Computers have become an indispensable household appliance for the storage and retrieval of vital information. Unfortunately, the primary link to that world of knowledge, the Internet, is an information superhighway where historic thieves known as “highwaymen” have morphed into malicious software such as viruses, worms, trojans and phishes. The field of security software emerged more than 20 years ago in responses to these threats. As they’ve done annually, analysts for computer publications have presented a comparison of the top three antivirus firewall software programs to guide consumers into wise security choices.
In keeping with recent experience, the top rankings in antivirus software are going to younger, faster and leaner brands than those pioneers in the field, Norton and McAfee. The younger brands are showing both power and innovation in their offerings.
The unanimous top choice among reviews this year is the 2010 issue of VIPRE AntiVirus + AntiSpyware. VIPRE has really been coming up in the computer security field over the past few years, and this year it really rang the winning bell. Reviewers lauded VIPRE as being one of the leanest running software programs of its kind, yet still a powerhouse that delivers both antivirus and antispyware abilities.
Software judges were impressed by the way VIPRE beat all its competition in every test used for evaluation. This software boasts strong real-time security while using few disk resources and sweeping incoming email for threats. It’s easy to install and use, includes an excellent file eraser tool to clean out viruses, and has a technical support staff that’s totally US-based. All that comes for only $29.95 MSRP.
VIPRE’s one drawback is the lack of a firewall built into its software. This means that VIPRE users have to finish off their castle of computer protection by installing VIPRE’s companion, Sunbelt Personal Firewall, at an additional cost of $24.95. Reviewers lauded each piece of software as powerful on its own, but reflected that the two programs combined created a virtually impenetrable wall of security against malware attacks.
Another newcomer, BitDefender Antivirus 2010, wowed the judges this year. It scored well on each antivirus test with just a few minor defects. Reviewers praised BitDefender’s real-time antivirus protection as “excellent”, “possibly even the best on the market. Resource usage was very low, and overall PC protection against viruses and other malware was top-notch. Judges thought the software was ideal for IM and WiFi, along with antispyware protection and 24/7/365 tech support via email.
BitDefender’s loudest praise came for the way it has set up its user interface. The software has become eminently user-friendly, dividing its interface into Novice, Intermediate and Expert levels. Users can choose a category for installation and use, making BitDefender one of the smoothest operating and strongest security options available, at only $24.95.
Coming in at number three in the security race was Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2010. This manufacturer touts its 2010 edition as “new and improved, ” apparently referring to is core programs for antivirus and anti-spyware protection.
Kaspersky’s one downfall is its anti-phishing feature, reviewers said. Although Kaspersky has upheld its recent tradition with excellent core antivirus and antispyware programs, the anti-phishing was disappointing in comparison tests. However, this drawback doesn’t completely negate this brand’s value, since current browsers and email programs have become so adept at capturing phishes before they snag some unwary user. Kaspersky’s $39.95 price puts in a class with the old timers, however, and consumers hope a price drop will occur in the near future.
Find more details about the best antivirus programs available today! When you need to get the antivirus firewall software that will keep your system protected and running great, you can find it fast and easy!
Mail this post
Sat, Jun 12, 2010
PC Security