Antivirus Firewall Software
Why Every System should have an Antivirus Firewall Software
Viruses, trojans, and other forms of malware have been infecting computers and laptops for decades even before the Internet went mainstream. Several companies decided to fight back by developing antivirus solutions that not only attempt to remove the viruses from these files, but also prevent more viruses from entering. These programs do not protect the users from hackers that exploit vulnerabilities very well so these developers made firewall solutions as well.
Still, not everyone was safe since early Windows operating systems never had any built-in security features. Now Windows 7 is here boasting more security features than ever and is being backed up by the OEMs that preinstall more security software and antivirus solutions so people that buy these new modern PCs and laptops won't have to suffer. However, there are still a number of companies that advertise antivirus firewall software. Although the preinstalled software offers some protection, these reasons should still encourage you to get your own antivirus firewall software as soon as you can afford it.
Built-in Security Features have Basic Detection
The Windows Firewall has been existing since the later stages of Windows XP. Although it has been significantly improved to thwart some hacking attempts, the detection is still very basic compared to the firewalls featured in antivirus firewall software. The same can be said with the antivirus solutions that can be downloaded for free. Although these programs run faster, these free programs often have smaller virus definition databases which mean reduced detection accuracy. Some OEMs included popular antivirus firewall software, but they are trial versions so consider an upgrade if you are satisfied with the way it performs.
Improved System Performance and Stability
Free protection applications are usually built to handle a single function. This means that you will usually need a separate antivirus solution and another firewall solution in order to be fully protected. This may have an impact on the performance since two separate programs are running. With the lack of integration, installing some combinations of programs may lead to crashing. Users go around this by installing a good free antivirus scanner and not bothering to install a firewall since there is one included in the OS. If you go for good antivirus firewall software, you will notice some minor performance improvements since the same engine runs both the firewall and the antivirus. You can then uninstall any other 3rd party antivirus and firewall applications so you have one solid program protecting your computer and virus scanner's components.
Lasting Protection
Most of these antivirus firewall software are commercial products so you will have to pay for a subscription to keep on getting the latest virus definitions. Those that stick to freeware may seem to have an advantage of getting free updates, but only paid subscriptions give lasting protection because commercial products are much better in identifying viruses, blocking hacking attempts, and ignoring false positives. Even if your subscription expires, you won't be able to update, but you will still have full protection against the viruses found in the definitions list retrieved from your last update. While it is important to renew anyway, antivirus firewall software have the upper hand when it comes to overall protection and performance.
