Internet Security Software FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Internet Security Software

    What are viruses and how do I protect my computer against them?

    Viruses are computer programs that infect a computer and then multiply by infecting other computers connected to the original target. Viruses can be passed through a computer network, the Internet or email. Some viruses damage the infected computer by erasing files or whole hard drives. Others may provide even more sinister risks, extracting the victim's personal information for criminal use or identity theft.

    Most viruses can be identified, blocked and eradicated by a good anti-virus program. All of the Internet security software programs we have reviewed offer anti-virus protection that can help prevent dangerous computer viruses from infecting your PC.

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Top Security Software

Symantec's Norton Internet Security 2013

Bottom line: The best at protecting you and your computer. Updates include a vastly improved performance and several features to make things easier on the user.
BitDefender Internet Security 2013

Bottom line: Everything security software should be: quiet, effective, with all the features you need (but never knew you needed)
Kaspersky Internet Security 2013

Bottom line: Slick, essential new features added on to last year's major update, making this one of the best security software suites of 2013
Avast! Internet Security 7

Bottom line: Fast, affordable and easy to use with a slew of great features. Best bargain for smart security software.
Eset Smart Security 5

Bottom line: If you aren't in to all the bells and whistles and just want the simplest security software that will protect your computer, ESET is your best bet.
McAfee Internet Security 2013

Bottom line: Standard PC security with the same interface and features as the previous version
Webroot SecureAnywhere Complete 2013

Bottom line: Good product for those just looking for the basic protection. Easy install, simple interface and quick performance.
ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 2012

Bottom line: Full-featured, low-fuss improvement to previous ZoneAlarm software; good value, but hard to measure effectiveness
Trend Micro Internet Security 2013

Bottom line: Best bet for users looking for quality, inexpensive software. New features up the software's game.
Iolo's System Shield 4

Bottom line: Inexpensive, reliable software with a cool detection feature. Confusing interface and difficult installation downgrades its score. Discount for NextAdvisor readers.
AVG Internet Security

Bottom line: Good security software if you are looking for all the bells and whistles at half the price.
PC Tools

Bottom line: PC Tools Internet Security has a nice user interface and is easy to use, but it under-delivers on consistency and performance
CA Internet Security Suite Plus 2010

Bottom line: Simple interface but poorly implemented; frequent crashes, indiscriminate program blocking

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