Choosing the Perfect Antivirus Software

Written by Jason P. Hartz

As the number of known viruses that proliferates the internet expand, any antivirus software gradually becomes a standard component of a computer system. With the increasing demand for antivirus software comes the dilemma of an average computer user in choosing the perfect solution to the threat of viruses, spams and malwares. There are factors to consider in choosing the right antivirus software for your computer. The first thing to think about is whether or not to get standalone antivirus software or security suite. Most sophisticated users and computer hobbyists would opt to purchase separate commercial standalone antivirus software and match it with a separate spyware remover, registry cleaner, firewall, e-mail scanner, and spam filter. The reason lies on the assumption that there is a vendor expert on each of the abovementioned tasks. Of course, this is more costly as compared to buying a security suite which is like an all-in-one package for your security and privacy needs. The drawback with security is suite is that sometimes, although the antivirus software is good, other components of the package are not as good as the other ones you can purchase separately. Aside from that, features such as e-mail scanners are usually available for free. On the other hand, the interface of security suites is more user-friendly than standalone antivirus software, which is what draws an average computer user to buying it. Aside from its being user-friendly and easy to set up, you have to choose antivirus software that offers free technical support. AVG Antivirus has an e-mail support feature as well as a website and forum that cater to an average computer user. The best thing to find out if a certain antivirus software is reliable and effective is to check out reviews of some trusted software websites such as Cnet.com. There are also special agencies that test the efficiency of most antivirus softwares in the market. One of these agencies, is AV-Test.org that performs an extensive testing of antivirus softwares following a standardized criteria. You also have to make sure that the antivirus software you purchase regularly updates its virus definition. Virus definitions have to be regularly updated to make sure that your antivirus software knows what to detect. It is also important to have these updates downloaded automatically for your convenience. Viruses can enter your computer in millisecond and to avoid this, there should not be any time wasted the moment you go online. In relation to that, your antivirus software has to have an automatic scanning feature to ensure that your computer is free from any virus or malware. There is nothing wrong with doing manual scanning but people often times tend to forget what automatic scanning regularly does. Other features that suits your computing lifestyle has to be considered, too. If you have a lower end computer, then you might want to get standalone antivirus software if you don’t need any of the additional protection that would surely add up to its cost. Otherwise, get a security suite that can give you the best possible software feature. Before purchasing antivirus software, make sure that you are getting what it promises in exchange of your hard-earned money. Remember that antivirus software has to be continuously updated to remain effective. If that is not the case, then might as well drop the idea of paying for it. New versions of software have to be purchased annually to get the best protection your computer needs. For best buys, make use of the antivirus software’s limited free trial to see for yourself.