How to Get the Best Antivirus and Security Software for Your Computer
An incredible number of antivirus and Internet security software programs are available on the market. Some of these software programs require you to pay a license fee and an antivirus definition subscription. Other antivirus and Internet security software programs are free, but their features and the way you're allowed to use them may be limited. When searching for an antivirus or security software program, you have to do your homework to find the one that's best for you.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Determine your budget for security software. If you don't feel you have enough money to pay for antivirus software and your computer is for personal use only, consider getting a free antivirus software program such as Avast! or AVG. If you want free antivirus or security software for your business, try a business-focused program such as Comodo Internet Security or PC Tools AntiVirus. However, if you can afford between $30 and $60 per year for software and a subscription to antivirus definition updates, think about buying antivirus or security software from a company such as Symantec or McAfee.
-
2
Look at the system requirements for the software. If you have a new computer, chances are you can run the latest version of a company's antivirus or Internet security software. However, if your computer at least 5 years old or if you have a slow processor and little random access memory, there's a good chance that contemporary security software won't run properly on your computer. Many paid antivirus and security software programs are resource hogs and may crash your computer even if you do have the minimum system requirements to run them. If you are concerned about system resources, free antivirus software is a better solution, since free software is usually lightweight.
-
-
3
Read online reviews of the antivirus and security software you are considering. Many websites carry software reviews, including PCMag.com, CNET, ConsumerSearch and Epinions. Look for antivirus and Internet security software that works quietly in the background to protect your computer from malware threats.
-
4
Download and install an evaluation version of the antivirus or security software you'd like to try. Make a point to use all of its features within the free trial period. Make notes about how well the software performed and how you liked its features. When the trial period ends, uninstall the program and install one from a different company. Use a free online virus scanner to see whether each program missed any viruses.
-
5
Compare the features and performance of the antivirus and security software programs. Use the program that does the best job of protecting your computer with the fewest problems.
-
1
