ESET NOD32 Antivirus
- Excels at preventing viruses
- Low system drain
- Few software conflicts
- Improved user interface
- Doesn't include firewall protection
Though earlier releases of ESET NOD32 were widely criticized for their confusing interface, reviewers say the most recent versions -- including version 4.2 -- are vastly improved. Computer experts say NOD32 offers great protection, no system drain and no software conflicts. User satisfaction with this program is much higher than with its antivirus competitors. Despite NOD32's improved user friendliness, some reviewers say other programs, such as Norton AntiVirus 2011 (Discontinued), are a better choice for beginners or people who want the simplest possible user experience. Although ESET NOD32 doesn't include a firewall, the latest versions do include anti-spyware protection.
Scientific testing sites such as Virus Bulletin and CheckVir.com are the best places to learn about the effectiveness of ESET NOD32 antivirus software. Download.com provides a cursory review as well as user ratings of NOD32 Antivirus 4.2. Blogger Michael Aulia provides a more in-depth report based on the beta version of the program.
Our Sources
1. Virus Bulletin
To receive certification from Virus Bulletin, an antivirus program must detect all viruses "during both on-demand and on-access scanning," according to the website. ESET NOD32 passes all 2010 tests.
Review: VB100 Results, Editors of Virus Bulletin
2. CheckVir.com
CheckVir.com tests antivirus programs against nearly 1,000 common threats. This table summarizes CheckVir.com's testing results for the last five years. ESET NOD32 has been tested 60 times, and has never failed to gain certification.
Review: Certification Results, Editors of CheckVir.com
3. MichaelAulia.com
Blogger Michael Aulia is a fan of ESET NOD32 because it is effective and doesn't seriously impact computer performance. He reports that version 4 -- even when it was still in beta -- continues in that tradition.
Review: Thumbs Up for ESET NOD32 Version 4 Public Beta 1, Michael Aulia, Jan. 8, 2009
4. Download.com
Seth Rosenblatt has a favorable, though brief review of ESET's NOD32 Antivirus 4.2. Most user ratings here are positive. At the time of our last visit, NOD32 had accumulated nearly 800 ratings, and a solid 4 stars out of a possible 5 overall.
Review: ESET NOD32 Antivirus 4.2.67, Seth Rosenblatt, March 6, 2009
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