What is meant by signature-based detection?
Signature-based detection is a method used to identify malware and other threats based on known characteristic features or signatures. These signatures are specific patterns or codes that are typical of certain types of malware. Signature-based detection compares the code or features of files, programs, or processes with a database of known malware signatures to determine if it is malicious software.
Typical functions of software in the area of signature-based detection include:
- Signature Database: Utilizing an extensive database of malware signatures that is continuously updated to capture new threats.
- File and Process Scanning: Performing scans of files, programs, and running processes to look for known malware signatures.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Monitoring the system in real-time to detect suspicious activities and take immediate action.
- Automatic Updates: Regular updating of the signature database to stay protected against newly discovered malware and variants.
- Quarantine and Removal Actions: Isolating and removing identified malware to ensure the integrity of the system.
- Notifications and Reports: Providing notifications about detected threats and generating reports on scan results and security events.