Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus is security software for detecting malware and monitoring potentially harmful activity. Its Windows protection combines background shields with on-demand scans, controls for individual executable files, and safeguards against attempts to capture personal information.
Security shields
SecureAnywhere watches activity as programs run. Its Realtime shield blocks recognized threats using Webroot’s threat definitions and community database, while monitoring unfamiliar programs for signs of malware. When a shield raises an alert about an unrecognized or potentially harmful item, the user can allow it or block it.
Other shields cover particular entry points. The Rootkit shield blocks rootkit installation and removes detected rootkits. The USB shield monitors connected flash drives and can block and remove threats found there. An Offline shield provides protection while the computer is disconnected from the Internet.
Web protection integrates with the Web Threat Shield browser extension in Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. The Firewall shield examines outbound network traffic for malicious data and can block the application sending it. This targets the offending program’s communication while retaining the computer’s Internet connection.
Scan types
Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus uses a Deep scan by default when a scan starts from the main interface or system tray. This analytical check searches for threats including rootkits, trojans, and inactive malware. A Quick scan has a narrower purpose: it checks files in active memory and can miss dormant malware that becomes active after a restart.
A Full scan covers all local hard drives. Custom scanning lets the user build a list of particular files and folders to examine, adding or removing targets before starting the check.
Block/Allow Files
The Block/Allow Files panel lets users override the normal scanning and shield decisions for individual executable files. Files can be selected through a file browser or dragged from Windows Explorer. The controls apply to executable components such as EXE, DLL, SYS, DRV, and COM files.
Each entry can be set to Allow, Block, or Monitor. Allow excludes the file from scanning and shielding; Block prevents it from executing or being written to the computer. Monitor leaves SecureAnywhere watching the program to determine whether it is legitimate or associated with malware.
Identity protection
Webroot SecureAnywhere’s Identity Protection area contains separate Identity and Phishing shields. These address information-stealing techniques such as keystroke logging, screen capture, and phishing schemes. The interface displays the state of each shield independently, allowing the user to see whether both parts of this protection are active.
Webroot’s older lineup and current plans
AntiVirus belongs to Webroot’s older product lineup. Webroot now offers Essentials in place of AntiVirus Basic, Internet Security Plus, and Complete, with corresponding device-count plans. Existing customers can still renew their earlier subscriptions or move to a current plan.
