What is Antimalware?
An antimalware is a software program designed to enhance computer security by identifying, preventing, and eliminating malicious programs—the software targets malware such as worms, viruses, Trojan horses, spyware, and adware. The antimalware scans computer systems to detect any malicious program that manages to infiltrate networks. Many IT experts regard these software programs as one of the best security tools to enhance computer security and protect personal information.
Key Takeaways
- An antimalware is a software program designed to enhance computer security by identifying, preventing and eliminating malicious programs.
- The security protects against advanced malicious threats, while antivirus focuses on the traditional, more conventional threats.
- This software program contains advanced sandboxing and malware protection technology.
- The program works using three techniques, namely; Behavior monitoring, sandboxing and malware removal, making antivirus an integral component of information security.
- The top 6 best antimalware software are; Norton 360, Avast, Kaspersky, Bitdefender, Malwarebytes
Features of Antimalware
Now that we understand what antimalware is, let us consider its key features. The software program contains advanced sandboxing and malware protection technology. Features vary depending on the software. For example, Comodo, an antimalware software, integrates BOClean Antimalware Protection Software. This advanced security feature destroys malicious malware programs immediately upon entry. Another antimalware software, Trend Micro, incorporates sandbox technology allowing the program to analyze suspicious files. Meanwhile, Kaspersky adapts the user’s browsing habits to keep them protected by employing a Security Cloud. Other examples of antimalware software contain anti-ransomware and anti-phishing features.
How does Antimalware Work?
Essentially, an antimalware program works using three distinct techniques.
1.    Behavior Monitoring
Antimalware programs employ behavior monitoring as a technique for identifying the character and behavior of malware. This means that the security program does not compare the suspicious program/software/file to any known threat. If the identified program exhibits questionable character or behavior, it is flagged as a threat. This technique is frequently used to monitor suspicious activity, thus simplifying the malware detection process. As such, malware is identified based on its behavior on the computer.
2.    Sandboxing
Sandboxing is an efficient technique when it comes to isolating suspicious files—the antimalware quarantines suspicious files in a sandbox to allow for further analysis. Subsequently, threats are instantly eliminated while legitimate files are allowed, albeit with constant monitoring. Sandboxing is an excellent method for preventing malware infection. By immediately separating suspicious files from legitimate applications and programs, the antimalware avert damage to computer systems.
3.    Malware Removal
The last strategy employed by the antimalware program once a suspicious file has been identified is complete removal. This step ensures the file or program does not execute and infect the computer. If a malicious program reaches the computer, this technique allows the antimalware to prevent it from installing. Malware removal is completed within seconds, illustrating just how fact this security program works. Once the malware is eliminated from the system, the user is confident that their computer and personal information are secure.
Why You Need an Antimalware
Users can accrue many benefits from an antimalware program, especially given the increased prevalence of cyber threats. Today, keeping personal and organizational computers safe from malicious programs has become a matter of increased priority. In this context, antimalware programs have become an integral component of information security.
The following are some of the ways you can benefit from this security program:
- Antimalware programs protect computers from hackers who take advantage of vulnerabilities to gain access through malware. Installing this program guarantees safe web browsing.
- When a cybercriminal gains access to your computer, they may compromise personal information. With antimalware software, privacy is protected as it prevents malicious software from stealing sensitive information.
- Removing malware and viruses from the computer protects sensitive data.
- Antimalware ensures software is updated by frequently reminding you when updates are available.
- The security program also enhances computer performance by keeping your computer free from junk. The program notifies users of useless files stored on the computer and consuming memory.
Markedly, installing a malware security program is recommended because hackers and cybercriminals are highly prevalent these days. One may never know when these malicious individuals will target your computer. In such a case, they may steal your personal information or infect the computer with viruses, malware without your knowledge. Without a malware program, these viruses and malware can remain undetected, resulting in considerable damage to the computer system. Ensure your computer is not vulnerable by installing antimalware, designed to protect at all times.
The primary purpose of an antimalware program is to detect and remove malicious malware from the system. It is important to note that despite similarities with antivirus, malware programs are different. An antimalware encompasses advanced features making it effective against threats that antivirus cannot prevent
Difference between Antivirus and Antimalware
While a virus is a type of malware, not all types of malware are viruses. Before advancements in information and AI technology, viruses were simple programs. Today, threats have advanced, resulting in expanded threat detection capabilities. Indeed, antivirus and antimalware programs complement each other and work together to maximize device security. However, antimalware is progressive and focuses on more advanced software threats. Nonetheless, upgraded antivirus programs have features that protect against a wide variety of modern malware.
The table below highlights specific differences between the two.Â
 Antivirus
- Protects against viruses
- Signature-based detection
- Stops malicious scripts from executing
- Can only detect and prevent threats it has encountered before|Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â . Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
Antimalware
- Protects against malware
- Heuristic-based detection
- Proactive detection and removal of suspicious activity
- Can identify and prevent prevalent and emerging threats
Best Antimalware Software
Now that you understand what an antimalware is, its features, how it works and its benefits, you may be asking which are the best antimalware programs to install. Below is a list of the top 6 best software to try today:
- Norton 360
- Avast
- Kaspersky
- Bitdefender
- Malwarebytes