What is the primary purpose of an antivirus program?

The primary purpose of an antivirus program is to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software. This function is crucial in protecting computers and networks from various types of threats such as viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. By actively scanning files and monitoring system behavior, antivirus software can identify potential threats before they can harm the system or compromise data security.

The effectiveness of antivirus programs hinges on their ability to regularly update their definitions of known malware and utilize heuristic analysis to detect previously unknown threats. This ensures that users remain protected against the latest malware that may not yet be widely recognized.

Detection generally involves scanning files and applications for known virus signatures or behaviors related to malicious activity, while prevention focuses on stopping malware from executing in the first place. Removal encompasses cleaning infected files and restoring system integrity, making it a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. Overall, the role of antivirus software is critical in maintaining system health and protecting sensitive information from cyber threats.