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2011 No.3 Antivirus:
Webroot AntiVirus 2011
Publisher: Webroot Software
Version: 2011
Pros: The software combines antivirus protection from Sophos with the best antispyware program Spy Sweeper for an effective one-two punch against malware.
Cons: Webroot is still missing a few nice features like a laptop mode and link scanner.
The Verdict: Webroot has one of the best antispyware/antivirus combo packages we’ve seen
Webroot AntiVirus Review
Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper is the perfect virus/spyware combo. The software is easy to use, and features effective protection and performance. AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper combines all the right components to deliver one of the best antivirus software programs available. With just a few features missing (battery saving mode and a rescue CD), Webroot AntiVirus is among the best security software, and our TopTenREVIEWS Bronze Award winning 2011 antivirus software.
The only thing keeping this software out of the top slots is the lack of a few features like a battery saving mode and rescue CD.
Even everyday computer users need advanced protection from the prevalent computer threats. From viruses to rootkits, to malicious hacking tools and vulnerability exploits; a multi-layered approach is almost essential for everyday protection. Webroot’s antivirus/antispyware software has all the right features and more. The new 2011 version features all the power of previous versions with an updated interface and new optimized scanning.
Scope of Protection:
Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper is a very comprehensive desktop antivirus package. The software protects from threats from several sources, and the several layers of protection keep your computer safe. Webroot protects PCs from viruses in all forms, as well as worms, Trojans, malware, and rootkits.
Webroot monitors and detects all sorts of malicious files and just plain unwanted programs like adware, dialers, cookies, and keyloggers. The integrated Spy Sweeper is an amazing standalone anti-spyware software that in itself protects from a variety of computer threats.
The software is completely armed to not only detect, but effectively remove malicious files, even ending running processes and removing associated registry entries. Webroot’s defensive technologies help keep your information protected from hackers and identity thieves.
But more than just being on the defense, Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper also features proactive technology to find malware before it even has the chance to hit your computer. With today’s newest threats being designed to bypass traditional signature-based scanning, advanced protection is so important. Webroot’s “zero-hour” protection analyzes files for malicious behavior and other incriminating behavior, and blocks files that might prove to be a virus in disguise.
Effectiveness:
Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper revolves around 13 protective “shields” that cover your network, web browsing, Windows, startup programs, email and more.
The web browser shields keep you safe online, blocking from Internet Explorer hijacks, exploits, tracking cookies and even unwanted browser “helper” objects. The email shield works for both emails you receive (Pop3 port 110) and messages you send (SMTP port 25), so you won’t accidentally forward along a threat to your friends, family, or coworkers.
Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper is comprised of two powerful components (antivirus and antispyware, obviously). The desktop antivirus component is powered by business security experts Sophos. The antispyware element is managed by Webroot’s own Spy Sweeper.
The antivirus protection is certainly up to par, earning several recent Virus Bulletin VB 100% awards. These certify that the antivirus engine is completely capable of protecting from 100% of known in-the-wild viruses.
The software is also ICSA approved, and certified from the West Coast Labs as an effective solution for desktop antivirus, anti-trojan, anti-malware, and antispyware.
The antispyware software included is second to none. Webroot Spy Sweeper provides an impressively high level of protection from spyware and other identity-compromising malware. Combined with antivirus protection from Sophos, Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper is certainly effective.
Ease of Installation:
Webroot AntVirus with Spy Sweeper is easy to install and implement. It doesn’t require a restart after installation, but definitely recommends a full scan immediately after you install.
The installation process introduces the WARN (Webroot Automated Research Network), the proactive network approach that (if you give permission), allows Webroot to gather anonymous information that helps them keep on top of new threats.
Ease of Use:
Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper features an intuitive interface and simple tools to accommodate any user level. The new 2011 interface is definitely more modern with updated graphics and icons, and organized with tabs for simple navigation and quick access to all the major components of the software.
The best part about the software is that it is designed to run smoothly without much supervision. Scans and updates occur automatically in the background. Of course you can also always run a manual scan or schedule a specific scan. Viruses and other malware that are found are immediately moved to the secure quarantine, where you can decide what to do with them.
As is customary with antivirus software, Webroot utilizes the classic “stop-light” color-coded theme. If the interface and at-a-glance status icon are green, everything is secure. When a threat is detected the icon may change to a yellow color, or red for an issue that is more critical. However serious the issue may be, the software provides a quick way to solve it and carry on.
Scans are no longer separated between quick sweeps and full scans. Instead, scans are optimized to check what they need to and run at more appropriate times. The software is equipped to scan all drives, including external media, as well as the Windows registry, compressed archive files and executable applications. You can also easily scan a single file from anywhere on your computer by simply right clicking on it and sending it the software to check for viruses.
Features:
Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper has several integrated features that add security benefits as well as convenience. Probably the best feature is the full inclusion of Webroot’s Spy Sweeper. This component takes care of the annoying (and often dangerous) adware, pop-up and rootkits. But more than just locating and removing the threats, Spy Sweeper helps spread awareness by letting you know what the dangers are so you can make an informed decision.
Another nice feature is the gamer mode. You can turn this feature on with the click of a button, and it will let you enjoy full-screen computer games, videos, presentations and more without annoying interruptions from the software. And while this mode isn’t as secure as having the full system enabled, you don’t have to worry about forgetting to toggle back to full protection because the software will do it by default after 4 hours.
Updates:
Keeping your security up-to-date is easy with Webroot. The software is setup to automatically check for updates regularly (every hour if you want) and even initiates updates delivered immediately to your system if needs be, with Webroot’s VersionGuard technology.
And even better than constant updates, Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper includes real-time proactive protection, analyzing files and keeping an eye out for malicious behaviors that “tip-off” the software that the file is a virus. The software is armed with proactive technology that stops new threats even if they haven’t been identified as such. File behavior is monitored to make sure stealth viruses don’t slip past.
Help & Support:
Webroot’s antivirus software is very easy to use, but you can also get extra help if needed. In-program help is available, as well as additional resources online. Free phone support is available on weekdays, and they now have online live chat, or you can send a request via email at any time. The online support center also has product-specific user guides and a FAQs section. There are also helpful videos for product installation and getting familiar with the application and features.
Premium support is also available for security optimization, virus removal, and even PC tune-ups, but cost extra (prices vary per type of assistance).
Summary:
Combining a good antivirus scanning engine (from Sophos) and the best antispyware protection available, Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper is a great security solution. The software combines all the essential features and includes added value with beneficial tools and simple usability. Overall, Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper is one of the best antivirus programs, and a valuable security solution
AVG Anti-Virus 2011
2011 No.6 AntiVirus:
AVG Anti-Virus 2011
Version: 2011
Publisher: AVG Technologies
Pros: AVG Anti-Virus 2011 includes the LinkScanner and Social Networking Protection.
Cons: AVG’s scanning engine is effective, but not the fastest. The software also overprotects at times, causing false positives.
The Verdict: AVG Anti-Virus continues to deliver new features and is one of the best antivirus software available, just not THE best.
AVG Anti-Virus Review
AVG Anti-Virus 2011 offers a number of compelling features and the right technology to keep your PC protected. As one of the best antivirus software products reviewed, AVG offers a great solution that delivers advanced protection and simple use. AVG’s free antivirus software is one of the most downloaded files for computer security, but for the most benefit it’s definitely worth paying for the full version.
With innovative new features and improved performance, AVG 2011 is better than ever.
The new social networking protection and LinkScanner up the ante with proactive web protection, cloud antivirus and a security network. And while there are a few antivirus software products that slightly surpass AVG in security and performance, AVG Anti-Virus is definitely among the best antivirus software available.
Scope of Protection
AVG Anti-Virus is fully armed to protect your computer from threats from a number of angles. The software includes antivirus and antispyware protection, as well as complete online protection from harmful sites and downloads.
AVG protects from hackers, phishing scams, adware and malware that come through email or IM. AVG even scans outbound email to make sure you don’t accidentally pass a virus along to others. And of course the software protects from other forms of malware, including worms, keyloggers, Trojans and rootkits.
AVG Anti-Virus has also upped their arsenal for online protection, using advanced shields to protect you from threats wherever they come from. The AVG Online Shield includes web security from viruses, spyware and even phishing attacks, as well as protection from files shared through IM chat. Basically, AVG is equipped to protect you from malicious files regardless of how they are sent, downloaded or accessed.
Effectiveness
AVG is perfectly adequate antivirus software, and is certainly effective. Their detection rates aren’t as impressive as some of the other antivirus software we reviewed, but the security software is by no means ineffective. Recent tests from AV-Comparatives, Virus Bulletin and others show that AVG uses one of the most effective antivirus scanners, and has pretty good performance. The one area where they struggle is in “overprotecting” at times, flagging safe files incorrectly (false positives).
AVG’s strength comes from the multiple layers and advanced technology they utilize. Their core scanning engine is great, but it’s also backed up by proactive heuristic detection, cloud security and the AVG Protection Network. The community network lets AVG take advantage of their user-base by collecting anonymous data to detect new threats and protect the entire community. Combined with proactive behavior analysis and realtime cloud antivirus protection, AVG Anti-Virus is robust and comprehensive.
Needless to say, you don’t need to worry about the effectiveness of AVG Anti-Virus.
Ease of Installation
AVG Anti-Virus is easy to download and install. The installation is straightforward and doesn’t require a restart. And while it’s not the fastest, it’s relatively quick and performs an update immediately. After the antivirus software is installed you can pretty much sit back and let it do its business.
During the installation you have the option to download the AVG internet toolbar and make Yahoo your default search engine, so if you’re not interested make sure to uncheck the boxes. The AVG browser toolbar is pretty nice though, featuring at-a-glance webpage security status, new mail notifications, a variety of shortcuts and more.
Ease of Use
AVG Anti-Virus is straightforward to use and simple to navigate. The streamlined user interface hasn’t dramatically changed for a couple of years (which isn’t a bad thing), but has been slightly updated, now including a one-click scan button and one-click fix button. Beginners and expert users will both appreciate the easy-to-use antivirus software with simple yet powerful controls. One thing that is noticeably missing from the scanning screen is a dynamic status bar to let you know how long that scan will take. Luckily most scans will occur in the background so you won’t care.
AVG utilizes optimized scanning to increase performance and overall efficiency. For starters, the antivirus software is designed to only scan files that have been changed, significantly speeding up scans by excluding known, trusted files.
AVG Anti-Virus also utilizes smart scanning to optimize your resources. When you are working on your PC, AVG de-prioritizes active scans so they won’t slow you down. When the antivirus software notices that your computer isn’t active, it takes advantage of the opportunity to use the resources while you’re away. Adding even more flexibility, you can manage the resources used dynamically during the scan, using a slider to control the priority of the scan.
Another new feature specifically designed to make the antivirus software easy to use is the AVG desktop gadget. The small widget/gadget docks on your desktop and provides quick access to scan or update and a simple overview of your security status.
Features
AVG Anti-Virus is loaded with features, including new tools that improve security and usability. Continuing from last year is the gamer mode, which allows you to enjoy full-screen games (or movies, presentations, etc.) without interruptions or popup announcements, and still maintain security.
AVG Anti-Virus even includes a PC system optimizer utility. The PC Analyzer scans your system and locates registry errors, junk files, disk errors and broken shortcuts. You can fix these issues, but note that you can only fix errors once for free. Subsequent use requires that you purchase AVG PC TuneUp.
Another great feature that only a few of the best antivirus software vendors have is internet link-scanning. AVG LinkScanner brings a whole new level of security to your online activities, and won't seriously impact your browsing speed. LinkScanner provides small color-coded security icons next to every search result from Google, Yahoo or Bing. These unobtrusive icons are provided in realtime and display an at-a-glance notice to let you know if each website is fine (green), bad (red) or should be approached with caution (orange). If you want more specific information, you can hover over any of the LinkScanner icons for more details.
New this year, AVG Anti-Virus also includes Social Networking Protection, an innovative tool that scans in real time any link shared on Facebook or MySpace.
Updates
Keeping your protection up to date with AVG Anti-Virus is no problem. Regular definition updates are checked for automatically and can be set to perform every hour (every 4 hours is the default). AVG’s new cloud antivirus technology also helps maintain to-the-minute protection as new threats are identified and the solution delivered almost immediately.
Help & Support
The support staff at AVG is anxious to help users with any problems they have with the antivirus software. In-program help is available with a user manual and links to additional resources online. The online support center has the usual FAQs section and knowledgebase. AVG offers email support for specific inquiries, but no phone support. More options and professional assistance with virus removal are available by paying for premium support.
Summary
AVG Anti-Virus has a robust set of features and a broad scope of protection, making it one of the best antivirus software applications we reviewed. The 2011 edition brings new features that improve the solution, and it maintains the level of protection and ease of use we’ve come to expect from AVG. We particularly liked the addition of cloud antivirus technology and the progressive web protection from LinkScanner. While not quite the overall best antivirus software, we can definitely recommend AVG Anti-Virus 2011.
Source: toptenreviews.com
Microsoft sued over Kinect for patent infringement
A Bay Village, Ohio, company has sued Microsoft for allegedly infringing on its patents with the rapidly selling Kinect motion-sensing video game controller.
Microsoft's Kinect for Xbox 360
Impulse Technology filed the suit in federal court in Delaware, accusing Microsoft and several game makers--including Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, and THQ--of violating patents related to, among other things, tracking and assessing movement skills in multidimensional space. The suit was filed on July 1, but was only recently written about by the Web site Law360.
Impulse claims that the Kinect violates seven patents, issued from 2001 to last year. In its suit, the company said it notified Microsoft in March about the patents. The suit does not mention if Microsoft replied to the notification. And Impulse's attorney did not return a call.
Microsoft declined to address the specific charges, but said it works hard to make sure its products don't violate patent holders' rights.
"While we can't comment about this specific case, Microsoft invests heavily in protecting our intellectual property rights and has hundreds of pending and issued patents covering Kinect," Kevin Kutz, director of public affairs at Microsoft, said in a statement.