In Palo Alto Networks, what does the "Antivirus" profile do?

The "Antivirus" profile within Palo Alto Networks is specifically designed to enhance security by scanning files for known malware threats. This capability allows the system to inspect files that are transmitted across the network, ensuring that any known malicious software is detected and blocked before it can cause harm. The effectiveness of antivirus features is enhanced by regularly updated signature databases that contain information on a wide array of malware.

This proactive scanning mechanism helps maintain a secure environment by preventing malware from infiltrating systems and networks. As files are evaluated in real-time, users benefit from immediate protection against threats, thereby reducing the risk of malware infections.

Other options pertain to different functionalities. Blocking all outbound traffic does not relate to the primary purpose of an Antivirus profile and would rather restrict necessary communications. Monitoring network performance metrics is tied to performance management tools and has no direct connection with antivirus capabilities. Identifying unencrypted traffic pertains to data security and traffic analysis rather than malware detection. Thus, the role of the Antivirus profile focuses specifically on identifying and managing malware threats within the network.