In the realm of PC gaming, there exists a widely accepted principle: to optimize gaming performance as much as possible, even to the extent of considering disabling certain programs, including antivirus software. The question arises, however, does antivirus software genuinely affect gaming performance, and is it worth turning off during gameplay?
Antivirus software running in the background can indeed lead to a decrease in PC performance. The actual degree of this slowdown varies depending on the specific functions the antivirus program is performing, with potential impacts fluctuating from negligible to about 20 percent.
Generally, the influence on gaming may be minimal; however, the real concern lies in the possibility of lag and interruptions that can occur when the CPU is taxed by additional workload. Gamers playing graphically intensive titles may experience lower frame rates and extended load times, prompting the thought of temporarily disabling their antivirus software.
Yet, this poses a critical question regarding safety. Professional security experts typically advise against turning off antivirus software while gaming.
The fundamental purpose of antivirus protection is, of course, to safeguard against viruses, malware, and ransomware. Engaging in online gaming necessitates connecting to servers, downloading various files, and accessing game assets—each potentially harboring hidden threats.
For those seeking an effective balance between gaming performance and antivirus protection, opting for antivirus solutions designed specifically for gamers is a practical choice. These programs often feature a gaming mode to minimize CPU impact while maintaining necessary virus monitoring.
If you prefer to stick with your current antivirus setup, consider scheduling scans during off-peak hours when you’re not gaming. Creating an exclusion list for game files also helps avoid unnecessary checks.
Lastly, always download games and their files from reputable sources to minimize the risk of encountering harmful software inadvertently.