What is Antivirus Software?

Viruses are a specific type of malware that infects a computer, system or network and spreads like a contagion, hence the name. Most modern antivirus solutions protect against many types of malware including viruses, adware, spyware, trojans, and ransomware attacks. Antivirus tools make up one component of the endpoint protection ecosystem. While antivirus covers malware protection, features for detection, remediation, and device governance may not be included. EDR tools typically provide a wider breadth of features for incident detection, malware isolation, and infection remediation. Endpoint management tools will supply additional features such as asset management, system requirements updates, and network monitoring. Endpoint locations and technology infrastructure are key considerations for security software. Antivirus solutions are a necessity, especially with the rise of bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies. BYOD practices provide a wealth of benefits, but they can make it more difficult to close the security loop. Some antivirus apps will only support Windows or Mac devices; others support everything from tablets to smart devices. It’s important to pair your endpoint management policies with security tools that support the range of devices accessing your network. Since some employees are slow to update applications and operating systems, conflicts may arise and force administrators to regulate system requirements. Key Benefits of Antivirus Software Block malware from infecting devices Protect against phishing, spam, and hackers Increase endpoint lifetime Reduce risk of data theft, loss, or corruption Regulate antivirus policies companywide

Why Use Antivirus Software?

Antivirus software is an important component of a well-rounded security software stack and can be a valuable addition to existing software programs. These solutions effectively reduce the presence of malware able to gain access to your company’s sensitive information. Many antivirus vendors even offer free antivirus programs for personal use. Information security — Companies are becoming more vigilant in protecting their sensitive business data. Industries such as financial services and banking are obvious places where it is important to keep data safe. But hackers target all kinds of companies and individuals, as almost all organizations and people have some level of valuable data stored on their networks. Device protection — Endpoints are disparate and plentiful in the modern world. Companies often allow users to access business data and applications on whatever device they have on hand. It’s important, however, to ensure each of those endpoints is secure. Cross-platform availability is important for companies with BYOD practices. But antivirus tools help keep dangerous programs and hackers out of your business network, regardless of the type of device they’re using. Browsing safety — Employees often surf the web and end up on potentially dangerous sites. If your company’s network doesn’t block unapproved sites or employees surf on their own network, it’s fairly likely they’ll end up encountering some kind of malware. Antivirus solutions are useful tools for identifying potentially dangerous material and preventing users from obtaining it. This includes clicking dangerous ads, downloading suspicious files, or getting caught in a phishing incident. All of these user behaviors can end up allowing malware entrance into a network and put business data at risk. Employee unreliability — Like the browser issue, employees aren’t always skilled in best practices for internet security. Many users will download an extension or program simply because a site said they have to; antivirus solutions help make it more difficult, or even impossible, to download a malicious program. These downloads could very easily include malware and wreak havoc on a company’s network. That puts both the individual user’s data at risk. And because of a virus’ ability to replicate and spread, the company’s entire network becomes a target.

What are the Different Kinds of Antivirus Software?

Antivirus — These are the longest-standing software type of the bunch. Viruses are the best-known and debatably the oldest forms of malware. Viruses differentiate themselves through their ability to replicate and spread. They can be attached to files from the internet, suspicious applications, and dangerous websites. Once a virus is downloaded, it can replicate and distribute its copies across computer networks. These viruses can be used for a number of nefarious purposes, such as remote access and data theft. Antivirus solutions identify known variants of viral malware. Many antivirus solutions also cover a number of the following cyberthreats, but they have historically focused on viruses. Anti-malware — Anti-malware solutions will cover most kinds of cyber threats that are delivered in the form of files or applications. There are millions of different malware forms that range from adware to ransomware; anti-malware software aims to prevent all kinds from harming your devices. These dangerous programs can mutate and adapt to slip by traditional firewalls and discover new exploits and zero-day vulnerabilities. As a result, many are synced to threat intelligence networks in addition to malware libraries to identify evolving forms of malware and protect against zero-day attacks. Anti-spyware — Spyware is a common form of malware used to secretly gather sensitive information from their targets. These can be used to track cookies, monitor systems, or harvest identity data. The most common way to infect a device with spyware is through a program called adware. These usually create popups or windows within browsers that trigger downloads when the user attempts to close them. Other forms of spyware include systems monitors, cookie trackers, and trojans, which present themselves as harmless components, but secretly possess spyware within their files. Anti-worm — A computer worm is a malware program that functions similarly to a virus in that it replicates itself and spreads within computer networks. Unlike viruses, worms typically don’t modify or corrupt the target’s files. They’re used for hacking practices such as creating backdoors and botnets, or launching ransomware attacks. Worms are effective ransomware attack tools since they are designed to replicate and spread quickly across large networks. A worm will lock down a network’s endpoints and require payment in return for access to the end user’s files. If they refuse, the virus may destroy or harvest an entire network’s data. Anti-phishing — Phishing is a common practice used to take advantage of human error. Attacks may come in the form of emails, ads, or other means of electronic communication. Phishing content mimics legitimate messages or websites and asks a user to submit credentials or banking information. Many email gateways have filters to prevent phishing content from reaching users. Some antivirus solutions will also identify suspicious websites and alert users if the programs suspects a site may contain phishing content.

Page 3 | Best Antivirus Software: User Reviews from November 2026

BlackFog

Data can’t be stolen if it never leaves. BlackFog prevents data exfiltration from endpoints, stopping sensitive information from flowing to ransomware groups, AI tools, cloud services, and other unauthorized destinations. While most cybersecurity solutions focus on detecting threats, BlackFog focuses on preventing the outcome attackers want most: access to your data. Our endpoint-native platform monitors and controls outbound communications in real time, preventing data loss through ransomware, insider threats, shadow AI, and other exfiltration channels. BlackFog pioneered anti data exfiltration (ADX), a category built around a simple principle: the endpoint is the last place data can be stopped before it’s gone. By operating directly on the device, BlackFog provides visibility and control across browsers, cloud applications, AI tools, encrypted connections, and emerging AI workflows that traditional network-based approaches often miss. Today, organizations use BlackFog to prevent ransomware data theft, govern AI usage, reduce data loss risk, and protect sensitive information wherever users work. Key Capabilities * Anti data exfiltration (ADX) * Ransomware Data Theft Prevention * Shadow AI Discovery and Governance * AI Data Loss Prevention * Insider Threat Protection * Real-Time Outbound Traffic Control * Endpoint Data Protection * Compliance and Privacy Enforcement

Average Rating: 4.8/5.0

Total Reviews: 39

How Do G2 Users Rate BlackFog?

Has the product been a good partner in doing business?: 9.6/10 (Category avg: 8.8/10)
Quality of Support: 9.4/10 (Category avg: 8.6/10)
Ease of Use: 9.2/10 (Category avg: 9.0/10)
AI Text Summarization: 6.7/10 (Category avg: 7.6/10)

Who Is the Company Behind BlackFog?

Seller: BlackFog
Company Website:
Year Founded: 2015
HQ Location: BlackFog Inc. Suite 1400 4 Embarcadero Ctr San Francisco CA 94111, United States
LinkedIn® Page: www.linkedin.com
31 employees on LinkedIn®

Who Uses This Product?

Top Industries: Computer & Network Security, Information Technology and Services
Company Size: 60% Small, 28% Medium

What Do G2 Reviewers Say About BlackFog?

AI-generated summary from verified user reviews

Pros

Users value the robust security features of BlackFog, effectively preventing data theft and enhancing overall protection.
Users feel secure and protected with BlackFog, appreciating its ability to operate quietly while preventing ransomware.
Users commend BlackFog for its exceptional customer support, enhancing user experience and ensuring seamless software deployment.
Users value the ease of use of BlackFog, praising its simple integration and straightforward management.
Users praise BlackFog for its effective real-time protection, ensuring data safety and peace of mind effortlessly.

Cons

Users feel that BlackFog lacks advanced features like scheduling reports and device management, necessitating additional solutions.
Users find the UI design lacking, with odd translucent windows that detract from an otherwise user-friendly experience.
Users find BlackFog has limited features, lacking advanced device management tools for comprehensive security needs.
Users often face false positives in alert management, leading to time-consuming processes and frustration in handling alerts.
Users find the complex user interface of BlackFog challenging, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with cybersecurity tools.

What Are Recent G2 Reviews of BlackFog?

"Exceptional Security Support, Simplistic Setup"

Rating: 5.0/5.0 stars

— Ric R.

Best Antivirus Software - Page 3

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