By using a database of virus signatures, or patterns that are unique segments of malware code, anti-virus software helps organizations and individuals block and quarantine malware before it can infect files and systems. Over time, anti-virus software has evolved from being purely signature-based to more dynamic and behavioral-based, Lifewire notes. Read below to learn more about which anti-virus software is best for your nonprofit.
Which Virus Protection Software Should My Nonprofit Purchase?
Nonprofits have many options when purchasing anti-virus solutions, and will benefit most by deploying anti-virus software that meets their needs in terms of protection, scale and cost. Businesses can work with solutions providers like Tech Impact to conduct security assessments that may reveal vulnerabilities that can be patched with anti-virus software and other protections.
As Lifewire notes, a nonprofits should ensure that any anti-virus solution it purchases has received certification from the three major certification authorities — Checkmark, ICSALabs, and VB100 — and that it performed well on the tests conducted by AV-Test.org.
There are many options for businesses, including both free and paid anti-virus services. The range of providers includes Avast, AVG, BullGuard, Bitdefender, ESET, F-Secure, G Data, Kaspersky, McAfee, Panda, Sophos, Symantec and Trend Micro. Different sites offer reviews on all of these programs, but which one to pick ultimately comes down to the needs of the organization.
Why Are Virus Protection Programs Not Enough?
As Computerworld notes, for many years anti-virus providers were able to update their malware signature databases faster than such malware could spread across the internet.
Yet times have changed, and malware can spread faster than ever before, and before anti-virus providers can even detect it.
Additionally, “virus authors have learned to produce variants, which are versions of their illicit programs that function the same way, but have deliberate changes in their signature to evade anti-virus programs,” Computerworld notes. “Because much of our malware is now distributed in kit form, even a novice can produce a malware variant and get it out on the internet very quickly.”
What Security Measures Can Nonprofits Deploy Besides Virus Protection Software?
Beyond anti-virus programs, there are multiple solutions nonprofits can use to ensure their security. Organizations need to take a layered approach to their security to ensure they cover any gaps. These interventions include firewalls, endpoint security, cloud security and more.
