ClamAV vs Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool

ClamAV is a free, open-source antivirus engine for email and web scanning and endpoint security tasks. It provides a multi-threaded daemon, a command-line scanner and a tool for automated virus database updates. The database receives updates multiple times per day, and the updater supports scripted updates and digital signatures. ClamAV scans standard mail formats and many archive, executable and document formats, including MS Office, HTML, RTF and PDF. A Milter interface supports Sendmail. On modern Linux versions, ClamOnAcc can scan files when accessed, with an option to block access until scanning finishes. Signed signature databases limit execution to trusted definitions. The project lists GNU/Linux, FreeBSD, macOS and Windows as regularly tested platforms, and official Docker images are available for Alpine Linux and Debian Linux. ClamAV is an engine and associated tools, not a traditional antivirus or endpoint security suite. Recommended minimum resources are 3 GiB RAM, a 2.0 GHz CPU and 5 GiB of free disk space. The project does not guarantee extraction of every version or variant of supported formats.

Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool is a free, on-demand utility for scanning an infected computer and removing viruses, adware, riskware, Trojans, and rootkits it finds. It runs only when started and does not provide continuous background protection, so Kaspersky presents it as a possible second opinion alongside existing security. No installation is required: it can run from a USB drive and removes itself when closed. Kaspersky says its disinfection technology targets active infections, including malware that resists removal or blocks standard antivirus software. Scan choices include startup objects, boot sectors, system memory, and hard-drive volumes. Quick Scan checks memory, startup objects, and boot sectors; custom scans can cover full systems, selected directories, system volumes, or all volumes. Kaspersky describes the utility as intended for infected Windows computers, while Linux support is listed for its unpacker and command-line options. The tool alerts users when updates are needed, and updating requires an internet connection. Online technical support and help documentation are provided.