Virus, Spyware and Malware protection software is a level of Internet security that protects your servers and PC’s from viruses and spyware. With this level of protection, you can create user specified rules to protect your systems from outside threats.
What Is The Difference Between Virus & Spyware Protection?
To understand the difference between virus and spam protection you need to understand the difference between what a virus is and what spyware is.
A virus is a piece of code designed to replicate itself as many times as possible, spreading from your computer to any other computers connected to it . It is designed to infect and cause harm to your computer without your permission or knowledge.
Spyware is a computer program that imbeds itself into your operating systems. The purpose of many spyware programs is to track your internet habits and bombard you with unwanted solicitations and advertisements.
As you can see viruses and spyware are two different woes for PC users each requires a separate software program to combat it.
Firewalls: A firewall is a software program or hardware device that filters the information coming through the Internet connection into your private network or computer system. Firewalls are customizable, you can add and remove filters to limit or block activity from or to certain websites at any time. Firewalls can also extend security to remote networks/offices.
Do I need a hardware firewall if I have a software firewall?
Many PC’s and servers have built in software firewalls; once the attacker hits your software firewall they are already knocking on the door of your PC, a hardware firewall is one step removed (almost like a security screen door and then your front door).
For companies with multiple PC’s and/or servers, a hardware firewall is the best option. It will allow you to set global policies to protect all machines and can be monitored and managed from one centralized location versus monitoring and managing each individual PC/server and firewall in your facility.
Which Brand Should You Pick?
There are several different brands of firewalls the most common are CISCO, Watchguard Sonicwall, & Linksys.
Each brand offers similar protection and has the ability to add service features such monitoring attacks, email alerts and report creation.
If you need assistance with choosing the rightr type of virus and spyware protection for your company, contact MTI today.
