What Are the Different Types of Open Source Antivirus Software?

Open source antivirus software is a form of antivirus protection that is created through the collaboration of a number of programmers and is subject to continued input by those programmers and sometimes even users. Antivirus software of this type can be very effective, since it is possible to tweak the program to better serve emerging needs with relatively little red tape involved. The range of open source applications related to computer security protection include antivirus protection, spyware applications, and malware programs that are both effective and also often free to download and use.

One example of open source antivirus software is virus detection and protection. This type of software is capable of identifying and blocking downloads of viruses and other types of malware when users are visiting web sites. Some even have an email filtering component which will block the download of an attachment if some sort of threat is detected. Most of these types of computer protection can be updated manually or even set to scan for updates on an automated basis, ensuring that the latest protections are always installed on the system.

Spyware protection is another type of open source antivirus software that users can download and install with ease. This type of protection can often also identify and isolate viruses, but mainly works to prevent the download of tracking cookies that could pose a threat to user security. Just as with the virus protection programs, spyware protection can also be used to make a sweep of all the drives on the system, determine if there is some sort of threat, and neutralize it with relative ease.

Malware protection is a third example of open source antivirus software. This particular type of software product focuses on the detection of threats that could not only threaten the security of the user but also the functionality of the computer itself. Malware can steal proprietary data, use resources without the owner’s knowledge or permission, or even lock a system in some cases. Detection of malware before it has a chance to infect a system helps to minimize the risk and keep all private data safe from illegal use.

While some consider open source antivirus software to be inferior to other forms of computer security solutions, the fact is that many of these open source products provide the same range of protections as any of the more expensive options. Evaluating open source security solutions is a great way to save money and still keep the system protected from the various threats found online every day. Many can be downloaded in a short period of time, utilized with ease, and may even use less system resources to do the job than other solutions.