WHY BUY ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE?
Without antivirus software, malware and other Internet threats will infect your computer. This is why, you will find here detailed descriptions on programs and free virus removal tools so you can decide which is the best for your needs. In addition to that, most of them include 90 days of free tech support for both home and business use.
#1. Trend Micro Titanium
EDITOR RATING:
excellent
Pros
Titanium Antivirus Maximum Security provides comprehensive and easy to use protection from viruses, intruders, and other Internet-based threats. It has all the security programs you would want on your PC. Offers 10 GB of online storage.
Cons
Parental control is weak and limited. Lack of configuration options.
The Verdict
You can choose up to three types of scans. This version doesn't bog down your system. Besides, the program doesn't need to constantly update like AVG or Bullguard.
Features
Wireless authentication
Fake antivirus cleaner
Real-time updates
Best of all, the anti-virus engine protects against computer viruses, worms and Trojan horse programs. Moreover, it has achieved solid results, specifically in the proactive tests, performance and on-demand detection. The menu displays a list of security reports. Runs in the background without being annoying.
New Interface
Powerful anti-spyware technology guards your personal information and privacy against rootkits and other malicious software.
The latest edition of Trend Micro always delivers reliable and good protection. You can easily protect children from inappropriate websites and see detailed reports about what they do online. However, it seems to have intertmitant problems with automatic updates.
Conclusion
The danger of an attack on a computer system is constantly growing. This vesion of Trend Micro prevents your browser from running malicious scripts on infected Websites and displays a warning whehen connected to unsafe wireless networks. Overall, similar to last year's software, it offers quick loading, no slowdowns and complete protection against Internet threats.
Specs Data
System Requirements
CPU: 800 MHz recommended. Memory: 512 MB. Disk space: 500 MB
Details
Microsoft Internet Explorer. Mozilla Firefox 3.5 or above. Chrome 10.0 or above<
Online help. Forum
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Returnil System
Free
PC security suite including malware protection. Performs a scan of your running processes. Version 3.2.
ClamWin
Free
An open source freeware for the Windows platform. File size: 36.96MB. Version 0.97
UnHackMe
$34.90
Finds hidden rookits from your computer system. Publisher: Greatis Software. 10.82MB
DesktopOne
$19.95
The Pro version offers auto deletion of spam mails and technical support. File size: 10.26MB. Author: Cloudmark
#2. Norton 360 version 5.0
EDITOR RATING:
excellent
Pros
Norton AntiVirus v5.0 provides fast, responsive defense against all types of malicious software. The new Norton Protection System employs a multilayered set of security technologies that work in concert to detect, identify, and block attacks.
Cons
Lack of options available compared to earlier versions. Acceptable malware detection.
The Verdict
This software does a lot all by itself without any configuring: it gets better every year. If your computer's security is important to you, it does the job!
Features
Virtually invisible
Online diagnostic tool
Best proactive protection
The access to the essential functions of the software is easy to use. Each user can check the security status of their PCs or smartphones via the main console.
- Network mapping and monitoring.
- Secures, stores and manages login and personal information.
- Automatically saves important files locally or to secured online storage.
- Maps your wireless home network.
- Free chat and phone support.
- Monitor your home network and more safely connect to Wi-fi networks.
- AutoFix technology will diagnose and fix common problems for you.
- Automatically schedules scans and updates to occur while PC is idle.
- Blocks browser exploits and protects against infected Web sites.
- Prevents unauthorized users from changing your critical applications.
- Monitors all processes and registry changes.
Final Verdict
No antivirus is 100% perfect but if you are looking for a set-and-forget security system, give Norton 360 a try!
In addition, scans are easily scheduled: updates run in the background. And the customer service is professional and kindly.
Specs Data
OS Supported
Windows XP (32-bit) with Service Pack 2. Windows 7 (32-bit and 64-bit)
Availability of support channels may vary by country
Minimum Hardware
300-MHz or faster processor. 256 MB of RAM; 512 MB recommended. Browser: IE 6.0 or higher or Firefox 3.0 or higher.
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Prevx 3.0
$29.95
Available to detect and remove screengrabbers and rogueware. Version 3.0. Windows compatible programs
Protea Tools
$84.00
Can be integrated with the Lotus Notes administration client. File size: 3.5MB. Publisher: Protea Tools
Anti Trojan Elite
$39.95
System security manager and malware remover. System issues management. Version 5.5
VirusKeeper Pro
$29.95
Analyses files using signature scanning. Back Door Detect protection. Internet connection is required for updates
#3. Panda Antivirus Pro 2012
EDITOR RATING:
very good
Pros
Doesn't slow down your system as much as other anti-virus protection. Easy to set the controls and stable, it works across multitude of OS and service packs.
Cons
One minor drawback is that the initial system scan may take a long time.
The Verdict
Good value for the price. Easy to install and does a good job of protecting your computer from viruses and other malicious code.
Features
Home Network Manager
Safe browsing
Behavior analysis
Like Norton and Avira, Panda Antivirus Pro 2012 offers a wide range of utilities and new features: USB vaccine, virtual keyboard etc, with minimum bandwidth usage.
Installation and antivirus alone
Today's attacks move faster than the speed of AV software. Most scanners use extracted patterns to identity known malware. Whatever your specific needs, this company provides a set of antivirus solutions that anyone can afford.
The current version now offers a good protection when installed on a clean system. The cost remains reasonable and very user friendly.
Conclusion
When compared to its competition, Panda Antivirus Pro 2012 doesn’t hog system resources. On the downside, some users have also complained that scans may take between 20 to 60 minutes. On the other hand and thanks to a new feature called Collective Intelligence, the program is able to detect more malware than traditional signature-based solutions.
Specs Data
Operating Systems
Windows 7 and XP (32-bits and 64-bits).
Supported browsers: Internet Explorer 6.0 or above, Chrome and Firefox 2 or above
Technical Requirements
CPU: entium 300 MHZ or faster. Hard Disk: 265 MB free space. RAM: 512 MB
Internet speed: broadband recommended
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Immune Protect
Free
Cloud based anti-virus software. No need to download any signature files.
WebPost Tools
Free
All-in-one diagnostic utility for both business and home use.
M Autorun Killer
$11.99
Offers a comprehensive USB protection. No need signature updates. File size: 1.73MB
PC Media
$299.99
Uses heuristic algorithms to detect new viruses. Operating system: Windows
#4. ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5
EDITOR RATING:very good
Pros
Comes in both 32bit and 64bit versions, so running it on the Microsoft Windows 7 platform is not a problem. Featuring delayed startup scan and it incorporates shortcuts to the most used action. On-demand scan speed is faster than average.
Cons
Sometimes there are false positives. Visiting the online help pages is not very helpful.
The Verdict
Built on ESET's heuristic technology to prevent malicious software from corrupting or disabling the system's security. Improved removable media management. AV scanner runs within safe mode.
Features
Cloud-enhanced whitelisting
HIPS configuration
Seamless updates
Based on the ThreatSense scanning engine, updates of virus definitions are done automatically in the background. From main panel control, the program allows you to enter to adcanced features: quarantine, log etc.
New Interface
Besides, the warning system can submit new threats to ESET'S server and delivers feedback that can help better protect your computer.
The one aspect we like about most this program over all the others, is that it doesn't overload the system resources. One of the problems with some antivirus solutions, e.g. Bitdefender, is that they sometimes interfere with components that they should not. This is not the case for the latest version of ESET.
Final Verdict
Overall, you can't go wrong with NOD32. Despite of having dull interface compared to other AV, the price is reasonable for what you get. Best of all, the customer service is friendly and very professional.
Specs Data
System Requirements
All Windows platform. Internet Browser IE or FireFox. Processor architecture: i386 minimum.
Details
Product activation: administrator privileges required for installation.
Memory: 44 MB. Disk space: 35 MB
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EAV Suite
Free
Can block ARP attacks and trojan connections to network. Version 5.98
Trojan Guarder
$49.95
Monitors all running processes in memory system. Trojan definition added
Clean Virus MSN
Free
destroys MSN Messenger viruses and analyses connections in memory.
Process Revealer
Free
Logs every keystroke and passwords behind asterisks. Pro edition available
#5. Avira Antivir Premium
EDITOR RATING:very good
Pros
Offers a solid protection against malware and stopping all kinds of viruses. Program interface: no user intervention is required which is ideal for inexperienced users.
Cons
No firewall and anstispam included. Audible warning system may be boring.
The Verdict
Includes WebGuard that allows you to to block access to malicious site. Comes with an online user guide. .
Features
Game mode
Express installation
Netbook support
The most important feature for this kind of software is to keep your computer free from viruses and other suspicious code. The latest of Avrira was certified by ICSA Labs (an independent division of Verizon Busines).
AV Comparative - Recent Tests
The products with the highest on-demand throughput rate with best possible detection settings were Avira (pole position), Symantec and Panda. (Summary Report 2010, last revision: 9th January 2011).
Survey Notes: The program reviews are based on their own observations and opinions.
Conclusion
Overall, Avira Antivir Premium comes at a reasonable cost for a single use. It is a good overall solution and it does the job without the annoying pop up messages. It also did very well in terms of false positives.
Specs Data
Operating Systems
Windows 7 (32-bit or 64-bit) Windows Vista SP1 (32-bit or 64-bit) Windows XP SP3 (32-bit) Windows XP SP2 (64-bit) After interviewing users and observing them navigate the product, Symantec's interface designers concluded that the on-demand scanning and checking for updates are what users do most. The new user interface puts those two features front and center, with almost everything else hidden until you click the Advanced link.
New Interface
Administrator rights and a web browser are required during installation.
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USB Flashdrive
$15.00
Protection against autorun viruses. Version 1.0
K7
$49.96
Blocks unwanted programs slowing down the performance of the computer. File size: 77.52MB
Unthreat Free
$39.95
Stops unknown and suspicious threats. Applications rules sets included
Dr. Web Cureit
Free
The utility supports multi-language. File size: 40.75MB
#6. ZoneAlarm Extreme Security
EDITOR RATING:good
Pros
The step-by-step installation enables the user to choose the installation folder. A configuration wizard leads you through setup, making it easy for users to secure their systems fast. Updating the virus definitions can be done very easily.
Cons
Compared to other security suites, this version might frustrate more advanced users. Parental control and malware blocking are weak. Scheduled scan, not set to run by default.
The Verdict
Designed for easy upgrade from version to version, it still provides adequate protection. It automatically notifies you when an update is available. On a negative note: deficient customer service.
Features
Virus pre-scan
24/7 live chat
New behavioral antivirus
The program is able to automatically detect most proxy configurations, such as those configured through Mozilla Firefox or Internet Explorer whithout slowing down your system.
Configuring for networks and VPN Connection
Before setting the program, ensure that the local subnet is in the Trusted Zone. The following supported VPN protocols are: Internet Key Exchange protocol; Lightweight Directory Access protocol Layer 2 Tunneling protocol.(L2TP)
A reboot is required to finish the installation. Besides, the prgram fits perfectly into an 800x600 resolution and so could be used on a netbook screen.
Summary
We were pleased to see that ZoneAlarm Extreme Security has both standard chat and instant messagings options. However, we recommend paying $20 more for Trend Micro Titanium Maximum Security, an advanced program that combines a better interface with excellent malware protection.
Specs Data
Minimum Requirements
32-bit and 64-bit with2 GB RAM or 2 GHz or faster processor.
250MB of available hard-disk space.
All versions of Windows.
Browser Requirements
Mozilla Firefox 3.0 and above. Internet Explorer 7 and above.
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Quick Heal 2012
$25.00
Protection against malicious threats that may sneak into your system. Version: 13.0
Autorun Eater
Free
Tweaks and improvements to the detection window. You do not need to manually scan a drive.
Artav
Free
New features such as: realtime protection and registry repair. File size: 1.13MB
eScan
$29.95
Protection to all the folders residing in the computer. Gaming mode. Current version: 11.0
#7. Webroot SecureAnywhere Antivirus 2012
EDITOR RATING:good
Pros
Allows to keep your computer running smoothly. The new version has been completely redesigned and rewritten. All the essential functions are thus easily accessible from the control panel.
Cons
There's no spam filter. The uninstall program of Webroot has no repair or selective uninstall options.Firefox would not work properly.
The Verdict
This latest edition offers now a comprehensive desktop antivirus package. On the other hand, no personal file protection, available. Limited to 1 PC for one year.
Features
Lightweight
Continually updates itself
Small footprint on the hard drive
Tnaks to its tiny size, the software installs very quickly and takes just seconds. In addition to that. the performance of the product was greatly improved (fast and accurate) over the previous version.
Usability and performance
The main program interface is very clean and easy-to-use. It does everything automatically. However, the web management capabilities are very basic. Product seems be still in beta versions and delivers inconsistent detection rate.
Targeted squarely at the home user, it is suitable for use on laptops and low-resolution monitors.
Conclusion
Because of its low malware detection score prevents it from becoming a top contender among other AV tools. A simpler means of setting a scheduled scan would be welcomed.
Specs Data
Details
Windows 32-bit and 64-bits (all Editions). 128 MB RAM (minimum). 10 MB Hard Disk Space
Notes
Internet access. nternet Explorer 7.0 and higher, Mozilla Firefox 3.6 and higher (32-bit only)
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USB Disk
$55.00
Protection against any malicious programs Compatible with other antivirus software.
Hitman Pros
$19.95
True cloud computing anti-malware. No installation required
Multi Virus Cleaner
Free
Detects each variants of Nyxem, Bagle and MyDoom. 8.08MB
FortiClient Lite
Free
Capable of detecting threats. Endpoint protection suite. Version 4.3
#8. Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2012
EDITOR RATING:good
Pros
Protects your computer against known and unknown threats, and against unwanted data. Installation is quite simple and quick. Including uninstaller options and rescue disk wizard. .
Cons
Phishing protection is insufficient. Telephone support and chat are not as good as with some competitors.
The Verdict
Application graphical user interface has been updated. Protection from new types of leak tests has been added. Has as a small footprint in comparison to other brands.
Features
Cloud-based detection
File's reputation
Critical area scan
There are lots of decent AV products out there. And the software performed reasonably well, doing what it's supposed to do. For example, before deleting an infected object, Kaspersky Anti-Virus creates a backup copy of it.
Configuring virus scan schedule
Like most antivirus software today, the new system restore wizard helps repair damage to your system arising from malware attacks.
Three default virus scan tasks are created. Depending on how critical the event is for computer security, you can change the schedule settings in the main window. At last, the additional tools available are also well conceived and easy to deploy.
Conclusion
The price compares favorably with other solutions and this is a decent 3-user license at $59.95. Scans could be faster. Poor customer support. .
Specs Data
Details
480 MB free space on the hard drive, minimum. Internet Explorer 6 or higher. Windows 7, Visa and XP
Note
CPU: 800 MHz or higher. RAM 512 minimum. Microsoft Windows Installer 2.0
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Emisoft
$20.00
Full scan against keyloggers and all other types of malware. Windows XP and Vista
Microsoft Security
Free
Monitors your computer and adds heuristic detections into the Windows firewall.
PC Tools Antivirus
Free
Designed specifically for known trojans and bots. Real-time protection.
McAfee Plus
$34.99
Prevents suspicious software from gaining access to your system. File size: 130.67MB
#9. BullGuard Antivirus 12
EDITOR RATING:fair
Pros
Gets high scores in detection and false positives from AV comparatives. One of the best in phishing protection. Huge improvement over the earlier version.
Cons
There are some issues on installation. Takes a lot of time to install. Lacks features such protection for P2P file sharing.
The Verdict
There doesn't seem to be much improvement in terms of performance and threat detection. Nevertheless, Bullguard offers commendably small memory footprint when running a deep scan.
Features
Malware blocking improved
Proactive protection
Live chat
Founded in 2002 by two Danish entrepreneurs, BullGuard is now a UK-based, software company. That being said, on the AV front, this release offers a new signatured-based and behavioural detection that keeps things as simple as possible for novice users.
What's new in this version
Based on the BitDefender antivirus technology, the latest version of Bullguard provides a Web-based panel control to manage your account.
Like most current products and for its 2012 edition, the program now offers fast scanning times including no reboot on install.
Conclusion
Overall, we would say that BullGuard’s behavioural detection allows to control virus which behave abnormally based on process or files. The usability of the program is top notch providing easy access to quarantines and schedules and some nasty bugs have been fixed. However, it doesn't provide file recovery features. No anti-phishing toolbar included.
Specs Data
Minimum Operating System
Windows 7, Vista and XP (Service Pack 2).
RAM: 512 MB
Hard drive space: 200 MB
Note
Internet Connection: Dial-up minimum.
Available in: English, Swedish, German, French, Spanish, Italian
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F-Prot
$29.00
Automatic real-time detection of unwanted content. Covers up to 5 computers
Protector Plus
$29.95
Designed for servers and windows pc. Advanced scan engine.
VirusBuster
$92.00
Logs and results are saved in a log. File size: 26.99. From Protea Tools
Avast! PRO
$39.99
Automatic installation and doesn't require a reboot. 79.56MB
#10. G Data AntiVirus 2012
EDITOR RATING:fair
Pros
Received the VB100 award issued by Virus Bulletin. Low-ressource anti-virus program. The software runs with two independent virus scanning engines. Little intrusive.
Cons
So-so interface. You will have to restart your computer after installation.
The Verdict
According our latest tests, this program should not cause the average user too many problems. Built to detect the usual viruses, dialer spyware, and phishers effectively.
Features
Idle scan
Phishing protection
Antirootkit
Founded in Bochum, Germany, the company is focused on business computing and home users including all mobile devices with Android operating system 2.0.
Quarantine and Mailboxes
The boot scan enables to delete viruses that have embedded themselves prior to installation of the antivirus software on your system. However, if you already have used a setting with the log option, it might be that your PC is not virus free.
If a suspicious file is found during a virus check, you can simply delete it.
Conclusion
To sum it up, their antivirus solution enanables to detect the newest breed of hidden threats known as rootkits. (behavior blocking and cloudsecurity features). In comparison to the 2011 edition, the new interface now uses a color chart and each option is available in the main window.
Specs Data
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 7, Visa XP (SP2 or higher, 32-64bit).
Not compatible with Macintosh and Linux platform
Note
1 GB RAM. 512 MB RAM.
Internet connection needed
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AIMFix
Free
Written in C++. Runs on AOL IM. Version 1.6
Conficker Virus
Free
From Sophos. Version 1.3. File size: 3.74MB
I-Worm Stooper
Free
Deletes this kind of virus. Fast and effective tool. 435KB
Blaster Removal
Free
You need administrative rights to run this application. File size: 132.19KB
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