So, you have just bought a computer and are trying to decide what anti-malware or anti-virus software you need to acquire to be fully protected. Well, the following are some factors that I’ve found useful when looking for the right malware protection:
Anti-Malware Software Capabilities to Consider
1 – Anti-Malware Software Speed
A common complaint from computer users when using anti-malware software is that it slows their computer down too much. Due to this loss of efficiency, many computer users will turn off their anti-malware software. With the number of threats on the Internet, this is not the optimal choice to make. Why not, choose anti-malware software that is reviewed to run faster than their competitors one of the factors you consider in your decision making process for the software purchase?
2 – Anti-Spam Features
Not all anti-malware software has anti-spam features incorporated into the software. If you do not already have anti-spam protection built in to your email service (think Gmail), then this should be another feature to look for in your anti-virus software.
3 – Anti- Spyware Features
Similar to anti-spam features, not all anti-malware software has anti-spyware capability built in to it. Or, if it does, it is not effective. This can give you a false sense of security. Spyware is just as important as other malware to defend against. Ensure you are making an informed decision when making your software purchase.
4 – Firewall Capability
If you run Microsoft Windows XP SP2 or newer (Vista, Windows 7) then you have a firewall capability bundled with your computer. Don’t spend extra money on a third party firewall unless you have tried the Microsoft variant first! (it’s free) If you are an anti-Microsoft type of computer user or just don’t like their free firewall, then ensure you consider anti-malware products that bundle a firewall with the software package.
5 – Ease of Installation
Not everyone is trained in Information Technology or Computer Science. If a software manufacturer can’t make software that my Dad can install with no more than a few clicks, then the installation is too complex. What are the odds you will miss a critical configuration option that can expose you to attack? If you’re a power computer user, then this becomes less of an issue.
6 – Parental controls
With the number of malware and computer viruses spreading via peer-2-peer networks now-a-days, this is becoming an increasingly popular feature for parents when choosing anti-malware software. The anti-malware companies are slowly realizing this, so you may still have limited options when searching for tools that have quality reviews for parental controls.
7 – Cost
In down economic times, we are all looking to save money. You can find some good tools that are free, or have trial versions you can use, however, I always say you “get what you pay for.” If you are on the Internet a lot (or you children are), get decent anti-malware protection! Its hard to put a price on safety…especially when it runs less than $100 USD for a decent product!
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