Which of the following can help prevent a computer from infection by malicious software?

Using anti-malware software is a fundamental and highly effective measure for preventing a computer from being infected by malicious software. This software is specifically designed to detect, prevent, and remove harmful programs such as viruses, worms, trojan horses, and other types of malicious software. By regularly scanning the system, identifying potential threats, and blocking them before they can cause harm, anti-malware software acts as a crucial line of defense against infection.

Moreover, while other choices like updating the operating system regularly and applying the latest security patches also contribute to a comprehensive security strategy, they do not directly prevent malicious software in the same proactive and targeted way that dedicated anti-malware solutions do. These updates and patches primarily ensure the operating system remains secure against known vulnerabilities, protecting against potential exploits that could be targeted by malware.

Consequently, while both operating system updates and security patches are essential for maintaining broader system security, the active presence of anti-malware software provides direct and continuous protection against a wide range of threats, which is why it is considered a primary defense measure in preventing computer infection by malicious software.