What is an Anti-virus Cloud System?

In the world of anti-virus technology, there is much debate surrounding whether a cloud system is beneficial to computer protection. While the cloud system does have many benefits, it also has several drawbacks that make some critics wonder if traditional security anit-virus software isn't a better choice for consumers.

The Basics

With traditional security software, you download an application to your computer. The opposite is true with a cloud system. A cloud system is computer protection that works from a remote server, meaning that the data isn't stored on your computer. It is stored on a company server. This type of system is accessible no matter where you may travel, as long as you have access to the internet, since internet is the only way to access a remote server.

If the cloud consists of data floating out in cyberspace, then cloud anti-virus is data used specifically to protect your computer from malicious attacks, even though the data is not physically on your computer. Your computer's information is run through a check outside of your actual system, in the host's infrastructure (the software company's server). This type of protection automates the detection of new viruses, protecting computers much faster than previous methods could. For example, humans once had to test virus code themselves; now cloud technology does it automatically.

The Benefits

What makes this system superior to traditional security software?

First, cloud system security doesn't drag down your computer because it doesn't need to use massive amounts of memory to perform scans. This will keep your computer running more quickly than it does with traditional systems.

Next, cloud system security instantly updates with the latest information for new viruses, Trojans, spyware and other bugs that could affect your computer. This quick updating ultimately keeps your computer better protected.

Finally, this type of system prevents viruses, Trojans, spyware and other bugs from even accessing your computer in the first place.

The Drawbacks

While the cloud system sounds like the perfect anti-virus security system, some experts have their doubts.

One major concern is that the system requires a fast internet connection to run properly. This leaves wireless-card, satellite and dial-up users without reliable protection.

Another problem is that a computer must have access to the internet at all times to be protected. This leaves computers vulnerable when downloading information from potentially infected external hard drives or memory sticks when the computer is not online.

Experts also predict the creation of a new virus that will block remote servers. The virus would, in theory, attack while the cloud system is disabled. While this is hearsay and speculation, history has shown that hackers will find a way to disable new security measures soon after new technology is put in place.

While the cloud system is a fantastic new way to protect your computer, it is impractical for most users. The best solution is to choose software that you can install on your computer combined with the cloud system anti-virus protection.

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