Ever since computers became an important piece of technology in every home and workplace, viruses have also become common. Computer viruses, which are also known as malware, can infect your computer when you open an email or click on an internet ad. And once you get a virus, it can cause serious problems.
Today, there are more than 27 million different types of malware floating around online¹. With 74,000 new viruses and malware strains taking over computers every day, the problem is only getting worse.
Antivirus Software Protects Your Computer From Different Viruses and Risks
An antivirus software is designed to keep your computer safe from the many viruses created by hackers and online criminals looking to access your information. These viruses go by many names, like worms, malware, and hijackers. But they all do the same thing: infect some aspect of your computer, cause damage, and leave you in trouble.
Fortunately, today’s antivirus software is well-equipped to combat every possible kind of malware. In fact, they’re designed to protect against the most common types of viruses. You can even choose a specific antivirus software if you’re worried you’re at risk of getting a particular type of malware.
The most common type of antivirus software keeps you and your computer protected by running searches on your computer for malware. When the software finds any malware, it removes it before it can cause damage.
The following are a few other types of antivirus software that can be beneficial.
Standalone Antivirus Software
This type of antivirus software can detect and remove viruses and malware from any tech device. It can run in the background of your computer, or you can manually run a scan if your computer is already infected with a virus.
Security Software Suites
This type of antivirus program is all-inclusive. It includes a traditional antivirus program, which can detect and remove malware. But this software also includes additional levels of protection. It can fight malicious software, protect your computer and its files 24/7, and may even include additional packages like anti-spyware, a firewall, and parental controls.
Cloud-Based Antivirus Software
The newest type of antivirus software, cloud-based antivirus programs work within the cloud rather than on your specific computer. This software runs regular scans to detect compromised files. And because it’s cloud-based, it gets regular timely updates to ensure it can fight any new malware.
Antivirus Software Doesn’t Have to Cost a Lot
In the past, antivirus software was a burden – it was expensive. And adding antivirus software to your computer could leave you paying hundreds of dollars each year.
However, today’s antivirus software options are much more affordable. With plenty of options to suit any kind of tech gadget and any need, you can also customize the level of protection you’d like to pay for.
CostHelper² reports that basic virus protection for your home computer costs between $30 and $50. This will keep you covered against viruses, offer firewall protection, and even protect you when you’re browsing the internet.
If you’re looking for a more advanced antivirus software that comes with additional features like diagnosing and repairing problems, added internet security, file encryption, and anti-spam filters, CostHelper³ notes that you can expect to pay between $40 and $80. The benefit of these software options is they’re often updated more regularly, which can help fight newer viruses and malware.
You can also find antivirus software for free. Some companies, like Panda Cloud and AVG⁵, offer free downloads of antivirus software. This allows you to protect your computer and its information without spending a cent.
Antivirus software doesn’t have to break the bank – in fact, it can be surprisingly budget-friendly. Spending just $30, or even nothing at all for a free download, can offer peace of mind every time you’re online.
All Computers Need Antivirus Software
If you’re still on the fence about antivirus software, it’s likely because you’ve heard that not all computers or internet-enabled devices need it. And while this was true in decades past, it isn’t the case today. Now, all computers – and even smartphones and tablets – need some level of antivirus software.
Windows computers are the most at-risk, simply because the operating system is so popular that it’s commonly targeted by hackers and online criminals⁴. But Apple’s macOS is becoming equally targeted. While Apple computers weren’t at-risk in years past, today’s viruses and malware can attack macOS just like any other computer.
And smartphones are even at risk of developing malware. Both Android and iOS devices can contract dangerous malware, and that means it’s important to protect your phone with antivirus software too.
With technology becoming even more central to our daily lives each year, antivirus software is only becoming more important. Imagine what could happen if a virus takes hold of your computer – and all of the information you have stored there. The results could be catastrophic.
But you don’t have to worry if you install an antivirus software on your computer, smartphone, or other tech gadgets. Everyone needs antivirus software today, and if you don’t have it, you need to download it.
You can easily find antivirus software online. The internet makes it simple to search for a solution that meets your specific needs. After doing a little research and comparison, you can instantly start protecting your computer.