In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is a top priority for businesses of all sizes. With the increasing number of cyber-attacks, it’s essential to understand the tools available to protect your systems. Two common terms you might encounter are antivirus and anti-malware software.
Knowing what is the difference between anti-malware and antivirus software is incredibly important. This blog will explore the differences between these two types of software, helping you make an informed decision to safeguard your business.
What is antivirus software?
Antivirus software is designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software, commonly known as viruses. Traditionally, viruses were the main threat to computers, leading to the development of antivirus programs. These programs scan your system for known viruses, using signature-based detection methods to identify and neutralise threats before they can cause damage.
Over time, antivirus software has evolved to include more advanced features. Modern antivirus programs now offer real-time protection, scanning files and websites as you interact with them. This approach helps prevent infections rather than just removing them after the fact.
In addition to traditional virus detection, many antivirus programs now incorporate features like email scanning, web protection, and firewall capabilities. This integration enhances the overall security of your business by offering a multi-layered approach to defence. Despite these advancements, antivirus software is often still associated with legacy threats, meaning it might not fully protect against more recent forms of malware.
For instance, the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack had a significant impact on the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Despite having antivirus systems in place, the NHS was severely affected when the ransomware exploited a vulnerability in older Windows systems. The attack led to the cancellation of thousands of appointments, the shutdown of critical services, and an estimated cost of £92 million to the NHS. This case shows the limitations of relying solely on antivirus software to protect against advanced threats.
What is anti-malware software?
Anti-malware software is a broader term that encompasses a range of tools designed to combat different types of malicious software, or malware. While viruses are a form of malware, they represent just one category. Malware includes other threats such as spyware, ransomware, and Trojans, which can have devastating effects on your business if left unchecked.
Anti-malware tools are specifically designed to address a cyber-attack. They often use heuristic analysis, behavioural detection, and even machine learning to identify new or unknown malware that traditional antivirus programs might miss. By focusing on a wider range of threats, anti-malware software provides a more comprehensive layer of protection for your systems.
Many anti-malware solutions now include features like sandboxing. Sandboxing is when suspicious files are isolated and tested in a controlled environment to determine their safety before they are allowed to interact with your system. This proactive approach helps to disarm IoT threats and protect against zero-day vulnerabilities, which are increasingly common in today’s cybersecurity landscape.
The 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack is also a notable example of the importance of anti-malware software. This global cyber-attack affected over 200,000 computers in 150 countries, encrypting files and demanding ransom payments in Bitcoin. The attack was particularly devastating for organisations that relied solely on traditional antivirus software, which was not equipped to handle the rapidly spreading ransomware. Anti-malware tools provided critical defence mechanisms that helped many organisations contain and mitigate the damage.
What’s the difference between antivirus and anti-malware?
If you’re wondering is anti-spyware and antivirus the same, the answer is no! The main difference between antivirus and anti-malware software lies in the scope and methods of detection. Antivirus software typically targets known threats, relying on signature-based detection to identify and eliminate viruses. In contrast, anti-malware software covers a broader spectrum of threats, including new and emerging forms of malware, using more sophisticated detection techniques.
While antivirus software is effective at dealing with traditional threats, it may not be sufficient on its own in today’s complex threat landscape. Anti-malware software, with its ability to detect and disarm IoT threats and other advanced forms of malware, offers an additional layer of security. This distinction is crucial for businesses looking to protect their IoT devices and maintain compliance with regulations such as the Cyber Resilience Act.
For example, a recent report highlighted that while antivirus software is adept at identifying known threats, anti-malware solutions are better equipped to handle polymorphic malware—malicious software that constantly changes its code to evade detection. This capability is particularly important for businesses facing sophisticated cyber threats that target their IoT devices and networks.
Which one should I use?
When deciding between antivirus and anti-malware software, the best approach is often to use both. Each type of software has its strengths, and together they provide a more robust defence against cyber threats. For businesses, especially those dealing with IoT devices, a multi-layered security strategy is essential to mitigate the risk of cyber-attacks.
Can you use them both?
Yes, you can and should use both antivirus and anti-malware software in tandem. While antivirus programs are excellent at identifying and removing known threats, anti-malware tools can catch the newer, more sophisticated malware that might slip through the cracks. Using both ensures that your systems are protected on all fronts, reducing the risk of a successful cyber-attack.
Running both types of software concurrently is generally recommended for comprehensive protection. Modern antivirus and anti-malware solutions are typically designed to work together without causing system conflicts. This layered security approach is crucial for ensuring that your business remains resilient against a wide range of cyber threats.
One common strategy employed by businesses is to use antivirus software for real-time protection against known threats while deploying anti-malware solutions for deep system scans and targeted protection against advanced threats. This approach allows for a balanced defence that can adapt to the evolving landscape of cyber threats. For example, a multinational corporation may schedule regular deep scans with anti-malware software to complement the real-time scanning provided by their antivirus solution, thereby covering all potential entry points for malware.
FAQs about antivirus and anti-malware software
Is anti-spyware safe?
Yes, anti-spyware software is safe and essential for protecting your computer from spyware. Spyware is a type of malware designed to gather your personal information without your consent. Anti-spyware tools help detect and remove these malicious programs, safeguarding your data and ensuring your privacy.
Why is spyware a concern?
Spyware is a significant concern because it operates in the background, often without the user’s knowledge, to collect sensitive information. This information can include passwords, credit card details, and other personal data, which can then be used for fraudulent activities. The presence of spyware can compromise your business’s security, leading to data breaches and financial losses.
How does spyware get onto my computer?
Spyware can infiltrate your computer through various means, such as malicious email attachments, compromised websites, or bundled software downloads. Once installed, spyware can monitor your activities, steal information, and even slow down your computer’s performance. It’s crucial to have anti-spyware software to detect and remove these threats before they cause harm.
How can I tell if I have any spyware on my computer?
Signs that you may have spyware on your computer include a noticeable slowdown in performance, an increase in pop-up ads, and unexpected changes to your browser settings or homepage. If you suspect spyware, running a full system scan with your anti-malware software can help detect and remove the threat. This will help to restore your computer’s security and performance.