What Anti-Virus Software is Right for You?

It is common knowledge that everybody should have some sort of anti-virus software installed on their computer. Without it, you are basically guaranteed to get a virus or some sort of spyware onto your computer. If you are looking to protect your computer from spyware and viruses, you are probably wondering what the best anti-virus software packages are available on the market right now.

1. Symantec Norton Internet Security
Norton is probably the most widely used virus protection software currently available. There are several versions of Norton, but the most commonly used version is Symantec Norton Internet Security 2006. Some of the main features which it offers are the filtering of spam and dangerous e-mails; the removing of viruses, Trojan horses and worms; and the blocking of intruders and identity thieves. Additionally, it hides your computer from hackers; it scans e-mail and instant message attachments for virus threats; and alerts you to serious virus outbreaks and adjusts your computer to block them. Furthermore, it prevents confidential information from being sent without your approval; blocks websites that you don’t want your children to visit; removes keystroke loggers; and blocks popup windows.

The package guarantees you twelve months of protection updates that are made available throughout the year. You can also buy a firewall made by Norton which will further help protect your computer. Some retailers, such as Wal-Mart, sell the two programs together at a discounted price. Since Norton has such a reputable name and the performance to back it up, it is probably your best bet for computer protection.

2. Panda Anti-virus
The Panda Anti-Virus 2007 package is the most up to date version of this brand of anti-virus software. The key features of this software is that it detects and eliminates all types of current viruses; it keeps your computer free from spyware; it protects you from online fraud; it gives you automatic daily updates; and technical support is available twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year. Like Norton’s package, Panda also offers up to date protection for twelve months. Panda’s technical support is available to consumers during this time at no additional cost.

3. McAfee Internet Security
McAfee Internet Security for the past few years has been one of the lowest rated anti-virus software programs, but with its key new features, its quality seems to slowly be improving. The software claims to work as an 8 in 1 protection against identity theft. McAfee stops viruses; blocks spyware and hackers; improves your computer’s performance; backs up and restores your files. The other features that it promises is to secure your identity; prevent spam and e-mail scams; and protect children while they are using the Internet.

Of the three software choices (Norton, Panda, and McAfee), your safest bet is probably to go with Norton. It is much more reputable, has an overall better rating, and has been proven to be more reliable than its competitors.