What is the main function of antivirus software?

• A. To enhance internet speed
• B. To detect and eliminate malware from a computer
• C. To create backups of data
• D. To secure financial transactions

Answer: (B)

Antivirus software plays a critical role in computer security by primarily focusing on detecting and eliminating malware, which includes viruses, worms, and other malicious programs that can harm a computer system, compromise data, or lead to unauthorized access. This software continuously scans files, programs, and web traffic to identify suspicious activity or known malware signatures. Upon detection, it can either quarantine the harmful files or remove them entirely to protect the user’s system and personal information.

The other options, while associated with computer functions, do not relate to the primary purpose of antivirus software. Enhancing internet speed pertains to tools and technologies designed to optimize network performance, whereas creating backups of data is a practice aimed at data recovery and preservation, not protection from threats. Securing financial transactions often involves encryption and secure payment gateways, which are separate from the core function of antivirus programs.