SANS Assessment of Student Learning Plan (ASLP) Security Awareness Training

Which action provides the most protection against malware?

1. Using a VPN

2. Regular Software updates

3. Installing multiple antivirus programs

4. Turning off the firewall

The correct answer is: Regular Software updates

Regular software updates provide the most protection against malware because these updates often include critical security patches that address known vulnerabilities in software. Malware exploits these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access, spread, or execute harmful activities on a device. By keeping software up to date, users can close off these potential entry points for malware attacks. Moreover, software developers consistently monitor threats and enhance their applications to defend against the latest malware tactics. Therefore, when users regularly update their software, they ensure that their systems are equipped with the latest defenses and improvements, significantly reducing the risk of infection. While using a VPN can enhance privacy and security when browsing, it primarily protects network traffic rather than directly addressing malware vulnerabilities. Installing multiple antivirus programs can lead to conflicts and may not improve protection, as they can interfere with each other's functions. Turning off the firewall is detrimental to security as it removes a fundamental layer of defense against incoming threats, which can include malware.