What’re the Differences between Antivirus Software, Antispyware, and Firewalls?

Posted by Gretchen Thomas on August 25, 2020
Cybersecurity

Antivirus Software is also known as anti-malware. Malware is software designed to cause damage to your IT infrastructure (your servers, desktops, laptops, and software apps). So, antivirus software makers are the good guys, and malware makers are the bad guys.

Antivirus (AV) software is designed to prevent, detect, and remove malware that has broken into your system. These AV applications also keep you protected when you’re surfing the net. There are all kinds of hijackers and malicious kits and tools created to take your computer and its components down when you’re on the internet. These superhero AV software packages work to keep your systems safe.

Antispyware is usually included in AV software packages and has been developed to specifically stop spyware. Spyware is a type of malware that attempts to gather info about you and your organization without you knowing it. Cybercriminals can secretly observe your business activities on your devices and the internet. They sell this information and your tracking info to marketers to make a quick buck.

Antispyware, like AV software, detects, prevents, and removes spyware from your devices. The software scans emails, websites, and downloads for any potential threats. It searches for any changes in records and if it finds one, it disables the data and alerts you. It can provide you with all the details about the spyware, which gives you the power to destroy it.

Spyware and malware programmers know their wares are being detected and removed. They are continuously working on evolving their programs to create something that the good-guy software apps will miss.

A firewall is another type of security device. It can be a piece of hardware connected to your system or a software application. It operates as a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic. It blocks unauthorized access to your business’ data by creating a virtual wall between your internal network and the crazy cyber world out there. You can go out into that cyber world, aka the internet, and come back in but the bad stuff out there can’t get through. It’s like airport security, but a firewall tracks traffic going both ways.

A million vendors sell these products. It’s important to shop around for the best. Here at Integrinet IT, we’re professional software vendor shoppers. We buy and install the best for our clients. Give us a call, and we’ll make sure nobody is breaking into your system, hijacking your stuff, or spying on your activities. We will set up a powerful firewall that protects your confidential data, private documents, and secret sauce from cyber crooks.

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