Virus Scanners Test

"Norton AntiVirus for Mac"

Issue: 5/2008

On test: Symantec AntiVirus for Mac

It's fair to say the greatest security threat to Mac users isn't a virus - it's complacency. While the platform is currently infertile ground for virus authors, that may not always be the case, and Macs can still act as carriers of PC viruses. Norton AntiVirus, abandoning its version number and freshly updated for Mac OS X 10.5, is a polished way to protect against unforeseen viruses.

"Webroot Spysweeper with AV 5.5 security software"

Published on: 12/2007

On test: Webroot Software Spy Sweeper With AntiVirus 5.5

There are two main threats to an internet-connected computer: viruses and spyware. The latter is now taken seriously as the most serious security threat because it can return information to its authors or even take control of a PC, and it’s more attractive to criminals because it can make money for them. Webroot is well known for its anti-spyware product, Spysweeper, which is now available with added antivirus in a package called, unsurprisingly, Spysweeper with AV 5.5.

"Norton AntiVirus 2008"

Published on: 10/2007

On test: Symantec Norton AntiVirus 2008

As before, Norton AntiVirus 2008 remains purely a malware defence and hence offers protection against viruses, spyware and worms, whether they are browser- or email- or IM-borne. It now runs on XP or Vista only - if you have earlier Windows OS’s, Norton AntiVirus 2008 isn’t for you.

"Symantec Norton Antibot security software"

Published on: 9/2007

On test: Symantec Norton Antibot

Despite Symantec having a supposedly all-encompassing security suite in the form of Norton 360, the same company has now released an additional tool called Antibot.

"ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 7.1 security software"

Published on: 9/2007

On test: Zonelabs ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite 7.1

ZoneAlarm has built a reputation as one of the best software firewalls available, partly because it has since 1999 offered a simple firewall that's free personal use. The ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite builds on the firewall to add anti-virus and anti-spyware tools, protection spam and phishing, online privacy (which claims to make the user ‘invisible’ on the internet), identity protection, instant messaging security and parental control.