Virus scanners are programs that identify and remove malware such as computer viruses, worms and Trojans. Virus scanners are also referred to as antivirus programs, antivirus programs, antivirus programs, among others.
First of all: There is a variety of virus scanners. Not every virus scanner has all the features presented here.
Basically, a virus scanner checks your computer or network for signs of malware.
Some virus scanners offer additional features such as a firewall .
There are free virus scanners. Some of these are programs from providers who offer a more convenient program version for sale.
Ordinary virus scanners can only identify known malware. This is analyzed for its identification features (“signature”) across manufacturers. Antivirus software with artificial intelligence is also able to identify variations of known malware. In most cases, this is supplemented by monitoring by IT security experts (endpoint detection and response). Your virus scanner then receives this information via updates and now compares it with the system it has checked.
The terms virus scanner, antivirus program, etc. are no longer quite correct. They became established in a time when most malware was “only” computer viruses. Today, the more dangerous Trojans, worms, etc. are much more widespread – and are also taken into account by virus scanners.
Depending on how your virus scanner is set, you won’t encounter it at all. For example, if your virus scanner receives its updates automatically, checks your system in real time and no warning messages interrupt your work. But you can, may and should also actively use an inconspicuous virus scanner. For example, to scan an email that seems suspicious to you and its attachment. Or to quickly check a customer’s USB stick before copying data to it.
