ICT 0417 - Networks and the Effects of Using Them

Objective: Know and understand the use of anti-malware and anti-virus software

This section explores the importance of anti-malware and anti-virus software in protecting computer systems from threats encountered when using networks. We will cover what these tools do, how they work, and why they are essential for safe computing.

What is Malware?

Malware is a broad term for malicious software designed to harm or exploit computer systems. Examples include viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware.

• Viruses: Attach themselves to other programs and spread when those programs are executed.
• Worms: Self-replicating malware that spreads across networks without needing to attach to other files.
• Trojans: Disguise themselves as legitimate software to trick users into installing them.
• Ransomware: Encrypts a victim's files and demands a ransom payment for their decryption.
• Spyware: Collects information about a user's activities without their knowledge.

What is Anti-Virus Software?

Anti-virus software is a type of software designed to detect, prevent, and remove malware from computer systems. It works by scanning files, programs, and system memory for known malware signatures and suspicious behavior.

What is Anti-Malware Software?

Anti-malware software is a broader category than anti-virus software. It includes anti-virus, but also incorporates other tools to detect and remove various types of malware, such as spyware, adware, and rootkits.

How Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware Software Work

These programs utilize several techniques:

• Signature Scanning: Compares files against a database of known malware signatures.
• Heuristic Analysis: Analyzes the behavior of programs to identify suspicious actions that might indicate malware.
• Real-time Scanning: Continuously monitors files and programs for malicious activity.
• Regular Updates: Receives updates to its signature database to protect against new threats.

Benefits of Using Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware Software

1. Protection against malware infections.
2. Prevention of data loss.
3. Protection of system performance.
4. Prevention of identity theft.
5. Ensuring safe browsing and downloading.

Types of Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware Software

Software Type	Description	Example
Standalone Anti-Virus	A program installed on a single computer.	Norton, McAfee, Avast
Internet Security Suites	Bundles anti-virus with other security features like firewalls and spam filters.	Bitdefender Total Security, Kaspersky Total Security
Cloud-based Anti-Virus	Relies on cloud servers for scanning and threat detection.	McAfee Cloud Security, ESET Online Anti-Virus

Importance of Keeping Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware Software Updated

New malware is constantly being created. Regular updates to the software's signature database are crucial to ensure it can detect and remove the latest threats. Automatic updates are highly recommended.

Conclusion

Anti-malware and anti-virus software are essential tools for protecting computer systems when using networks. Understanding how they work and keeping them updated is a fundamental aspect of safe computing practices.