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Internet Security Software FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Internet Security Software

    What do the three-star ratings for "malware and antivirus" and "system performance" mean?

    These are derived from tests by AV-Comparatives, an independent antivirus testing company. Test participation is voluntary, and based only on each company's simple antivirus product. The full Internet security suites we review usually contain additional security features and safeguards. The malware/antivirus score shows a simple average of scores from six tests, with three stars being the best. System performance is based on a single test. We suggest readers view the individual testing tables in each review to see the score distribution.

    Return to Internet Security Software FAQs


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Top Security Software

Symantec's Norton Internet Security 2012
Rating:
Go to Site | Review

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.
Kaspersky Internet Security 2012
Rating:
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Bottom line: A vast improvement in its interface, installation and performance make Kaspersky a best bet for those who are looking for easy, fast, top-notch security.
Avast! Internet Security
Rating:
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Bottom line: Fast, affordable and easy to use. Best for users who want a simple, user-friendly interface. Discount for NextAdvisor users.
BitDefender
Rating:
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Bottom line: For those who want top-rated protection without the interruptions. New features help improve performance and give users a few more options for security.
Eset Smart Security 5
Rating:
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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 Total Protection 2012
Rating:
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Bottom line: Standard PC security with a few new features that could turn heads; exclusive $20 discount
Webroot SecureAnywhere Complete 2012
Rating:
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Bottom line: Good product for those just looking for the basic protection. Easy install, simple interface and quick performance.
ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 2012
Rating:
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Bottom line: Full-featured, low-fuss improvement to previous ZoneAlarm software; good value, but hard to measure effectiveness
Trend Micro Internet Security 2012
Rating:
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Bottom line: Best bet for users looking for quality, inexpensive software. New features up the software's game.
Iolo's System Shield 4
Rating:
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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
Rating:
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Bottom line: Good security software if you are looking for all the bells and whistles at half the price.
PC Tools
Rating:
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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
Rating:
Go to Site | Review

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

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