Whats the difference between Anti Malware and Anti Virus Programs

Over the past month or so I have been debating with a few other techs over what the differences between anti malware and anti virus programs. Although I understand that opinions vary, to me the terms should be used one in the same for the average user, with an option for more details for the mid-level to advanced user rather. My reasoning is most people search for an "anti virus program" and not an "anti malware program" unless otherwise instructed by a tech adviser.

Unfortunately, as a tech it is easy to let the desire to correct someone overwhelm you. Hence, my colleagues argument.

So I have to ask, when it comes to a basic computer user does anyone think it really matters if we call an "anti malware program" and "anti virus program" and vice verse? After all, to the newbie they one in the same?

Any thoughts ideas feed back and or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Antivirus is meant to find, and remove viruses from your computer. Viruses are unwanted and malicious code that deletes, edits and or adds files in the hope of being destructive.

Antimalware is programs that defend against all malware. The main malware groups are trojans, viruses, spyware, adware, worms, rootkits, phishing. Antimalware software is definitely more complete than antivirus programs and it a much better purchase because you will run in to atleast two types of malware. Simply put there are seven major threats and antivirus software only protects you against one of those seven.

wiki.answers.com

I agree but they don't cover exactly the same issues of infection.

You are right though,the average user probably might not understand the differences.

Yes i would consider it a tool also!
Rescue disc-just a tool.