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Virus Scanner | What is a Virus Scanner? - (BCA / B.Tech)

What is a Virus Scanner?

A virus scanner is a software program whose main function is to detect, remove, or limit the activities of hidden viruses, malware, spyware, and other harmful programs on computers and other devices.
It is an important security tool for protecting a computer from viruses and other cyber threats. A virus scanner continuously monitors the files and processes running on your computer or device to ensure that there is no unwanted or suspicious activity.
A virus scanner is an extremely important tool for computer and device security. It not only detects threats but also helps in keeping your device safe by removing them. Choosing the right virus scanner and using it regularly is essential for protection against cyber threats.

How Does a Virus Scanner Work?

A virus scanner primarily works in two ways:

Signature-based Scanning: Signature-based scanning is the oldest and most common method, where the virus scanner checks files by matching them against a database of known viruses and malware. Whenever a virus scanner encounters a new file, it compares the file's structure or signature with its database. If the file's signature matches any virus signature stored in the database, the virus scanner identifies it and issues a warning.
Heuristic Analysis: During this type of scanning, the virus scanner analyzes the behavioral activities of files and programs. The main purpose of heuristic scanning is to detect new and unknown threats that have not yet been added to the virus database. This technique attempts to identify potential threats by analyzing the file's behavior. For example, if a program performs unusual activities like modifying system files without permission, the virus scanner might flag it as a potential threat.

Types of Virus Scanners:

There are different types of virus scanners, used according to various needs. The main types of virus scanners are listed below:

On-demand Scanner: This virus scanner is activated only when the user runs it manually. The user can use it to scan a specific file, folder, or the entire system. It is necessary to run this type of scanner regularly to detect any potential threats in the system in a timely manner.
On-access Scanner: This type of virus scanner continuously runs in the background and immediately scans every new file, email, or downloaded file. It is also called a real-time scanner. As soon as a file is accessed, the scanner immediately scans it and if it finds any virus or malware, it removes or blocks it.
Cloud-based Scanner: This type of scanner uses cloud services for its virus database and scanning process instead of using resources on the local device. This puts less load on the system and makes scanning faster. Also, cloud-based scanners can update their virus databases instantly, allowing them to detect new threats quickly.
Specialized Scanner: Some virus scanners are designed to find and remove specific types of malware or viruses. For example, rootkit scanners are used only to detect rootkit malware, while spyware scanners are designed only for spyware.

Main Functions of a Virus Scanner:

Virus scanners not only detect threats but also provide various security measures against them. Some of their main functions are as follows:

Scanning and Detection: The main function of a virus scanner is to scan the computer's files, folders, and applications to detect any potential viruses, malware, or spyware. This scanning can be manual or automatic.
Isolating Infected Files: When a virus scanner detects an infected file, it isolates that file from the system and quarantines it. Quarantined files are disabled so they cannot cause further damage to the computer.
Removing Viruses: When a virus scanner detects an infected file or program, it attempts to completely remove or repair it. If repair is not possible, the file is completely removed from the system.
Real-time Protection: A real-time scanner continuously monitors every file or process on the system and immediately blocks any threat as it arises. This is an extremely important feature that helps keep users safe at all times.
System Performance Protection: A virus scanner not only detects threats but also works to maintain system performance. It ensures that no virus or malware can affect the system's speed or slow it down.

Benefits of Using a Virus Scanner:

Data Security: A virus scanner helps in keeping your sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, and other personal data safe.
Real-time Security: It monitors your computer at all times and immediately stops any new virus or malware as it appears.
Improved System Performance: A virus scanner protects your computer from malware, which can slow down your system or cause it to crash.
Automatic Updates: Most virus scanners regularly update their virus databases so they can detect and combat new and more dangerous viruses.
Custom Scanning: Virus scanners give you the flexibility to choose which parts you want to scan, such as a specific folder or drive.

Drawbacks of a Virus Scanner:

Difficulty in Detecting New Viruses: If the virus scanner's database is not updated, it may be unable to detect new viruses and malware.
Not All Threats are Detected: Virus scanners sometimes fail to detect threats that use advanced techniques or hacking tools.
System Load: Some virus scanners put a heavy load on the system during scanning, which can slow down the system's speed.
False Positives: Sometimes a virus scanner may identify a safe file as a virus, which is called a false positive. This can be inconvenient for the user.

Tips for Choosing a Virus Scanner:

Updated Database: Always choose a virus scanner whose database is regularly updated so that it is capable of detecting new threats.
Real-time Protection: Prioritize scanners with a real-time protection feature to ensure your security at all times.
Ease of Use: The virus scanner should be easy to install and use. It should have a smooth and user-friendly interface.
Low System Load: The virus scanner should not affect the system's speed during scanning and should put a low load on the system.
Customer Support: The virus scanner should come with good customer support and a help desk service so that you can get immediate assistance in case of any problem.

Virus Scanner | What is a Virus Scanner?

What is a Virus Scanner?

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