BitDefender Total Security

Bottom Line

BitDefender Total Security (*Est. $30 for 3 PCs) contains all the security features of BitDefender's highly rated Internet Security Suite with some added extras, notably an anti-theft function, Safebox for secure online storage of files (comes with 2 GB of hosted storage space), a file shredder (permanent deletion) and an extensive tune-up tool to keep your computer running optimally. Total Security achieves excellent results in all the protection tests thrown at it, but its computer scans and cleanup processes are reported to be slower than that of Norton 360.

Ease of Use

Straightforward interface. Based on BitDefender Internet Security 2013, BitDefender Total Security has the same ease of use for both beginners and more advanced users. The signature AutoPilot feature allows novices to install and run the software without adjusting any settings, just needing to decide which modules to run. Navigating the interface is straightforward for all the functions, including the features exclusive to BitDefender Total Security, and managing all your security services through the MyBitDefender portal also makes life easier. Advanced users can dig deep into the Performance Optimizer tool to see how the computer system and resources are performing over time and to optimize the system.

Features

Excellent Tune-up tool. BitDefender Total Security contains all the features of BitDefender Internet Security 2013 plus some extras, including a robust tune-up tool. You can still manage all your BitDefender services and apps for your PC and mobile devices from the MyBitDefender portal. The Safepay feature provides a secure space for financial transactions, and Safego gives protection for your social media networks. An additional tool in Total Security is Safebox, a secure encrypted online "vault" in which you can place sensitive files, backup or otherwise. Along with this is a file shredder feature, which completely destroys your files. Safebox comes with 2 GB of free hosted online space for your files.

Total Security's tune-up tool goes beyond the usual features of defragmentation and cleanup found in other premium security suites. For instance, the registry cleaner presents a list from which you can filter the files you want cleaned up, and if you make a wrong choice, you can always revert to the pre-cleanup state. There's also a duplicate file finder that identifies the same file stored multiple times and offers to wipe out all but one version. The final extra feature is a device anti-theft option, which can remotely lock or locate your laptop and can even wipe it clean if it's been stolen.

Performance

Accurate but not the fastest. The speed and protection levels of BitDefender Total Security are the same as for BitDefender Internet Security 2013. Running this premium suite software won't noticeably slow down your computer's startup and shutdown times, though some reviewers state that scanning for viruses "isn't the quickest we've seen," and that it takes a significant amount of time to clean up and repair any damage done. In tests at the well-respected labs of AV-Test, BitDefender Internet Security 2013 earns excellent ratings across the board.