Top 10 Antivirus for System

WHY BUY ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE?

Without antivirus software, malware and other Internet threats will infect your computer. For this reason, this section offers a detailed description of programs and free virus removal tools so that you can decide which is the best for your needs. In addition, most include 90 days of free tech support for both home and business use.

#1. Trend Micro Titanium

Website: www.trendmicro.com
EDITOR RATING: excellent

$44.95

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 will not bog down your system. Besides, the program does not need constant updating 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 , effective protection. You can easily protect children from inappropriate websites and see detailed reports about what they do online. However, it seems to have intermittent problems with automatic updates.

Conclusion

The danger of an attack on a computer system is constantly growing. This version of Trend Micro prevents your browser from running malicious scripts on infected Websites and displays a warning when 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 6.0

Website: www.norton360online.com
EDITOR RATING: excellent

$89.99

Pros

The latest edition of Norton AntiVirus version 6.0 provides a fast, responsive defence 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

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 connect to Wi-fi networks more safely.
• AutoFix technology will diagnose and fix common problems for you.
• Automatically schedules scans and updates to occur while your 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

$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

Website: www.pandasecurity.com
EDITOR RATING: very good

$39.99

Pros

Does not slow down your system as much as other anti-virus protection. Easy to set the controls and stable, it works across a 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 codes.

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 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 does not hog system resources. On the downside, some users have 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

Website: www.eset.com
EDITOR RATING: very good

$39.99

Pros

Comes in both 32bit and 64bit versions, so running it on the Microsoft Windows 7 platform is not a problem. It features delayed startup scan and incorporates shortcuts to the most used action. On-demand scan speed is faster than average.

Cons

It sometimes displays a false positive. 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 carried out automatically in the background. From the main panel control, the program allows you to enter to advanced features: quarantine, log etc.

New Interface

Besides, the warning system can submit new threats to ESET'S server and delivers feedback that can help protect your computer better.
The one aspect we like about most this program over all the others, is that it does not overload the system resources. One of the problems with some antivirus solutions, e.g. Bitdefender, is that they sometimes erroneously interfere with certain components. This is not the case in the latest version of ESET.

Final Verdict

Overall, you can't go wrong with NOD32. Despite having a 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 Reveal

Free

Logs every keystroke and passwords behind asterisks. Pro edition available

#5. Avira Antivir Premium

Website: www.avira.com
EDITOR RATING: very good

$25.99

Pros

Offers solid protection against malware and stops 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 sites. 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

Website: www.zonealarm.com
EDITOR RATING: good

$39.95

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 scans are 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 without 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 Tunnelling protocol.(L2TP)
A reboot is required to finish the installation. Besides, the program fits perfectly into an 800x600 resolution, so it could be used on a netbook screen.

Summary

We were pleased to see that ZoneAlarm Extreme Security has both standard chat and instant messaging 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

Website: www.webroot.com
EDITOR RATING: good

$29.95

Keeps 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 is 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 now offers a comprehensive desktop antivirus package. On the other hand, no personal file protection is available. Limited to 1 PC for one year.

Features

Lightweight

Continually updates itself

Small footprint on the hard drive

Thanks to its tiny size, the software installs very quickly and takes just seconds. In addition. the product’s performance was greatly improved (fast and accurate) compared 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 in beta versions still and delivers inconsistent detection rates.
Targeted squarely at the home user, it is suitable for use on laptops and low-resolution monitors.

Conclusion

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

Website: www.kaspersky.com
EDITOR RATING: good

$39.95

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. It has 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. The additional tools available are also well designed and easy to deploy.

Conclusion

The price compares favourably 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

Website: www.bullguard.com
EDITOR RATING: fair

$29.95
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 does not seem to be much improvement in terms of performance and threat detection. Nevertheless, Bullguard offers a 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 signature-based and behavioural detection that keeps things as simple as possible for novice users.

What is 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, 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 the control of viruses which behave abnormally based on process or files. The usability of the program.

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

Atomatic installation and doesn't require a reboot. 79.56MB

#10. G Data AntiVirus 2012

Website: www.gdatasoftware.com
EDITOR RATING: fair

$29.95
Pros

Received the VB100 award issued by Virus Bulletin. Low-resource anti-virus program. The software runs with two independent virus scanning engines. Not too 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 deletion of viruses that have embedded themselves prior to installation of the antivirus software on your system. However, if you have already used a setting with the log option, your PC may not be virus free.
If a suspicious file is found during a virus check, you can simply delete it.

Conclusion

To sum up, their antivirus solution enables detection of the newest breed of hidden threats known as rootkits. (behaviour blocking and cloudsecurity features). Compared to the 2011 edition, the new interface now uses a colour chart and each option is available in the main window.