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How does antivirus software work?

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Quick answer

Antivirus software works by constantly scanning files and behaviour for threats. It compares files against a database of known malware 'signatures', watches for suspicious actions, and quarantines or deletes anything dangerous — updating its threat list often to catch new attacks.

Step by step

Scans files against a malware signature database.
Watches for suspicious behaviour in real time.
Quarantines or removes detected threats.
Updates frequently to catch new malware.

People also ask

How does antivirus detect viruses?

It matches files to known malware signatures and flags suspicious behaviour that looks like an attack, even from unknown threats.

Do I still need antivirus today?

Modern phones and operating systems have strong built-in protection, but safe habits and regular updates matter just as much.

What is a false positive?

When antivirus flags a safe file as a threat by mistake; you can usually review and restore it from quarantine.

How does antivirus software detect viruses?

By matching files to known malware signatures and flagging suspicious behavior in real time.

What is a malware signature?

A unique digital fingerprint of known malicious code that antivirus tools scan for.

Why must antivirus software update so often?

New malware appears constantly, so its threat database needs frequent updates to stay effective.