What should be crucial when selecting antivirus software?

When selecting antivirus software, compatibility with the operating system is crucial because the software needs to operate seamlessly with the underlying system to effectively monitor, detect, and eliminate threats. If antivirus software is not compatible with the operating system, it may not install correctly, may not function properly, or could even cause system instability. This compatibility ensures that the antivirus can access all necessary files and processes, allowing it to provide comprehensive protection against malware and other security threats.

Additionally, antivirus software that is designed for a specific operating system often uses features and functions that take advantage of that system's unique architecture and security protocols, leading to better performance and protection.