Everyone needs some sort of antivirus protection on his or her own computer; it really ins’t optional these days. Your computer is constantly being struck with a barrage of malware on a daily basis. Below are five of the top affordable antivirus products, any one of which should suit the average user’s needs.
1. Vipre Antivirus 2012
Vipre has been in business for over 20 years, has outstanding customer support, and offers a 30-day money back guarantee.
The interface is a little dated looking, but highly usable. Menu selections are fast and easy.
The software slow to install, but that’s only because it is getting your computer and installing updates during the initial installation.
Vipre excels in virus prevention, virus removal, and tech support.
2. Kapersky Anti-Virus
Kapersky has been in business for over 15 years and offers 14-day money back guarantee.
The user interface is not the best, but still usable. The technical support can leave a little to be desired, but help is available if you’re patient.
Software does an excellent job in virus removal and prevention. Kapersky’s research lab is highly respected. Any new viral threats are dealt with quickly at the corporate level
Kapersky can struggle compared to other anti-virus platforms when it comes to phishing threats.
Overall, Kapersky Anti-Virus is an excellent program.
3. Bitdefender Antivirus
While perhaps not a household name like McAfee or Norton, Bitdefender has been around for 11 years.
Bitdefender routinely scores in the top three of affordable antivirus software programs, especially virus removal and real-time virus protection.
CPU usage is among the lowest compared to the competition. However, disk space requirements are significant. A full installation is approximately 800 MB versus the usual 500 MB for other programs.
Menu and control features are very intuitive and easy to use, however the color scheme might be offputting to some; it is dark.
4. AVG Anti-Virus 2012
While AVG is primarily known for their free antivirus software, with the paid version there are some extra features well worth the money.
AVG was a little less effective than the top antivirus programs during real-time threat testing. Some well-known viruses can be quite difficult to remove.
The user interface isn’t bad, but it’s not very efficient. A lot of mouse clicking is required to get anything done.
As a bonus, there are parental controls to keep the kids safe. This is unusual in antivirus programs at this price point.
5. Norton Antivirus
It seems like the company been around forever; actually it’s been in business since 1982.
Norton is especially strong against newer virus threats. It is also excellent at removing those stubborn, deeply embedded viruses that are notoriously difficult to remove.
Installation is extremely fast and easy.
Extra features include e-mail and IM protection.
Norton has been notoriously sluggish in the past, but recent versions are much more streamlined and efficient.
There is no antiphising component.
Don’t leave your computer unprotected. Choose a reputable antivirus program that meets your needs.
About the Author
Jo Harris is a writer and the Director of Content for the Morgan Law Firm. Please visit the Morgan Law Firm Blog for additional content.
Leave a Reply