In an age where digital threats proliferate, it’s tempting to think that more security equates to improved security. However, when it comes to anti-virus software, less is more.
Anti-virus software is a critical component of network and device security. With the constant threat of cyberattacks from malware, network administrators might wonder if running multiple anti-virus products on a single device or local area network (LAN) could provide additional protection. However, the consensus among cybersecurity experts is that this approach can do more harm than good.
Why Multiple Anti-Virus Programs Aren’t the Answer
Running multiple anti-virus software on a single device or LAN, either simultaneously or alternately, is an unnecessary redundancy that can create application conflicts and drain network resources. While the idea of layering multiple security solutions might seem appealing, it will likely introduce more problems than it solves.
Consider the following three key reasons supporting this conclusion, along with more effective strategies for keeping digital assets safe:
- Redundancy: A waste of resources. Today’s top-tier anti-virus programs are robust and comprehensive. Installing a second anti-virus program is an unnecessary expenditure of time and money, duplicating the work of existing infrastructure. This redundancy can lead to wasted resources since two installed anti-virus programs would concurrently scan and monitor the same files and systems.
- Conflicts: Errors and system crashes. Imagine two programs with the same objective, simultaneously executing similar commands on a single host device or LAN: for instance, trying to quarantine the same file at the same time. This scenario can create conflicts, leading to errors and crashes. Even if the programs are not running at the same time, they can still conflict with each other, causing system instability.
- Resource consumption: Draining network performance. Anti-virus software is known for consuming a lot of system resources. Having two anti-virus programs installed on one LAN or device can cause them to out-compete other applications for local resources, slowing the device or network considerably. According to AV Comparatives (2022), “Even if each solution boasts a low level of performance impact, together they will almost certainly slow your machine down and possibly cause other issues.”
A Better Strategy
Instead of layering duplicate programs, focus on established cybersecurity protocols, such as:
- Select a reputable anti-virus program: Select a well-established and reliable solution from a trusted vendor.
- Keep it updated: Regularly update your anti-virus software to protect systems against the latest cyber threats.
- Practice safe computing: Avoid clicking suspicious links, downloading files from untrusted sources, and using weak passwords.
By purchasing a trusted anti-virus program and maintaining it with regular software updates, you can protect devices and networks without compromising performance or introducing unnecessary complexity.
Cybersecurity Best Practice: Defense-in-Depth
While using multiple anti-virus products is discouraged, an improved strategy for keeping networks safe is to implement defense-in-depth. Rather than purchasing an anti-virus software program (or two), network security administrators can deploy a comprehensive malware security suite to protect against a range of threats, such as:
- Viruses
- Trojans
- Spyware
- Worms
- Ransomware
- Adware
By combining malware protection with other security measures, such as firewalls, application security patches, and judicious internet use, the result will be robust network and device security that runs efficiently. This defense-in-depth approach provides a layered security strategy that will detect and respond to various threats without application conflicts and problematic resource consumption.
Two Isn’t Always Better than One
When it comes to protecting software from viruses, two is not better than one. Running multiple anti-virus applications on a device or LAN is resource intensive; duplication can lead to system performance degradation, negatively impacting end-user experience.
By understanding the risks of redundancy, conflicts, and resource consumption, security administrators can make informed decisions about their cybersecurity strategy. By adopting a defense-in-depth approach, network administrators can build a robust network and device security environment.
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Reference
AV-Comparatives. (2022, March 14). Why you should never have multiple antivirus programs on your computer. https://www.av-comparatives.org/why-you-should-never-have-multiple-antivirus-programs-on-your-computer/
