As new viruses crop up, Trend Micro collects their telltale signatures and incorporates this information into the virus pattern file. Because new and virulent viruses appear every day, Trend Micro frequently makes available new versions of the virus pattern file, depending on the need and threat-risk. By default, all Trend Micro antivirus applications automatically update the virus pattern file no less than once a week.

Upon discovering a particularly damaging virus �in the wild,� or actively circulating, Trend Micro releases a new pattern file as soon as the detection routine for the threat becomes available (usually within hours).