What Is Real-Time Protection?
Real-time protection (or real-time scanning) is an antivirus feature that continuously monitors your system for threats, scanning files as they're opened, downloaded, or executed — rather than waiting for scheduled scans. It intercepts malware before it can infect your system.
Also known as: real-time scanning, on-access scanning, active protection
Why Does Real-Time Protection Matter?
Real-time protection is the most important antivirus feature because it stops threats proactively. Without it, malware could run undetected until the next scheduled scan. All reputable antivirus products include real-time protection, but performance impact varies.
Products with Real-Time Protection
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Real-Time Protection FAQ
What is Real-Time Protection?
Real-time protection (or real-time scanning) is an antivirus feature that continuously monitors your system for threats, scanning files as they're opened, downloaded, or executed — rather than waiting for scheduled scans. It intercepts malware before it can infect your system.
Why does Real-Time Protection matter?
Real-time protection is the most important antivirus feature because it stops threats proactively. Without it, malware could run undetected until the next scheduled scan. All reputable antivirus products include real-time protection, but performance impact varies.
Which products use Real-Time Protection?
Real-Time Protection is relevant to Antivirus Software products. Visit our comparison pages to find products that support this feature.
What is Real-Time Protection also known as?
Real-Time Protection is also referred to as: real-time scanning, on-access scanning, active protection.