Malware--short for "malicious software"--is a problem that plagues all computers in use today. Malware and spyware--software designed to track your activities or find other personal information--can be damaging to the health of your computer and, depending on the purpose of the software, to your finances as well. Because of the prevalence of malware, many programs exist to help remove it and secure the computer to make repeated infections less likely. Whether you are a novice computer user or an expert, you should have software installed to protect your computer from these threats. Although it would be impossible to list every computer security tool, learning how some of the major products compare can help you make a more informed decision.
Symantec Norton AntiVirus - Having been sold for decades, the Norton brand name is one of the best known in computer security. Symantec Norton AntiVirus offers removal of malicious software as well as real-time scanning of files before they have the chance to enter your computer. Symantec Norton AntiVirus was ranked the second-best anti-virus program of 2010 by PC World, and was called the "rootkit removal king" by PC Magazine. Symantec Norton AntiVirus costs $39.99 as of 2010 for a one-year subscription.
Microsoft Security Essentials - A new player in the vast field of computer security software, Microsoft Security Essentials is a free product for customers with valid Windows licenses. In 2010, independent authority AV Comparatives noted that while Microsoft Security Essentials ranked slightly below average in its ability to detect threats, it was among the leaders in avoiding false alarms. Additionally, if your Windows-based computer is updated automatically, already have the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool installed. It detects and removes many of the most common malware infections and is updated monthly. However, contains no routines for detecting malicious software that is previously unknown.
Kaspersky Anti-Virus - Kaspersky Anti-Virus is one of the programs taking advantage of the new trend toward "cloud computing." Computers protected by Kaspersky Anti-Virus report new programs to Kaspersky's servers and if you run a program on your computer that is unknown, the servers are queried before the program is executed to confirm that it is safe. Kaspersky Anti-Virus costs $59.95 for a one-year license as of 2010. The license allows Kaspersky Anti-Virus to be used on three computers simultaneously.
ESET NOD32 Antivirus - Praised by tech radio host Leo Laporte, NOD32 Antivirus is designed to consume as little of the system's resources as possible. ESET claims that the high-speed malware scanning capability of NOD32 Antivirus can reduce the time spent waiting for downloaded files to be scanned by 30 percent. Additionally, NOD32 Antivirus automatically scans removable storage devices such as flash drives when they are inserted in the computer. NOD32 Antivirus costs $39.99 for a one-year license as of 2010.
AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition - AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition is one of the better-known free computer security programs available and it has been recommended by both PC Pro and CNET. However, AVG Anti-Virus was ranked slightly below average in terms of successful detections and false alarms by AV Comparatives in its 2010 comparison.
McAfee AntiVirus Plus - Available since the late 1980s, McAfee AntiVirus is among the longest-running series of computer security products. McAfee claims having one of the highest virus and malware detection rates, a claim verified by AV Comparatives in its 2010 comparison. McAfee ranked near the top of the field in detected threats. However, it also ranked near the bottom in false alarms, reporting more threats incorrectly than most other products tested. McAfee AntiVirus Plus features a streamlined user interface designed with the inexperienced user in mind and costs $39.99 for a one-year subscription as of 2010.
Bundled Products - Many computer manufacturers bundle malware, spyware and virus removal tools with their products, as do some Internet Service Providers. If your computer includes a malware removal tool, you can likely find it pre-installed. However, if you do not typically use your provider's online portal or web-based e-mail, you may be unaware of services they provide. Check with your provider to see if a license to download a malware removal tool is included.
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