Guide to Antivirus & Antimalware for CompTIA Network+

What is Antivirus & Antimalware?
Antivirus and antimalware are software programs designed to prevent, detect, and remove malicious software, known as malware. These include viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware.

Why is it important?
Antivirus and antimalware are essential for network security. They protect computers and networks from threats that can steal sensitive data, cause damage to software or hardware, and disrupt network operations.

How does it work?
Antivirus and antimalware programs work by scanning files and monitoring the behavior of programs. They match patterns in the code with known malware signatures, and can also use heuristic analysis to identify new threats. If malware is detected, the program can quarantine or delete it.

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Antivirus and Antimalware
1. Understand the definitions: Know the difference between antivirus and antimalware, and the different types of malware they can detect.
2. Know how they work: Be aware of the methods these programs use to detect and remove malware.
3. Consider real-world applications: Think about how these tools are used in a network security context. This may involve questions about implementing security policies or responding to a security incident.
4. Be aware of different solutions: Different vendors may offer unique features or specialize in certain types of threats. Be prepared to compare and contrast different solutions.