system
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Anti-virus software protects a user’s computer from computer viruses. A lose interpretation of a virus is a program that copies itself from one file to another and from one computer to another. They can attach themselves to executables and of course lodge in the MBR. The can change files and basically make your computer unusable or usable only in a limited manner.
Malware/Spyware on the other hand is mostly used to gather information from your computer for marketing purposes or stealing personal information. In other words a data gathering software. Malware as such does not harm your computer unless you have a lot of it then it can slow down the computer. However, it can harm you by the information it steals such as passwords. Malware can also re-direct your browser to certain websites where again certain information can be stolen.
Bottom line.
Viruses are aimed at messing with your computer
Malware/Spyware is aimed at messing with you.
I could be incorrect however that is my understanding of the difference between the two.
Therefore
- Anti-virus software is geared primarily toward protecting your computer
- Anti-spyware software is geared primarily toward protecting you.
Of course anti-spyware software can protect your computer against certain viruses but that is not its main objective.
At least that is how I understand it. 