Server antivirus software protects servers from viruses, spyware, and malware. It includes real-time scans, file scanners, and proactive scans. Administrators can customize settings and schedule scans. Compatibility issues must be considered when selecting antivirus software for different server types.
Server antivirus software works similar to antivirus software for individual computers. Types of antivirus protection for servers include real-time scans, anti-spyware and malware packages, and comprehensive file scanners and removers. Some antivirus programs run on specific server types, such as SQL and proxy servers. Most server virus protection programs actively monitor Internet traffic and file transmission.
An important type of server antivirus software is real-time scanning. This type of software can be a feature within a complete antivirus protection package or a standalone application. Real-time scanning software actively examines all files and communications that pass through the Internet and intranet communication ports. If the application detects a threat or a suspicious Internet Protocol (IP) address, it blocks or quarantines it.
The settings of a real-time scan antivirus program can be configured according to an organization’s needs. Network administrators are typically responsible for determining the types of antivirus programs needed. An administrator can customize a scanning application to search for specific file types and IP addresses. Most scanning applications stored on a server are capable of examining all traffic on individual machines connected to a local or wide area network.
A popular and essential type of server antivirus software is an application that scans all stored files for antivirus programs. Included in most of these software packages, this application regularly scans already existing files. Network administrators can set specific times and days for the application to run, which will also remove infected programs from existing files. The program usually provides some sort of notification to the administrator, who may need to delete infected files to completely remove the virus.
Proactive scan applications are another type of server antivirus software. These types of applications scan servers for potential loopholes that could make them susceptible to intrusions. In addition to looking for potential vulnerabilities, these applications can provide suitable fixes that can strengthen server defenses against unwanted attacks.
Server antivirus software can be customized based on the type of server you have. Various server programs have different compatibility and security issues. For example, a virus protection program can interfere with the speed capabilities of the server. SQL or Structured Query Language servers may be more at risk if they are used on a public local area network or if they handle both e-mail and Internet traffic. For this reason, antivirus software packages that include protection against multiple intrusion routes may be more appropriate.
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