What is Antivirus / Next-Gen Antivirus?
Antivirus software detects and removes known malicious programs using signature databases, while next-generation antivirus (NGAV) adds machine learning and behavioural analysis to stop new and fileless threats that have no known signature. NGAV is the modern baseline for endpoint protection.
Why Antivirus / Next-Gen Antivirus matters for Australian businesses
With cyberattacks on Australian businesses increasing year on year, understanding your security tools and strategies is critical. The Australian Cyber Security Centre reports an attack every six minutes, and small and medium businesses are increasingly targeted. Having the right defences in place is not optional — it is essential for protecting your data, your clients, and your reputation.
For small and medium businesses in particular, next-gen antivirus can make a real difference in maintaining a secure, efficient, and resilient IT environment. Whether you are reviewing your current setup or planning improvements, understanding the role of next-gen antivirus in your broader IT strategy will help you have more informed conversations with your IT provider and make better decisions for your business.
Related terms
EDR • Malware • Zero-Day Vulnerability
How All IT Services can help
At All IT Services, we help businesses across Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and regional NSW implement and manage next-gen antivirus as part of our comprehensive cybersecurity solutions. If you have questions about how this fits into your IT strategy, contact our team for a no-obligation consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between antivirus and NGAV?
Traditional antivirus matches files against known threat signatures, while NGAV analyses behaviour and uses machine learning to block brand-new, modified and fileless attacks.
Is free antivirus enough for a business?
No. Free consumer tools lack central management, reporting and behavioural detection. Businesses need managed endpoint protection with visibility across every device.
Do I need both NGAV and EDR?
They are complementary and usually come together: NGAV blocks threats automatically, while EDR records endpoint activity so threats that evade prevention can be detected and investigated.