AI and you have a winning package.
Now that you know the realities of antivirus software, it’s time to give us a call. Let’s discuss your computer and network security needs and how we can work together to protect your business.