What is the primary purpose of antivirus software?

The primary purpose of antivirus software is to detect and remove malicious software, commonly referred to as malware, from a computer. This includes various types of threats such as viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and spyware. Antivirus software works by scanning the computer system for known malware signatures and suspicious behaviors, allowing it to identify threats and eliminate them before they can cause significant damage. Additionally, antivirus programs often provide real-time protection by continuously monitoring the system for any signs of malicious activity, ensuring that users are safeguarded against new threats as they emerge. This focus on maintaining system security is crucial for protecting sensitive data and ensuring the overall integrity of the computer system.

The other choices relate to functions that are not the primary focus of antivirus software. Improving system graphics is generally addressed by graphics drivers or dedicated graphic enhancement software. Optimizing system performance might involve utility tools or system tuning applications designed to improve speed and efficiency, while managing network traffic typically falls within the realm of firewalls or network management tools.