What is the primary role of antivirus software?

The primary role of antivirus software is to protect systems from malware by detecting and removing it. This includes a range of malicious software threats, such as viruses, worms, Trojan horses, ransomware, and spyware. Antivirus software works by scanning files, monitoring system behavior, and utilizing signature-based detection methods to identify known malware signatures. It also adapts to recognize new threats through heuristics and other techniques aimed at identifying suspicious activity.

This protective function is essential in maintaining the integrity and security of computer systems, preventing data breaches, and ensuring safe usage of technology. By regularly updating its database of malware signatures and employing advanced detection methods, antivirus software serves as a crucial line of defense against various cyber threats, helping to safeguard user data and overall system performance.