Selecting the Best Antivirus Software

Antivirus software is used to prevent, detect, and remove malicious software (commonly known as malware) from a computer. Malware includes computer viruses, worms, and trojan horses. The best software may also prevent and remove adware, spyware, and other forms of malware.

A variety of strategies are typically employed within the best antivirus software. Signature-based detection involves searching for known malicious patterns in executable code. However, it is possible for a user to be infected with new malware in which no signature exists yet, typically called zero-day threats.

To counter these zero-day threats, heuristics can be used. One type of heuristic approach, generic signatures, can identify new viruses or variants of existing viruses by looking for known malicious code (or slight variations of such code) in files.

The best antivirus software can also predict what a file will do if opened/run by emulating it in a sandbox (test area) and analyzing what it does to see if it performs any malicious actions. If it does, this could mean the file is malicious and the software will quarantine, delete or take some other precautionary action.

It is generally agreed that if you have a Windows-based operating system without antivirus software installed and are connected to the internet, you will most likely be infected in less than 2 hours. When looked at in this way, securing your computer with the best antivirus software becomes a top priority.

How do you select the best antivirus software for your needs?  You start by asking yourself a series of questions.  Do you need antivirus protection on its own or do you need additional functionality? Do you need a firewall? Do you need file encryption? Do you need control over which websites can be viewed (parental control)? Do you use the computer for gaming? What are your system requirements?  How much do you want to spend?  Will you need technical support?

Once you are able to answer these questions, you can begin to research which product will best meet your needs.  Product reviews, internet forums and user statements provide a great starting point. AV-Comparatives, PC Pro, and Consumer Reports are just a few good sites that offer forums and research on the best software currently available.

There are numerous antivirus software products available on the market.  Take the time to choose the best antivirus software that meets your specific needs.