What is the purpose of antivirus software?

• A. To encrypt sensitive data on a computer
• B. To detect and remove malware from computers
• C. To optimize system performance
• D. To manage user permissions

Answer: (B)

Antivirus software is designed primarily to detect, prevent, and remove malware, which includes viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and other malicious software. The core functionality of antivirus programs involves scanning files and applications on a computer to identify any known threats based on a database of malware signatures. When a threat is detected, the software can quarantine the infected file, delete it, or repair it, thus ensuring that the computer remains safe and operates smoothly.

While other software tools may focus on tasks like encryption, performance optimization, or user permissions management, these functions do not align with the main purpose of antivirus software. Encryption tools are meant to protect sensitive data by converting it into a secure format. System optimization software enhances performance by managing resources and processes. User permissions management helps control who has access to certain files or applications. Therefore, the specific purpose of antivirus software as a protective measure against malware is why it is the correct answer.