Antivirus software is designed to protect computers against malware, including viruses, worms, and spyware. It scans devices for malicious code, either in real-time or on scheduled scans, and quarantines or removes detected threats. Antivirus programs often include features like firewalls, web protection, and phishing detection to enhance security. Properly deployed antivirus solutions are essential for maintaining system integrity and protecting sensitive data from cyber attacks.