We all know the value of Antivirus software - A full time Internet user cannot go without one
An Internet businessman most certainly cannot live without one.
A couple that we like are below, but dont stop there - make sure you are diligent in researching exactly which is the best antivirus for your needs.
Below is a screenshot of Paretologic Antivirus Plus… One of our favorites.
Here are the things to do when you shop for your antivirus software.
1. Make a list of all available antivirus software. A list is the best place to start. You can compile a list of the available antivirus software from many sources. Check the software reviews from computer magazines like PCMag, Personal Computer World, PC Review, etc., or Google for antivirus products. You can get quite an exhaustive list. Now, we have to narrow the list down to about ten or so products. For this, eliminate the products above the budget; products not meeting your system configuration; and those meant for mainframes, servers, and large organizations. Also, note the list of services available in each program.
2. Narrow your list down by looking up the software that support and run really well on the software and hardware configuration of your system. For this, check the recommended system configuration of the software.
Free Download - Repair and Speed-up Windows Instantly!
3. Now, you should go to two or three computer magazines and at least five popular online review sites (Softpedia, Download.com, CNet reviews, Amazon, etc.,) and read their reviews of the programs in your list. It is important to note that each reviewer rates one of the programs as the best, and this may be different. So, you can get an option to concentrate on the best of the lot from these reviews narrowing the list down still.
4. As the next step, read the user reviews from forums and review websites. Most users have such things to share as support options of the program, experiences with the support group, features or innovations in the software, information on virus signature updates, program updates, etc. Some of the users even help you further by clarifying your doubts.
5. Check the antivirus compatibility issues, virus update frequency, support options, update time for new viruses, and performance on your system. Find the programs most compatible with your system and not taking too much of system resources.
6. Look at the extra features available on the antivirus. Some of them provide options like email security, attachment scanning, automatic virus removal, auto updates, spyware detection (if available it is very good), option to upgrade to an exhaustive security suite (like that offered by ZoneAlarm, ESET, etc.) If your antivirus gives you these options at a good enough price, then it can be a great choice.
7. If you can upgrade the program to a security suite (complete security suite) featuring a firewall, a detection tool for adwares and spywares in addition to viruses, then it is really a good option to go for. Also, check out reviews on upgrade. Install applications that do not complicate upgrading.
8. A distinction between free and paid software: Free software are a plenty … But all of them may not be as effective as the better paid ones.
For you to stay safe online, it is extremely important to guard your system with an acclaimed antivirus.
This is a software sentry at watch on your ports, checking each packet that passes through and locking out for the corrupted ones. Corrupted packets are suspicious. Also, the antivirus carefully watches the actions of each software program running on your system and finds those showing suspicious behavior or those damaged by viruses (viruses can attach themselves to legitimate programs and corrupt them to do malicious actions).
A Final Consideration …
It is very important to remain safe online because it is your user IDs and passwords, credit card numbers, personal identity, etc. that are at risk.
Feedback
Do you have experience with any product mentioned in this article? Please share your thoughts or ask questions below …
constant-content.com | October 12th, 2008
You can leave a comment, or trackback from your own site.
This is great info, thanks.
User reviews are always a good idea to check.
With all the Rogue products flooding the market, its easy to fool the casual user into a bad decision.