In the realm of PC gaming, a prevailing sentiment suggests that to achieve peak performance, one must eliminate any potential hindrances. This often leads gamers to consider disabling antivirus software, but the question remains: does this truly enhance performance, or is it a misguided approach?
Does your antivirus really slow down your game?
It is widely acknowledged that antivirus software can indeed slow down a PC when running in the background during gaming sessions. However, the degree of this slowdown varies significantly based on the software’s activity. Routine monitoring typically results in a minimal impact, with performance dips ranging from negligible to about 20 percent. Thus, for most casual gaming scenarios, the effect on gameplay is likely to be minor.
Conversely, when an antivirus program engages in a full or partial scan, the slowdown can be considerably more pronounced, sometimes reaching up to 57 percent. This level of interference can lead to noticeable lag and interruptions, particularly in graphically intensive games, where frame rates may drop and load times extend. While temporarily disabling antivirus software may alleviate these issues, it raises concerns about security.
Is switching it off advisable then?
Despite the potential for performance enhancement, security experts generally advise against turning off antivirus software while gaming. The primary function of antivirus programs is to safeguard against threats such as viruses, malware, and ransomware—dangers that persist regardless of whether one is gaming. Online gaming often necessitates connections to servers and the downloading of various files, which can harbor malicious content.
Recent reports have highlighted instances of malware embedded within downloadable game files on platforms like Valve’s Steam. Additionally, gaming communities are frequently targeted by phishing scams, further emphasizing the need for robust antivirus protection. Therefore, maintaining antivirus software during gaming sessions is advisable whenever possible.
What else you can do
For those seeking a balance between performance and protection, opting for antivirus solutions designed specifically for gamers may be the ideal route. These programs often feature a dedicated gaming mode that minimizes system impact, suspending background scans and notifications while still providing essential security measures. For instance, Norton’s 360 for Gamers is tailored to meet the needs of gamers without compromising on protection.
If you prefer to stick with your current antivirus provider, consider scheduling virus scans for times when you are not gaming. Creating an exclusion list for game files can also help prevent unnecessary checks that could interfere with gameplay. Lastly, always ensure that games and associated files are downloaded from reputable sources to mitigate the risk of encountering harmful content.
By adopting these strategies, gamers can enjoy a more seamless experience while still prioritizing their digital security.
Author: Dominic Bayley
Dominic Bayley, the Australian Editor for PCWorld, is a dedicated tech enthusiast with a focus on PC gaming hardware, including laptops, mice, headsets, and keyboards.
