Choosing Antivirus Software? First, Understand What You Need

Summary: This article explores the current need for antivirus protection and features to consider when choosing antivirus software. Cybercrime methods evolve along with technology, and antivirus software must keep pace with these changes.

In today’s connected world, the question is not, “Do I need antivirus software?” but rather, “Do I have the right antivirus software?” Computer viruses have been around for decades, and new ones are created and launched daily. However, powerful antivirus software has made strides in staying in step with new threats and updating new virus definitions regularly. But there are so many choices of antivirus software available.

Multi-Layered Protection

Good antivirus software is not just about viruses. It must include protection against many types of malware and a layer of firewall protection. Recently, VPN protection has become an essential component of antivirus software, protecting users from being monitored or hijacked by bad actors and securing users’ data, location and identity. Here is a list of all the threats to be addressed by antivirus software:

• Virus Infections – Computer viruses were named such because, once executed, they can multiply and spread contagion to other networked devices. Viruses are usually programmed to launch when an unsuspecting user opens an infected file.
• Malicious Adware – Advertisements that appear on your monitor or the web pages you visit can be a lure for a cyberattack. However, whether malicious or not, adware can seriously affect your computer’s performance.
• Trojans – Remember the legend of the wooden horse filled with Greek soldiers to attack ancient Troy? In the cyber world, a trojan is a virus program disguised as trusted software that, once opened, can unleash many different forms of malware.
• Spyware – Spyware does just what the name implies: it spies on you. Spyware programs gather private data about you (including keystrokes you make which may include passwords) and then forward it to malicious cybercriminals. At the very least, spyware can track your shopping habits. At its worst, spyware can steal your identity or empty bank accounts.
• Ransomware – Once ransomware has infected your computer, hackers gain control of your system. They encrypt all your data so it cannot be accessed by you. The cyber thieves then demand a ransom payment (in untraceable cryptocurrency) to get your data back. Depending on the business or personal data breached, owners could be willing to spend a lot of money to decrypt their files. After paying a ransom, you may or may not get data back in a usable format.
• Rootkit Infections – Rootkit malware launches very deadly attacks. Rootkits are particularly dangerous because they “fly under the radar” and can allow hackers to take complete control of computer systems without user knowledge. They can copy files, install software, replace the operating system and carry out many other harmful acts. Often, by the time the infection has come to light, the cybercriminal has already achieved a substantial data breach.
• Worms – Worms are malware that capitalizes on security vulnerabilities in operating systems and software. Also, they can spread and multiply without any action initiated by the user.
• Malicious Website Attacks – Good antivirus software should include web protections that alert users before visiting malicious websites. Stopping users from accessing these sites can block the threat before your computer system is attacked.
• Network Attacks – Good protection must include the detection of outside threats. A strong firewall can help deflect attacks and alert users to threats initiated by your computer system. Network attacks are particularly pervasive because they can infect any device connected to your network and spread system-wide to your contacts and out in the connected universe.

Do Apple Products Need Virus Protection?

In the past, when fewer users and businesses used Apple devices, hackers did not focus on them. However, those days are long gone. If any device is connected to the internet, it can be infected by viruses and will continue to be a target for cybercriminals. As with all Mac products, only compatible antivirus software can be used. So, yes, Apple products do need virus protection. When choosing antivirus for Apple products, verify that it is compatible.

Antivirus for Business

A business cannot afford a breach of its hard-earned valuable data. Good virus protection is vital to keeping your SMB productive. Viruses can halt network function or slow it down. Cyberattacks can takes weeks or months to rectify. Choosing inadequate antivirus protection can lead to a costly cyberattack that can bankrupt a business. Keep in mind that 60% of SMBs close their doors within six months after an attack.

Reliable Protection

Reliability is crucial for any comprehensive antivirus protection. Virus definitions should automatically update, and users should be able to count on the protection operating 24/7. In addition, antivirus business software should not conflict with any functions or programs on your system or slow down any user productivity. Also, complete scans should be automated to run at scheduled intervals.

User Friendliness

Ideally, the antivirus platform should be easy to navigate and be used by novices and IT experts alike. The functional dashboard for the platform should be easy to read, with prominent buttons related to its operation. It should function as well on a desktop computer as on a tablet or laptop.

In your search for robust antivirus protection, you will find the pros and cons of each product. It is up to you to determine the most comprehensive and cost-effective protection for you or your business. When in doubt, contact IT experts who can help you make the right choices to maintain a secure network.

Next Generation Antivirus Software

Large corporations have teams of full-time IT employees monitoring their network around the clock, investigating changes or unusual activity that could indicate a cyberattack. Small and midsized businesses lack the budget for this level of network protection. However, there is a newer affordable antivirus and monitoring option designed for SMBs. Antivirus software that includes live security operations center (SOC) monitoring is now available for small business networks. When the SOC receives an alert of unusual network activity (such as a large data upload on a weekend or overnight), a live human specialist reviews the activity and determines if it warrants further investigation. The SOC will alert your IT security technician for immediate follow-up action. You will not be disturbed by the false alarms or constant alerts that plague some antivirus software. For further information on small business network security, contact your IT maintenance expert.

Do I Need Antivirus Software? Key Takeaways

“Free” antivirus software is not adequate for a business network. Antivirus for business can help avoid costly and disruptive cyberattacks. Like any other software, regular updates and patches are an essential layer in protecting your network and business data. Ask your IT security technician for a recommendation that meets your business needs, and have it installed on your network devices without delay.