NOD AntiVirusNOD32 earns accolades from users and experts for effectiveness and performance. Reports say that software conflicts are rare and that the program won't noticeably slow down your computer. Virus protection is first-rate according to tests. The user interface notably improved in the previous version, and version 4 brings further improvements, making NOD32 easy to use. Unlike most antivirus software, user reaction and satisfaction is very positive.
Best antivirus software
- Excels at preventing viruses
- Low system drain
- No software conflicts
- Improved user interface
- Doesn't include firewall protection
- Relatively expensive
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AVG AntiVirusProfessional reviewers conclude that AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition is the best of the free antivirus programs, and it is handily the most popular as well. No substantial reviews compare free and commercial programs, but reviews of the commercial version of AVG provide one yardstick. That program fares poorly when compared with Norton and NOD32, among others. AVG and other free programs offer much less user control than commercial programs, but users swear they work. If you're diligent and careful about your personal security practices, free antivirus software might be enough.
Free Antivirus Software
- Free
- More effective than other free software
- Not as customizable as paid antivirus programs
- No tech support
Norton AntivirusSecurity suites bundle antivirus and anti-spyware software, a firewall and other components into a single program. Reviewers like Norton's Internet Security 2009's new simplified interface and the fact that most operations occur seamlessly in the background. User reviews indicate that it's quick to install with minimal impact on system performance. The biggest advantage of using a security suite instead of separate antivirus, firewall, anti-spyware and other security applications is that the potential for software conflicts is eliminated. However, reviewers note that Norton is best used as a standalone application; users report conflicts with other brands of security software.
Security suite with antivirus software
- Excellent virus detection
- Fast and easy to use
- Free online support
- Suite minimizes conflicts with other security programs
- Poor anti-spam performance
- Frustrating technical support
- Parental control is a separate download
