The Importance of Network Antivirus and How It Works

Network Antivirus

Network antivirus is protective software for network operations. It performs network backup tasks and provides security modules that shield the network from threats such as malware, worms, spyware, trojans and other malicious software. It is not the same as consumer antivirus; however, both aim to protect systems. Here we review how network antivirus works.

How does network antivirus work?

1. The executable file is first received by the antivirus.
2. The file is scanned to determine whether it is malicious or clean.
3. If the file is malicious, it is moved to a blacklist for required actions.
4. If clean, it is sent to prevention/detection systems.
5. If no suspicious signs are found, the file is made available to the user.

Sometimes the file contains malicious code. In such cases defensive mechanisms activate, sending the suspicious file to a sandbox for further analysis. The network administrator can review it in the network support and hardware services, and if deemed safe, it can be removed from the sandbox and added to the whitelist. If suspicious, it is sent to the antivirus vendor for a deeper check. After the vendor's review, the file can be whitelisted or blacklisted.

Network antivirus maintains a strong database of malware, trojans, worms, and other threats, enabling quick detection when similar files appear. The database is continually updated via network support to improve future detections.

Types of network antivirus

There are several notable network antivirus options, including:

• ESET PROTECT Entry with ESET PROTECT Cloud
• CrowdStrike Falcon Pro
• Cybereason Enterprise
• Avast Business Antivirus Pro Plus
• Cisco Secure Endpoint Essentials
• Elastic Security
• Avira AV-Comparatives Awards 2020
• Malwarebytes EDR
• BitDefender GravityZone Elite
• Kaspersky Endpoint Security for Business – Select

Each of these solutions can be a good choice for network antivirus. While they offer different features, their goal is to secure the network and they share common functionalities.

What is the difference between network antivirus and consumer antivirus?

All antivirus products come in two versions: network antivirus and consumer antivirus. Consumer antivirus is the software installed on personal computers or laptops for individual protection. Network antivirus provides more features and scale for managing many users and devices. In organizations, network antivirus is widely used for centralized oversight.

Thus, network antivirus differs from consumer antivirus in several ways, including:

• Centralized management-based detection
• High scalability
• Centralized dashboards
• Compatibility with enterprise servers
• Integrated defense mechanisms
• Constant monitoring of network traffic
• Minimal disruption to network users

Importance of antivirus in organizational networks

Organizational networks face large data volumes, diverse devices, and sensitive information, making them vulnerable to cyber threats. Using network antivirus is essential for security and stability. The main reasons are:

1) Prevention of malware intrusion

Malware can enter via malicious emails, unsafe downloads, or infected devices, potentially harming critical data or encrypting it (ransomware).

2) Protection of sensitive data

Organizations store sensitive information such as client data, contracts, and ongoing projects. Breaches can lead to legal and financial consequences.

3) Maintaining stable network performance

Malware can consume server resources and bandwidth, reducing speed and causing outages.

4) Detection and mitigation of new threats

Regular updates enable detection of new and sophisticated threats, crucial for zero-day attacks.

5) Centralized management and prevention of worm propagation

A centralized management panel allows protection of all connected devices and prevents spread of threats.

6) Reducing cyberattack costs

Costs of data recovery, downtime, and financial losses are high; network antivirus is an economical preventive measure.

Key features of network antivirus

Network antivirus tools are designed to protect complex infrastructures and offer advanced management and security features.

1) Real-Time Scanning

• Function - They examine files, applications, and network traffic in real time to stop threats.
• Benefit - Prevent malware execution before damage occurs.
• Application - Protect devices connected to the network from malware.

2) Centralized user and device management

• Function - Allow management and monitoring of all devices via a central console.
• Benefit - Simplify security management in large networks.
• Application - Provide comprehensive security reports and centralized configuration.

3) Firewall support and intrusion prevention

• Function - Combines antivirus with internal firewall to block suspicious traffic.
• Benefit - Prevents intrusions and cyberattacks.
• Application - Protect network from external threats such as unauthorized access.

4) Automatic and rapid updates

• Function - Automatically updates its malware database with the latest information.
• Benefit - Detects new threats and defends against zero-day attacks.
• Application - Increases network security against emerging threats.

Are free antivirus solutions sufficient for organizational networks?

No, free antivirus solutions generally lack centralized management and advanced protection.

How does network antivirus update?

Updates are typically performed automatically via the central server.

What is the best antivirus for small businesses?

Bitdefender GravityZone and Kaspersky are suitable options for small networks.

For assessing the sustainability, security and maintenance of this infrastructure, also consult the network support guide.

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