Security Latest software reviews (Security > Windows): Softonic Reviews and free software downloads for Windows, Mac, Palm, Pocket PC, and Mobile Phones. The best programs and games. Buy software directly online. Mon, 07 Jul 2008 01:51:04 +0100 es-es http://en.softonic.com/images/softonic_xml.gif rss_img_description http://en.softonic.com/images/softonic_xml.gif http://en.softonic.com/ http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss <![CDATA[ Kaspersky Internet Security 2009 8.0.0.357 - A fully integrated solution that protects your computer ]]> http://kaspersky-internet-security.en.softonic.com

Kaspersky® Internet Security 7.0 provides you with the same proven anti-virus protection as Kaspersky Anti-Virus together with additional features including Parental Control, a personal firewall, an anti-spam filter, Privacy Control and more.


Product Highlights

  • Integrated protection from all Internet threats
  • Integrated antivirus protection: 1) Hourly automated database updates, 2) Preliminary behavior analysis, 3) On-going behavior analysis. New!
  • Real-time scanning for email, Internet traffic and files
  • Personal firewall with an IDS / IPS system. Improved!
  • Protection from leaks of confidential data. New!
  • Parental Control. New!
  • Protection from spam and phishing
  • Automatic database updates


Additional Features

  • Protection from viruses, Trojans and worms
  • Protection from spyware and adware
  • Protection from all types of keyloggers. Improved!
  • Detection of all types of rootkits. Improved!
  • Protection from viruses when using ICQ and other IM clients
  • Rollback of malicious changes on your PC
  • Self-defense of the antivirus program from being disabled or stopped
  • Tools for creating a Rescue Disk
  • Free technical support

Download Kaspersky Internet Security 2009 8.0.0.357 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ PC Tools Firewall Plus 4.0.0.35 - Protect your PC from intruders and malicious network traffic ]]> http://pc-tools-firewall-plus.en.softonic.com

PC Tools Firewall Plus sits between your computer and your Internet connection, controlling both downloading and uploading traffic and warning you whenever it detects unexpected Internet access or traffic in either direction.

This firewall is surprisingly easy to use; you can start right away, without having to configure anything, something that beginners will be grateful for. These novice users will also be happy to see that the basic functionality of PC Tools Firewall Plus can be tweaked in terms of approved or blocked programs, in the Applications area. However, if you prefer to have more control over the program, you can always use the Advanced Rules section. There's also the possibility to switch between Normal user and Expert user, either during installation or in the program's configuration menu. In this way advanced users will get more detailed messages from the firewall and will also be able to tweak it further.

The program logs all network activities, as well as the number of packets and bytes blocked. But there's one thing I missed: the possibility of having several security levels (like in ZoneAlarm, for example) with which you can quickly change the program's settings.

All the functions in PC Tools Firewall Plus are easily accessible in the firewall's eye-catching interface, just by clicking on their correspondent buttons on the left side. The main window features direct access buttons to the most important areas in the program as well.

With PC Tools Firewall Plus both novice and advanced users can effectively protect their computers by choosing which apps should access the Internet and also blocking any unauthorized attemps to break into your PC.

Download PC Tools Firewall Plus 4.0.0.35 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Kaspersky Anti-Virus 8.0.0.357 - Combines reactive detection methods with the latest proactive technologies ]]> http://kaspersky-anti-virus.en.softonic.com

Antivirus tools are the kind of software applications that you need to use for an extended period of time in order to fully test them. Still, having only a few hours to try Kaspersky Anti-Virus, I must say I got a really positive impression.

After a slightly troublesome installation process which included the eventual uninstalling of other antivirus apps plus an updating process, you're ready to launch Kaspersky and let it take care of your computer. In fact, it monitors not only the file system, but also email and web browsing, thus providing you with a comprehensive security solution that will keep you safe from today's most usual dangers on the Web.

Kaspersy features several different scanning modes (Critical areas, My computer, Startup objects and Rootkit scan). Each one of them can be run manually or programmed to run according to a certain period of time. You can also define your own scan mode and set an exception list for those files, folders and apps that you trust and needn't be scanned. One thing I particularly liked is the possibility to create a rescue disk, in case your PC is completely ruined by a virus attack.

Kaspersky seems very light on resources, which is always good in a program that you must have constantly running. However, files and apps may take slightly more time to open while Kaspersky analyzes them. I guess this is a small price we have to pay for being a bit more secure. In any case, you may as well use the exception list and make sure all your trusted apps are included there.

Kaspersky Anti-Virus offers a complete protection against virus, Trojans and worms for your file system, email and web browsing.

Download Kaspersky Anti-Virus 8.0.0.357 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware 1.19 - Detect and eliminate malware ]]> http://malwarebytes-anti-malware.en.softonic.com

In the ever increasing battle against malware, you can never have too many good malware removers and detectors. Malwarebytes Anti Malware scans disks and devices connected to your PC and removes all types of malware.

The program is constantly updated with a list of the latest known malware threats across the net so you'll always be fully covered although the update prompts can be annoying and should be switched off. They may also slow down your PC momentarily but it's worth it to keep up to date. The program cannot be schedule to offer real time protection bit it can scan your system at any time. There is also a list for the files in quarantine and one for those which can be ignored. If an infected file is detected, the programs "Fileassassin" can be launched although use it with caution because it is potent and you may end up deleting essential drivers and files.

If you want realtime protection, you can register online although you'll have to pay for this service.

A powerful and quick scanner but it's a shame there's no realtime protection with it.

Download Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware 1.19 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Lock My PC 4.7 - Keep your computer safe from unwanted users ]]> http://lock-my-pc.en.softonic.com

Lock My PC is an easy to use and compact tool for quick computer locking when you leave it unattended. It shows a lock screen, disables Windows hot keys and the mouse. You can lock your PC with a hotkey or from the system tray. To unlock the computer you must enter correct password only. The program can log invalid password entry attempts and has option to keep your PC locked even if power failure occurs or someone switches it off and on.

Download Lock My PC 4.7 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ SpyBot Search & Destroy 1.5.2 - Detect and remove spyware of different kinds from your computer ]]> http://spybot-search-destroy.en.softonic.com

A smart freeware program that can clear all forms of mal-ware from your computer. Spybot S&D is a powerful application that offers a default mode and an advanced mode.

When you install this program, you are immediately given the choice to update, which is of course all important when dealing with the various forms of spyware that you want to be protected from. Unfortunately, when updating, progress can seem rapid and then stop for no apparent reason, for several minutes before finishing off the job.

Once you get over that small hiccup, you are prompted to create a system backup, just in case the program happens to remove something that is actually quite important for the smooth running of your system. It should go without saying that making this backup is recommended after which you may finally immunize your system from a growing database of malicious processes.

The program has plenty of options for tweaking and customizing scans as well as some unrelated functions like the secure shredder and a start-up manager.

Although this is a powerful piece of anti-spyware software, it may be better to see it as part of your security solution. For example, team this up with Ad-Aware SE and you should be covered from practically every form of threat to your online safety.

Download SpyBot Search & Destroy 1.5.2 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ FileHamster 1.5.2.5 - Real time file backup and change tracking ]]> http://filehamster.en.softonic.com

FileHamster provides real-time backup and archiving of your files while you work. It enables you to monitor specific files on your hard drive and automatically create incremental backups whenever those files are modified. It also enables you to store notes about the changes that have been made, allowing you to quickly locate a specific revision or provide a detailed account of the work you've done on a project.

First backup tool for artists

Optimized to intelligently handle the varying saving schemes for all applications and includes features focused on helping artists be more efficient while they work.

Real-time backup

Creates revisions as you save without affecting your workflow.

Plugin support

Easily add new features through plugins. See our Downloads page to get them!

Simple

Users of any skill level will be able to back up their files in seconds.

Easy interface

Easiest backup tool on the market.

Comments

Make notations as you go, enabling you to easily know what changes were made in each version.

Download FileHamster 1.5.2.5 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Sandboxie 3.28 - Execute programs securely ]]> http://sandboxie.en.softonic.com

Sandboxie is an interesting alternative to traditional anti-virus/anti-spyware software. According to the developers, when you run a program on your computer, data flows from the hard disk to the program via read operations. The data is then processed and displayed, and finally flows back from the program to the hard disk via write operations. For example, if you run the Freecell program to play a game, it starts by reading the previously recorded statistics, displaying and altering them as you play the game, and finally writing them back to disk for future reference.

Sandboxie changes the rules such that write operations do not make it back to your hard disk. The key is the transient nature of the sandbox which makes it easy to get rid of everything in it. If you were to throw away the sandbox, by deleting everything in it, the sandboxed statistics would be gone for good, as if they had never been there in the first place. You maye in fact prefer to run your Web browser inside the sandbox most of the time. This way any incoming, unsolicited software (spyware, malware and the like) that you download, will be trapped in the sandbox. Changes made to your list of Favorites or Bookmarks, hijacking of your preferred start page, new and unwanted icons on your desktop - all these, and more, are trapped in and bound to the sandbox.

This is a very original solution to the perennial problems caused by adware, spyware and malware. However, it's dubious as to whether it can deal with the continual sophistication of such programs.

Download Sandboxie 3.28 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Handy Password 4.3 - Multifunctional password and bookmark manager ]]> http://handy-password.en.softonic.com

What are the benefits of using Handy Password?

  • It automatically saves data from web forms - passwords, logins, etc.
  • It automatically fills out web forms.
  • It automatically enters into sites: fills out web forms and logs in.
  • It securely stores data - passwords, addresses, credit card numbers, PIN codes, etc.
  • It generates crack-proof passwords

Autosave

This function allows you to save data, which you have entered into site web-forms (logins, passwords, etc.). All data saves into Handy Password file.Saving of passwords and other login information with Internet Explorer is not safe enough: anyone who works on user's PC can access to his/her Email and to all services where he/she has been registered.

Automatic login

Automatic login function allows to open your e-mail account or any other webpages protected by password with minimal efforts. So automatic login function in Handy Password saves your time and increases effectiveness of your working in the Internet.

Bookmark Manager in Handy Password: easy navigating and automatic login

What is a bookmark? When you find Web sites or pages that you like, you can save site's URL by creating a bookmark. Bookmark is placed on the top of the IE window. It allows to quickly open site or page, once clicking the bookmark. Handy Password is a bookmark manager, combined with password manager, which allows not only to bookmark favorite sites, but to login to them automatically. This is done by saving not only the site's URL, but also the form fields (for example, login username and password) by Handy password manager. Saved bookmarks are placed on the IE toolbar.

Download Handy Password 4.3 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ ESET NOD32 Antivirus 3.0.667.0 - Surprisingly quick, easy and secure antivirus ]]> http://nod32-antivirus.en.softonic.com

Some people prefer to have easier apps, even if that means that they have access to a limited range of tools.

This is the case of NOD32, an anti-virus tool that you may find simpler than other similar applications, but this simplicity is precisely the key to its success. In fact, NOD32 is one of the most popular anti-virus apps among computer users.

NOD32 is easy to install and launches without even restarting the system (something most anti-virus tools require after installation). The program has a simple, straightforward design, though you'll soon discover that this is actually the Standard mode display and that you can choose the Advanced mode if you prefer to have more options and tools at your fingertips.

The program includes basic anti-virus tools such as system analysis, antispyware filters, filters to exclude certain applications, a scheduling tool for automatic analysis and seamless integration within Windows Explorer. Being used to more complex anti-virus solutions though, I missed having an email and web browsing filter. Also, I found the Settings menu a bit too hidden and difficult to use. Apart from these small flaws, NOD32 is definitely worth a try, especially if you want to have a simple, hassle-free anti-virus that takes care of your system and doesn't bother you all the time.

NOD32 may be simpler than other anti-virus tools, but it's perfect for those users who prefer an easy, unobtrusive app even if they have to give up on certain advanced functions.

Download ESET NOD32 Antivirus 3.0.667.0 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Jetico Personal Firewall 2.0.2.4 - Complete and efficient firewall for your system ]]> http://jetico-personal-firewall.en.softonic.com

Jetico Personal Firewall software provides you with security against hackers who try to access your PC when you are connected to the Internet. Having inherited the Open architecture principles from BestCrypt, the Jetico Personal Firewall allows you to construct a strong yet accurate security policy and provides clear control over your network connections.

Three-layer protection:

Low-level (Network packet filter)

This checks the validity of network packets and parameters such as source & destination addresses, protocol, etc. Using this process, Jetico Personal Firewall can make your computer invisible to a non-trusted network. By selecting the Optimal Protection Policy, your computer becomes "stealthy". Any security probing tests (for example, ShieldsUp! tests) by internet hackers will report that your computer does not exist.

Application-level (Network events filter)

This checks and enables you to monitor network/internet connection requests made by applications. If you are not sure why an application wishes to send or receive data from the Internet you can limit or block the activity.

User-level (Process activity filter)

This notifies you of and prevents dirty tricks by Trojans and other malicious programs. (A Trojan can inject its own code into programmes on your computer and send data about you to a third party. e.g. a Trojan in Internet Explorer could transmit details of your browsing preferences.)

Download Jetico Personal Firewall 2.0.2.4 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Folder Vault 2.0.0.46 - Block access to your files and folders ]]> http://folder-vault.en.softonic.com

With more of us keeping sensitive data on our computers than ever before, the need to protect your data from the eyes of unwanted intruders is greater than ever. Of course, there are plenty of applications that allow you to encrypt your private data, but many of them come at a high price. Folder Vault is a relatively cheap alternative that blocks access to files, folders and archives through an interesting interface, which is completely styled around the theme of locking and protection.

Once installed, the program create a default protected folder called Folder Vault, to which any file on your PC can be added. One of the neat features of the software is that it can be run in Stealth mode, to avoid being detected and attacked. There are plenty of cool options locked within the app, such as the ability to auto-shutdown your machine after a designated number of failed password attempts. Handily the program includes a feature whereby once you enter a password, all of the files and folders within your protected folder become unblocked, saving you a lot of time.

I found the program was great for blocking files thanks to its powerful encryption algorithms. However, I was a little disappointed with the Hack Prevention and Automation modes, as these did not seem to work at all when I tried them.

Download Folder Vault 2.0.0.46 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Data Guardian 1.4 - 448-bit encryption for passwords ]]> http://data-guardian.en.softonic.com

Security and privacy are two of the most important issues in today's world; leaving passwords on sticky notes around your computer simply will not cut it anymore. Data Guardian is a secure database application with up to 448-bits of Blowfish encryption — regardless of how sensitive your data is. Create multiple databases in Data Guardian for a variety of purposes such as an address book, customer database, Christmas shopping list, journal, password manager, or even notepad.

Easily create categories to store records, and even apply custom color labels and icons! Change the view options for each category to see the information you want, and even add your own custom data fields. Do not be stuck with a program which forces you to input your information into predefined fields. Enter the data you need to, not what you are forced to.

Aside from Data Guardian's easy to use Keychain integration* to autofill passwords on web sites, it also offers a variety of other tools and features to enhance each record. Dial phone numbers through your modem with a single click, create new e-mail messages, generate secure passwords (based on an algorithm of your choosing), and even synchronize two databases.

Data Guardian is the ultimate database solution, and not only if security is a priority. Allow it to become your computerized Swiss Army Knife in an age of digital chaos.

Download Data Guardian 1.4 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Cobian Backup 9.1.1.192 - Free, practical and efficient backup application ]]> http://cobian-backup.en.softonic.com

It's always a pain trying to remember to backup things so why not let an application take care of it automatically?

Cobian Backup works as both an application and service. The program is very light on resources for a backup program of its size and runs in the background very discreetly. it makes periodic backups but unlike some programs, doesn't seem to slow down your PC in the process. It acts too quickly to really slow down whatever you are doing although if it has to backup a very big file, you will notice some lag (more than 1 GB). The program only copies your files and folders in their original or compressed mode to another destination and does not perform any compression itself. This is to ensure that nothing is corrupted during the backup process but if you are backing up particularly large files, you might find this something of a problem unless you've got lots of backup space. However, there are limited compression and strong encryption methods available if you need to reduce the size of your files and protect them at the same time.

A very convenient program that backups quickly, quietly and without any further prompting from it's user.

Download Cobian Backup 9.1.1.192 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Uranium Backup 6.8.0.2531 - Simple backup solution with support for scheduled copies ]]> http://uranium-backup.en.softonic.com

We constantly hear about the importance of creating backup copies of all our important documents, in case someday our computer happens to die. So if you've finally decided to follow this wise piece of advice, you can start with Uranium Backup.

This backup application will help you create security copies of selected files and documents and save them in different locations, including network units, USB devices and removable hard drives. Of course, you can also backup to another folder in the same drive, but that wouldn't be very smart (if you lose that hard drive, you lose both the original and the backup copy).

The most outstanding feature in Uranium Backup is that you can schedule those backups to be run at specific days and times. The scheduling menu has lots of options so you can easily have your backups done when you're not using the PC and thus it doesn't disturb your work.

On the downside, this freeware version doesn't include other interesting features like the ability to save backup copies to an FTP drive, a CD or a DVD.

Uranium Backup is a simple, easy-to-use backup tool you can use for your security copies, provided you don't need FTP support.

Download Uranium Backup 6.8.0.2531 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ ClamWin Portable 0.93.1 - A free anti virus scanner you can take anywhere ]]> http://clamwin-portable.en.softonic.com

ClamWin is a simple, powerful and most importantly, free antivirus checker for Microsoft Windows.

The program features an easy to use GUI and the developers claim high detection rates for viruses and spyware although it doesn't seem to find anything extra or beyond what other anti-virus scanners find. The full program is facilitated by regular virus database updates so that's its generally always updated with the latest threats to your system. Unfortunately ClamWin Portable has scheduled scans and updates disabled so that the program is not locked in huge updates every time you activate it on the move. The downside of this of course is that it's never up to date with the latest threats. The big advantage of this version of course is that you can take it pretty much anywhere on a USB stick. However, the program does not feature a real-time scanner which means that scanning for protection is down to you. You have to manually scan your system with the program every so often to see if you have been infected with anything.

Free, portable and easy to use, this is a decent anti virus solution let down by the fact that it doesn't scan in real time nor update itself automatically unless prompted.

Download ClamWin Portable 0.93.1 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Crypt4Free 4.7.6 - Free files and text encryption software ]]> http://crypt4free.en.softonic.com

Crypt4Free (freeware) is file encryption software with the ability to encrypt files and text messages. The application contains support for ZIP files and ability to securely delete sensitive files, as well as a skinnable user-friendly interface.

Features of the app:

  • Easy-to-use
  • Skin support (one free skin in standard downloadable package)
  • Encrypts every kind of file on every kind of medium, whether floppy disk, removable hard drive, zip drive, tape drive or other
  • Full .ZIP support - Crypt4Free can browse for existing .zip archives, extract its contents and even create new .zip archives
  • Built-in files compression to reduce size in transmission
  • Ability to send encrypted files and messages via the internet
  • Ability to encrypt email text (or any other text message) to send it securely via e-mail, chat, or instant messengers like ICQ, AOL Messenger, Microsoft Messenger etc. The recipent must enter the password to read this message
  • No "back door" in the software - No access possible under any circumstances. If you do not remember the password you cannot access the encrypted contents. There is no special procedure, secret code, or hidden entry method to fall back on
  • Built-in file shredder - i.e. wiping the contents of the original pre-encrypted file

Download Crypt4Free 4.7.6 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Password Tracker Deluxe 3.63 - Don't ever forget your password ]]> http://password-tracker-deluxe.en.softonic.com

As the developers point out, remembering passwords can be an absolute nightmare and with more and more needed on the internet, it's an increasing headache.

Password Tracker Deluxe stores passwords and usernames securely (via encryption) on your computer so you don't have to remember them. This doesn't mean that they are entered automatically into text fields. It just means that they are easily accessible from the Windows desktop system tray which is highly convenient if you need them at short notice. Password Tracker Deluxe can also remind you to change your passwords, and even assist you in creating newer, random and more secure passwords if you feel they are not secure enough or vulnerable to decryption. If you feel secure enough doing so, there's also the option to print out your passwords in a huge list or export them to an Excel file.

This is a very simple program that does it's job well and presuming that it never gets decrypted by outside forces, you should surf with peace of mind.

Download Password Tracker Deluxe 3.63 in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ QWallet 2.0f - Save and protect your valuable informartion ]]> http://qwallet.en.softonic.com

There is so much remember nowadays regarding passwords, credit card numbers and phone numbers that it's no wonder we get confused and disorganised.

Sometimes it's wise to let a piece of software do the hard work of remembering for us which is what QWallet attempts to do. It stores an array of information from credit card info to phone numbers in an easy to use application which sits in your system tray. When you need to use a credit card, just click on the QWallet icon in the system tray, and drag and drop your credit card number and expiration date directly onto the web page. Now, this might seem all a little insecure and I have to admit, I'd be wary of using it but the developers assure that it's highly encrypted and just about bulletproof to all but the most determined hackers. Note that the program never sends your information over the internet - it simply provides a relatively quick and easy way to look up and use those items you need. The information stored in QWallet can be password protected and encrypted at any time you want.

A much quicker and easier solution that trying to reach for your credit card everytime you need it although if you're not willing to take chances with security, stay clear.

Download QWallet 2.0f in Softonic

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<![CDATA[ Privatefirewall 6.0 - Efficient and secure firewall system ]]> http://privatefirewall.en.softonic.com

Firewalls can be frightening things to work with if you don't know how to configure them - blocking traffic you need and letting in those that you don't.

Privatefirewall is a comprehensive firewall that monitors your system 24/7. It has a highly intuitive interface that makes it one of those firewalls that you can use easily. It's easy to use for beginners although it will also appeal to advanced users because it has so many configurable options if you want them. If you do need help configuring these, the program has an extensive online documentation on the author's homepage. You can choose from three levels of firewall security which range from protection at home, at work, travel and mobile equipment. It monitors up to eleven areas divided into four areas: network, DCOM, browser and access control. These levels can be customized and completely preconfigured, but if you wish, you can set your own configuration rules made to your liking and tailored to your needs. The program features packet filtering, port analysis, tracking IP, e-mail etc in addition to developing detailed reports on monitoring results.

An excellent and powerful firewall that will fulfill the needs of all but the most demanding users.

Download Privatefirewall 6.0 in Softonic

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