Antivirus software is one of the first lines of defence against cyber threats, protecting your computer and data from viruses, malware, ransomware, and other online dangers. However, simply installing antivirus for business isn’t enough to ensure complete security. Regular updates are essential to maintain its effectiveness and protect against evolving threats. In this article, we’ll explore how often you should update your antivirus software and why keeping it up to date is important for safeguarding your devices.
Automatic updates – Let the software do the work:
Most modern antivirus software comes with an automatic update feature, which ensures that your software is regularly updated without manual intervention. These updates are important because they include the latest virus definitions, bug fixes, and security patches. Antivirus vendors continuously monitor emerging threats and release updates to counteract them. Enabling automatic updates is one of the easiest and most effective ways to ensure that your antivirus software is always up to date and prepared for new types of cyberattacks.
Check for updates daily:
Although automatic updates are convenient, it’s still a good idea to check for updates manually on a daily or weekly basis to ensure your antivirus software is running the latest version. Some software may miss a scheduled update due to system issues or internet connectivity problems. By checking regularly, you ensure that your system is protected from the newest threats, especially after high-profile attacks or security vulnerabilities are reported in the media.
Major software updates – Whenever new versions are released:
Along with frequent virus definition updates, antivirus software providers release major updates or new versions that introduce significant improvements to the software’s functionality, features, and performance. These updates may include improved threat detection capabilities, improved scanning speeds, and more effective protection measures. It’s essential to install these major updates as soon as they are released to take advantage of the newest and most advanced security features.
Update during periods of increased threat activity:
Cyber threats are not static; they evolve constantly. During periods of heightened cybercriminal activity, such as the launch of a new virus or ransomware strain, it’s important to ensure your antivirus software is fully updated. Hackers frequently exploit vulnerabilities in software to launch attacks, and antivirus providers release rapid updates to counter these threats. If you’re aware of an active security breach or a surge in cyberattacks, ensure your antivirus software is up to date.
