What type of software is designed to detect and remove malware from a system?

Antivirus software is specifically developed to identify, detect, and eliminate malware from computer systems. It works by scanning files and programs for signatures of known malware, as well as using heuristic analysis to identify potentially harmful software based on behavior or characteristics. These programs update their databases regularly to stay informed about new and evolving threats, ensuring ongoing protection for users.

In contrast, a firewall serves a different function by monitoring incoming and outgoing network traffic, establishing a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks. It does not specifically target malware but rather focuses on controlling access to and from networks.

Spyware and adware are types of malware themselves. Spyware collects user information without their consent, and adware primarily displays unwanted advertisements. Neither of these types of software functions to protect or remove malware; instead, they can be harmful to users and their systems. Thus, the role of antivirus software is crucial in protecting systems against various malware threats.