Best Computer Security Software

Check out the license or warranty provided with security software. Some programs can only be used on 1 PC, so if you have multiple computers, buy smart and purchase a security program which provides multiple licenses. Keeping such points in mind, below is a round-up of some of the best computer security software 2011 models.


Best Computer Security Software - Suite

I. Kaspersky PURE

• Complete protection suite with antivirus, data protection and parental control functions
• Defends your PC against the very worst of viruses, worms and malware
• Easy and simple installation and usage through interface with central management
• Can backup and restore data
• Data Encryption feature encrypts your sensitive data for maximum security
• Extra tough with password protection, even collects and stores passwords on your pen drive
• Parental control feature allows monitoring and blocking of Web sites and access, even with social networking sites
• Comes in 1 and 2 year licenses
• Comes with 1, 3 or 5 PCs licenses
• Compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP SP3
• Price: $100

II. Norton 360™ Version 5.0

• Suite designed for protection against viruses, phishing and online activities
• Backup your important data of up to 2 GB limit
• Handles your online privacy with emphasis on social networking activities
• Norton Safe Web Social Media Scanner checks for security threats on your Facebook profile
• Very PC friendly - proactive performance alerts and carries out auto PC tuneup
• Parental control ability included with updated monitoring
• Available in 1, 2 and 3 year licenses
• Can be purchased for 1 and 5 PCs usage
• Compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP SP2 or higher
• Price: $60

Best Computer Security Software - Standalone

I. BitDefender Antivirus Pro 2011

• Deals with antivirus/anti-spyware/anti-phishing/chat encryption functions
• Search Advisor feature warns of suspicious sites in your Google or Yahoo! Search toolbar results
• Choose between Beginner, Intermediate or Expert settings and functions
• Easy UI with video help and how-to's for becoming familiar with the system
• Modes such as Laptop or Silent Mode for helpful usage of resources
• Smart Scan and Smart Schedule for optimum performance at minimal system load
• Manages all computers connected to home network from 1 machine
• Purchase 1, 3 and 5 PCs license for usage on multiple computers
• Comes with 1, 2 and 3 years warranty
• Compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP SP2
• Price: $40

For users of the Mac OS, check out BitDefender Antivirus for Mac

II. Microsoft Security Essentials

• Free standalone antivirus software
• Scanning modes include Quick, Full and Custom
• Choose which language and just download and install
• Easy and simple to use interface, with color coded security level indicators
• Runs quietly in background with minimal system load
• Features include rootkit (type of malware) protection and network inspection system
• Compatible with Windows 7, Vista (SP1 and SP2) and XP SP3
• Will work with only genuine Windows OS models

III. G Data AntiVirus 2012

• Standalone antivirus/email/chatting/spyware/online shopping scanning system
• Even when your PC is idle or not used, Idle Scan feature scans PC for viruses
• Very effective and up-to-date on handling different types of viruses
• Analysis of risky files or suspected virus containing data, is carried out through cloud system
• All programs combined in the G Data Security Center
• Comes with 1 year license and free trial version
• Compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP SP2
• Price: $30

IV. Trend Micro™ Titanium™ Antivirus +

• Functions as antivirus/anti-spyware software system
• Effective but easy to use system with one-stop center for all activities
• Uses cloud technology to update itself with latest virus info
• Real-time antivirus scanning
• Graphic and detailed security reports with each scan
• Minimal load on PC
• Comes with 1 year license for either 1 or 3 PCs
• Compatible with Windows 7, Vista and XP SP3
• Price: $40

V. ProtectMac AntiVirus

• Specifically designed for the Mac OS
• File-access scanner runs in background, tracking each file activity and displaying any threats to security
• User friendly and streamlined UI, designed to fit in with Mac OS design
• FileSafe feature allows you to exclude or cut out certain files from being scanned every time
• Adaptive Intelligent Scanning feature monitors and watches your favorite files and data and makes them a security priority
• Diverse range of scans, scheduled or planned, scanning of removable devices and real-time access scans
• Auto updates itself and keeps its threat knowledge and database up-to-date
• Compatible with Mac OS X 10.4.7 and higher versions
• 1 purchased license covers 3 separate Mac machines
• Price: $45

Having a software smart enough to auto update and keep itself savvy with the latest threats as well providing an easy interface for communication, is the key to the success and efficiency of any computer security program. Seen but not heard or running quietly in the background, like some silent bodyguard are features prized in antivirus programs. The list of "best computer security software" models never stays constant, as the competition in this market is fierce as each manufacturer is always trying to improve on the existing feature set and functions. The more programs available, the more options us consumers have to choose from and be selective with!


by lerski mejia