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- Introduction{1 mention}
- Top Antivirus Software{7 mentions}{1 mention}{7 mentions}{2 mentions}
- Internet Security Suites{1 mention}{6 mentions}{1 mention}{2 mentions}{1 mention}
- Free Antivirus Software{2 mentions}{1 mention}
- Mac and Linux AV software{1 mention}{1 mention}{1 mention}{2 mentions}
- Useful Links
- Our Sources
Links to additional resources are provided by ConsumerSearch, which also rates and ranks the most effective antivirus software in reviews.
To complete your Internet security protection, experts say you should also use a firewall. This is especially important for computers that have a broadband Internet connection that is always on. Firewalls protect your connection from hackers and identity thieves who want to access your personal information or hijack your computer. See our separate report on firewalls for more information.
Experts also say you need a tool to detect and remove spyware. Spyware are small programs that are installed on your system when you visit disreputable Internet sites. Spyware track your computing behavior and can serve targeted advertising to your system. Most antivirus programs protect against spyware, but reviewers say additional anti-spyware tools are necessary. See our anti-spyware report for more details.
Spam filters and parental controls are optional. Spam filters attempt to sift the good email from the bad. Parental controls allow parents to set restrictions for their children's Internet use, including blocking inappropriate websites, creating usage logs and preventing kids from entering personal data or credit card information online. Spam filters and parental controls are included as part of an Internet security suite. However, the best products are available as standalone applications. See our reports on spam filters and parental control software.
If you need two or three components, consider an Internet security suite, which bundles all of this software together, letting you use a single interface for controlling settings. An Internet security suite costs less than buying each component separately. See our report on Internet security software.
Techlicious.com has a detailed buyer's guide for antivirus and computer security software. The author discusses what components you need and the differences between free and paid software.
Mary Landesman, the antivirus software guide at About.com, discusses what you need to know before you buy antivirus software. (Note: ConsumerSearch is owned by About.com, but the two don't share an editorial affiliation.)
CNET's Computer and Internet Security section provides the latest news about antivirus software and malware.
West Coast Labs, one of the top antivirus testing organizations, has a helpful malware glossary that explains the different types of security threats.
Wilders Security Forum, an online security and privacy organization, has a bulletin board with useful posts.
GetSafeOnline.com offers tips for safe surfing.
Gigaom.com looks at security threats facing Mac computers and whether you need to purchase antivirus software.
Linux.com discusses security issues on Linux systems and the pros and cons of antivirus software.
Antivirus software brands
ESET (NOD32)
Symantec (Norton)
Check Point (ZoneAlarm)
