Security packages

[johntywino]

Hi, My Norton 2010 security package ends in a couple of weeks..It seems to do a lot,only I don't really understand what it actually DOES. I have just been reading up on AVG (at $55 compared to Norton at $70) and it sounds as if it is faster and possibly even better than Norton. I am NOT looking for the free versions as they haven't got sufficient cover....Has anyone experience of the above two, and which one would they reccommend? Thanks in advance, John

[Elmek]

John, have a look here
http://www.matousec.c...challenge/results.php
Its all a matter of personal choice but these guys seem to know what they`re on about
hope it helps

[Buenchico]

You state that the free versions "haven't got sufficient cover". That's only partially true.

A good security system requires three main components. These are a decent firewall, anti-virus software and anti-malware software. The commercial products from Norton and McAfee (among others) are suites of programs, containing all three elements. You're completely correct in suggesting that AVG Free Edition won't replace the entire suite, since it only performs one of the three functions, but you can 'top it up' with other free software.

Windows (from XP onwards) has its own firewall but it's less than perfect. Many people prefer to use the free versions of either Zone Alarm or Comodo. (So that's one of the three security components taken care of, without spending a penny).

Next you need some anti-virus software. AVG Free Edition is the most popular but the free version of Avira also has plenty of fans. (So that's the second step taken care of, also free of charge).

Lastly you require some anti-adware/anti-malware software. You can choose between (or use all of) the free versions of Ad-Aware, SpyBot Search & Destroy and Malwarebytes.

You've then created the ecessary suite of programs without any outlay whatsoever.

If you insist upon buying a commercial product, avoid Norton and McAfee (which both have a reputation for being 'resource hungry', resulting in your computer running slowly). Kaspersky is much better.

Chris

[VHG]

>avoid Norton which both which both have a reputation for being 'resource hungry'

I think you need to stop spreading this out of date information.

While it was true in the past Norton is now much leaner and is no longer resource hungry.

PC Pro reviewed a load of security suites recently (see their web site) and Norton came out top.

[AlBags]

Correct ... Norton 2010 is one of the best around now. Been rewritten and consumes very small amount or resources and memory.
It also stops smss fake virus easily, unlike free AVG, which has infected 3 PC's I know of recently.

[johntywino]

Thanks everyone...very interesting!

[AlBags]

I have bought three subs recently for friends on ebay.
2010 NAV only ...

Approximately 14-16 quid for up to 3x PC's, 2 years subscription. So that is £7-8 per year for 3x PC's!
Retail version not important, just get a download or OEM. Very little probs with it, and plenty of support on forums.