Electronics
Security suite software
Introduction
We tested 25 security suite packages – including a free one – and found some good performers.
Any computer that connects to the internet needs some form of anti-malware (malicious software) protection. We tested security suites for computers running Windows as they’re more likely to be at threat, though Apples and computers operating on Linux are not entirely immune.
Find out which products we recommend in the battle to protect your computer.
Products we tested
This report contains test results and recommendations for the following security suites:
Our test
Each suite’s performance was tested by AV-Test labs (www.av-test.org), a world leader in security software testing. The focus was on detecting and removing malware (including viruses, Trojans and spyware) and actively preventing system attacks. The tests included:
- detecting web-based threats (via the browser)
- on-access scanning (as programs are loading)
- on-demand scanning (such as a system-wide scan)
- disinfection (including removal of residual files and rootkits)
- measuring the software’s impact on common tasks (like launching applications and copying files) and overall memory use.
To assess ease of use we looked at installation, updating of all major components, usefulness of any help files and documentation, training and running the spam filter, plus logging and alerts with the firewall. We also assessed ease of navigation for the various options of the suite, how informative popups and dialogs were, and how easy it was to configure settings and run a scan.
Checklist
Without security software your computer's in danger from hackers, viruses, spyware and spam. Data could be corrupted or destroyed, passwords or credit card numbers stolen from your system or your internet connection could be hijacked.
You need to protect your computer – either with a single product (a security suite) or a combination of separate products.
Suites vs individual components
The advantage of a security suite (one product running a number of anti-malware programs) is its ability to protect with just one product. A suite also reduces software conflicts between different programs. However, it can be let down by one poor component, and loading more software to fix this may conflict with the suite.
Choosing standalone components can require up to four products. There are free products, but you won't receive manufacturer support. The savings may be worth the hassle for intermediate or advanced users.
What to look for
If you're considering buying a security suite, here are the features to look for:
Update cost
Regular updating is essential. Updates can be downloaded from the manufacturer's website. Find out whether there's an extra cost for this. Some products offer free updates for the first year, then charge an annual fee. A few supply free updates indefinitely.
Blocking
- Pop-up blocking stops pop-up windows from loading. These windows often contain adware or viruses.
- Ad-blocking stops images and scripts typically used in advertising.
- Cookie-blocking stops small text files containing information being allowed into your computer.
Content filtering
Also known as parental control software, this allows websites to be blocked using whitelist, blacklist, or heuristic controls. For more information, see our test of net filtering software.
Identity theft and phishing protection
Phishing sites are designed to look like legitimate websites such as banks or online shops in the hope you will enter your credit card or bank details. Many security suites block sites known to be involved in phishing or identity theft.
Instant Messaging (IM) protection
Detects viruses contained in messages sent using tools such as Yahoo Messenger or MSN Messenger.
WiFi protection
Allows you to manage your wireless security and detect any unauthorised access. This feature may only work with certain brands and models of wireless routers.
Game mode
Allows playing games or viewing entertainment over the internet while maintaining security. This can activate automatically when launching an online service and does not interrupt or impact the service.
Help
Decide what level of support you need. Most security suites have comprehensive help functions, tutorials, and online assistance. But if things go wrong, is email contact enough or would you prefer personal assistance via a helpline? Don't assume a helpline is free, even if it uses an 0800 or 0508 number. You may have to pay for support and assistance.
Scan on install
Ideally, you'll be installing your new software on a virus-free and spyware-free computer. If not, look for software that scans your computer before it installs, or one that updates and scans immediately after installation.
Remote file check
Allows you to send a copy of a suspected infected file to the software developer's lab for diagnosis.
Scheduled scan
The software can be set to scan specified folders or files at regular times.
Archive scan
Downloaded files are often compressed or archived to save space. Archiving hides the properties of the threat the security software looks for. This special scan finds them.
System slowdown
Security suites are notorious for slowing down your computer – and some are worse than others. We hear of many consumers loading system-hungry security programs on to older machines that then grind to a standstill. Some users are so frustrated they end up removing the suite: that’s money down the drain and it exposes your computer to risk.
Before you buy:
- Check the suite's minimum system requirements. If your PC only just meets those, look for something else.
- Some manufacturers offer free downloadable limited-time trial versions. This can give a good indication of what effect the suite will have on your computer’s performance.
Security for Macs
While Windows computers are far more likely to be the target of malware than Apple Macs, there are still some nasties that can affect them. User error or phishing scams in particular can still expose Macs to potential danger. When set up correctly a Mac will require an administrator password before allowing changes to the system software. It is essential to only give permission when you know exactly what it is you are allowing and trust the source.
Moreover, Macs can pass on Windows viruses. We recommend tools such as the free Sophos Anti-Virus for Mac Home Edition to ensure that your computer doesn't become a carrier. Note that any Mac running Windows (via Boot Camp, Parallels Desktop or VMware Fusion), will need Windows security protection just as if it was a PC.
The basics
Before you invest in security software make sure make sure all other software on your computer has the latest updates and patches. For example, Microsoft releases security patches on the second Tuesday of each month (called Patch Tuesday) and your system should automatically download these.
Remember that most malware is transmitted via email attachments or by following unsafe links. Don't get caught out by scammers. Banks and other financial institutions such as Paypal won’t send emails requiring you to click links to change your profile details. If in doubt, access your account by following an existing bookmark or by typing the URL.
Technical terms
Here's some security terminology you may come across:
Adware: software that delivers advertisements on your computer.
Boot virus: affects the Master Boot Record of a hard disc, where information about the drive is stored (when you boot from the infected disc, the virus loads before the operating system does).
Botnet: short for bot network, also known as a "zombie army" – it’s a collection of infected internet-connected computers running unauthorised automated software (called robots or bots) that can distribute spam and viruses and launch attacks on computers or networks.
Firewall: a software program and/or hardware device that limits outside network access to a computer by blocking or restricting entrances (ports) to your computer.
Malware: a generic term for unwanted software that secretly executes unwanted actions.
On-access scanning: constant monitoring of a computer’s memory and file system that activates automatically and scans any file (as it’s opened, closed or moved) to detect virus activity before it can infect the system.
On-demand scanning: scanning of selected files as required by a user.
Phishing: attempts to lure users to reveal credit card details, account passwords and personal information by pretending to be an email from a trusted financial institution or service.
Port: a virtual opening into your computer through which information can pass in and out. Used for communicating over the internet. Port can also refer to a physical connection point for attaching devices.
Quarantine: the isolation of files suspected to contain a virus, so that they can't be opened or activated.
Rootkits: programs that conceal malicious code’s access to files, folders and registry keys (they also make programs, system services, drivers and network connections invisible to the user).
Spam: unsolicited (junk) email distributed on a large scale and often part of a scam.
Spyware: software that secretly gathers information about a user from a computer.
Trojan: a malicious program hidden in a benign application. Often used by hackers to enable access to the victim’s computer.
Virus: a software program, script, or macro that has been designed to infect, destroy, modify, or cause other problems with a computer or software program.
Report by Hadyn Green.