Qihoo 360 (奇虎360), commonly referred to as 360, is one of China’s leading providers of internet and mobile security products, as well as a major player in the search engine market through its platform, 360 Search (also known as Haosou or so.com). Established in 2005, the company’s focus on cybersecurity has made it a household name in China, especially for its antivirus software, secure browsers, and other safety tools.
Over the years, 360 expanded into the search engine market to compete with Baidu and Sogou, launching its own search engine and becoming one of the most-used alternatives to Baidu in China. The company also provides a variety of other online services, including cloud storage, mobile apps, and a secure web browser.
Key Products and Services:
360 Safeguard Antivirus Software (360安全卫士):
360 Safeguard is one of the most widely used antivirus and cybersecurity tools in China, known for its comprehensive protection against viruses, malware, phishing, and other online threats. It offers the following features:
- Real-Time Protection: 360 Safeguard provides real-time virus protection, constantly scanning the user’s system for potential threats, including viruses, Trojan horses, and spyware. It automatically blocks suspicious programs and websites, protecting users from malicious content.
- System Optimization: In addition to virus protection, 360 Safeguard includes tools for system optimization, helping users improve their computer’s performance by cleaning up unnecessary files, managing startup programs, and optimizing memory usage.
- Privacy Protection: The software also includes features to protect users’ privacy, such as secure deletion of files and encryption options for sensitive documents. It can also block tracking cookies and other methods used by websites to collect user data.
- Free to Use: One of the reasons for the software’s widespread popularity is that it is free to download and use, a model that has allowed Qihoo 360 to gain a significant market share in the Chinese antivirus market.
360 Search (360搜索 or Haosou/so.com):
360 Search, also known as so.com or Haosou, is one of the most prominent search engines in China, competing directly with Baidu and Sogou. Launched in 2012, the search engine quickly grew in popularity by integrating cybersecurity features into search results, making it a safer option for users concerned about malware and phishing sites.
- Search Engine Features: 360 Search offers standard search engine functionalities, such as searching for web pages, images, news, and videos. However, it emphasizes secure searching, with built-in protections that identify and warn users of malicious websites or content within search results.
- Market Share: While Baidu dominates the Chinese search engine market, 360 Search holds a significant position as a reliable alternative for users focused on safety and privacy. It caters to users who prioritize security and privacy protection while browsing.
- Focus on Cybersecurity: One of the key differentiators of 360 Search is its focus on cybersecurity. It includes additional warnings for unsafe websites and promotes safe search results, which align with Qihoo 360’s broader mission of internet security.
- Ad-Supported Model: Like other search engines, 360 Search operates on an advertising model, displaying sponsored ads at the top of search results, but the search engine claims to prioritize user safety in the ads it presents.
360 Secure Browser (360安全浏览器):
The 360 Secure Browser is a web browser developed by Qihoo 360, focused on delivering a secure and safe browsing experience. It is notable for its modified version of the Internet Explorer logo, a subtle nod to the familiar UI while integrating extra security layers.
- Security Features: The 360 Secure Browser is designed with built-in security features, such as phishing detection, malware blocking, and HTTPS encryption enforcement. It automatically scans websites for threats and alerts users if they attempt to visit an unsafe site.
- Multiple Rendering Engines: The browser uses multiple rendering engines, allowing users to switch between WebKit and Trident (the engine used by Internet Explorer). This makes it versatile for both newer web standards and legacy websites that may still rely on older technologies.
- User-Friendly Design: The browser’s interface is simple and user-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of users. The logo, which resembles a modified version of the Internet Explorer logo, provides a sense of familiarity for users transitioning from other browsers.
- Privacy Protection: In keeping with 360’s broader mission, the browser includes features designed to protect user privacy, such as blocking tracking cookies, protecting users from data collection, and offering incognito browsing options.
360’s Role in China’s Digital Ecosystem:
Qihoo 360 plays a significant role in China’s cybersecurity landscape and has also made its mark in search engine and browser markets. The company’s broad suite of products offers comprehensive protection across different areas of the internet, from browsing to file sharing and search.
- Cybersecurity Leadership:
Qihoo 360 is widely trusted in China as a leading cybersecurity company, with products like 360 Safeguard being household names. Their focus on free-to-use cybersecurity tools has made them a staple on Chinese desktops and mobile devices. - Search Engine Competitor:
360 Search (so.com) has become a popular alternative to Baidu, particularly among users who prioritize online safety and privacy. The platform’s focus on safe searching and malware protection makes it stand out in the highly competitive search engine market. - Privacy and Security as Core Values:
Whether through its antivirus software, search engine, or browser, 360’s mission is clear: to provide a safe and secure online experience. This emphasis has allowed the company to build a loyal user base that values its security-first approach.
Qihoo 360 has grown from an antivirus software provider into a major player in China’s search engine and browser markets. Its strong focus on cybersecurity sets it apart from competitors, particularly in its efforts to ensure that users have a safe and protected online experience. Whether through 360 Safeguard, 360 Search, or the 360 Secure Browser, the company continues to lead in China’s online security and safe browsing sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- What is Qihoo 360 best known for? Qihoo 360 is best known for its 360 Safeguard Antivirus Software, which provides real-time protection against viruses and malware.
- How does 360 Search compare to Baidu? While Baidu dominates the search engine market in China, 360 Search offers a security-focused alternative, prioritizing safe search and privacy.
- Is the 360 Secure Browser safe to use? Yes, the 360 Secure Browser is specifically designed with security in mind, offering built-in protection against phishing, malware, and unsafe websites.
- What’s the difference between 360 Safeguard and other antivirus software? 360 Safeguard is a free antivirus solution that emphasizes real-time protection and system optimization, making it popular with users who seek both security and performance improvement.