What type of software is primarily used for protecting a computer from malware?

Antivirus software is specifically designed to detect, prevent, and remove malware from computers. This type of software employs various methods to identify malicious code, such as signature-based detection, heuristic analysis, and behavior monitoring. By continuously scanning for known threats and using advanced algorithms to identify new, unfamiliar malware, antivirus programs help maintain the integrity and security of a computer system.

While operating systems play a crucial role in managing computer resources and providing a platform for application execution, they do not include inherent mechanisms for malware protection. Application software serves specific user needs, such as word processing or web browsing, but it does not focus on security functions. Utility software, although it can enhance system performance and manage other system functions, does not specifically target malware protection. In contrast, antivirus software is uniquely dedicated to safeguarding systems against various types of malware, underlining its importance in maintaining overall computer security.