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 Anti-Virus 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.

Kaspersky Anti-Virus 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 Anti-Virus 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 Anti-Virus 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 2009 8.0.0.357 in Softonic

Security is one of the main concerns among computer users. This is why it's important to count on reliable applications that can protect our system and data from potential dangers. Sometimes free security apps are regarded as being less safe but you might change your mind after testing AVG Antivirus.

AVG is one of the handiest antivirus systems I've seen so far (and believe me, I've tested a few). Being a smaller application, AVG may not feature such a wide range of tools or utilities as the other antivirus programs do. However, it makes up for it by offering a neat, effective protection which stays silently minimized in your system tray and only activates when needed.

This is precisely one of the best things about AVG. It works completely in the background, without the need of half the system resources and of course, without constantly bothering you with warning windows or update messages. You can just go on with your work and you won't even notice you have an antivirus application up and running. Being the free version of a complete program, AVG shows the odd nagging notification encouraging you to buy AVG Professional which may annoy the more sensitive users.

AVG features real time system protection, an email scanner (which doesn't prevent spam from coming into your mailbox though – spam filter is a Pro-only feature) and as new features in AVG 8, an anti-spyware tool and the so called LinkScanner technology to protect your web browsing. The whole package should be enough to ensure you're not infected with any virus. Also, it integrates seamlessly with Windows Explorer, thus allowing you to scan files from their context menus. AVG's virus database is automatically updated on a daily basis, so you're always protected even from the most recently discovered threats. The program supports scheduled scans as well.

AVG Antivirus remains a perfect security solution for the average computer user, providing quite a powerful weapon against viruses.

Download AVG Anti-Virus System Free Edition 8.0.100 in Softonic

PC Tools Antivirus enables you to protect your system from the most common threats such as viruses, trojans, worms and other undesirable creatures.

Despite the "Free edition" tag, I was glad to see that the program really works and it's not crippled in any way. That is, it scans your system and whenever it detects any danger, it prompts you to disinfect, put into quarantine or actually delete all affected files. However, bear in mind that if you select a full scan, your system is going to be very busy for a while. Luckily, you can schedule these scans to be performed when you don't need to work on your PC.

The program features some other typical antivirus functions, such as real time protection and seamless integration with Windows Explorer, which allows you to scan a file with just a mouse click.

PC Tools Antivirus displays a nicely designed interface with big, bright buttons for the most common tasks and a wide range of configuration settings that enable you to tweak the program's behaviour. I also liked the fact that it doesn't hog system resources, so that your PC can comfortably run even if real time protection is on.

Download PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition 4.0.0.20 in Softonic

For all those concerned with the safety of their PC, Bitdefender offer this unique and comprehensive solution, which contains everything you need.

BitDefender Total Security comprises, in addition to an anti-virus program, a firewall, anti-spam, parental control and privacy, a backup utility and an optimizer. With all these tools, your PC will be safe from viruses, hackers, spyware, spam, phishing, and you can protect your children from adult content.

BitDefender antivirus Total Security also provides real-time protection against spyware and other types of malware, including rootkits dangerous. It's particularly effective at blocking spam in Microsoft Outlook 2000, 2003, 2007, Outlook Express, Windows Mail and Mozilla Thunderbird 1.5 and 2.0. There's also a useful "game mode" for gamers which reduces the impact of the program whilst you are playing to avoid affecting the performance of the game as little as possible. All in all, there's not much more you'll need although the free hourly updates do become rather tiresome especially if you have an older machine.

Everything you need in one package - an excellent protection solution for those who want the ultimate solution in one.

Download BitDefender Total Security 2008 11.0.8 in Softonic

BitDefender is one of the most comprehensive protection packages out there for your PC. Covering everything from an anti-virus protector to Trojan blocker, it's a package for someone who doesn't want to install lots of separate ones.

The program is updated hourly which is both good and bad in equal measure. Good in that you're always protected but bad in that it can slow your system down a bit. The good thing is if your PC does crash at all, BitDefender automatically repairs and updates itself once you've restarted your PC. For those that upgrade to the full version, there's a 24/7 helpline via phone, email or chat at no additional cost. There's a NEWGamer Mode which temporarily modifies protection settings to minimize their impact on how your game performs so that you can play games with peace of mind. The anti virus is pretty powerful which blocks unknown viruses using what the developers call "advanced proactive detection techniques". In addition to all this, it includes a CD burning backup facility plus a tuneup utility to keep your PC operating at optimum performance.

An excellent all in one package although the updates a re a bit too regular and it takes your time to find your way around.

Download BitDefender Internet Security 2008 in Softonic

Now you can be sure that all the information on your PC is completely safe thanks to the reinforced protection of the new Panda Antivirus + Firewall 2008. Check the latest news, stay in touch with your contacts, download the programs you need, or bank online in the knowledge that you are automatically protected against viruses, spyware, hackers, and online fraud.

It includes Panda Antivirus, Panda AntiSpyware, Panda Firewall and Panda TruPrevent.

Key features:

In-Depth online scanning

Deep scanning of your PC with TotalScan Pro..

The exclusive technologies in Panda TotalScan Pro allow periodic in-depth scanning to detect and delete the most sophisticated threats that can slip past traditional protection. Always protected against the most sophisticated threats!

Latest generation antivirus

Automatically detects and eliminates all types of viruses.

If content is missing from your hard disk, if you have problems starting your computer, or if some of your files are unusable, you can be sure you've been hit by a computer virus. You can be infected just by surfing the Net, downloading a file, or opening an email attachment. There are also the dangers of worms and Trojans which now use new stealth techniques to evade detection.

With Panda Antivirus + Firewall 2008 you can use the Internet and download or share files in the knowledge that you are fully protected against all types of viruses, worms and Trojans. Forget about infections!

Powerful AntiSpyware

Keeps your PC free from spyware.

Computer slowdowns, annoying and aggressive pop-up ads, sudden changes to your system settings... these are just some of the effects that spyware can have on your PC. The real danger however is that these threats can steal information about your Internet activity and then use it without your knowledge.

Panda Antivirus + Firewall 2008 automatically detects and removes spyware and other annoying programs. Safeguard your privacy!

Personal bi-directional firewall

Blocks hackers and intruders.

When you connect to the Internet, many programs try to access your PC. Some of them are not dangerous, such as those that let you update applications you have installed, but others will try to exploit your connection or control your computer.

Panda Antivirus + Firewall 2008 includes a configurable personal firewall to stop intruders and hackers from accessing your PC. Turn your computer into a fortress!

AntiPhishing

Protects against online fraud.

Certain emails are designed to trick you into revealing your confidential bank details. They may appear to have been sent from your bank, but they have not. Falling into the trap can be costly: it could give the phishers complete access to your accounts. Panda Antivirus + Firewall 2008 can identify these fraudulent emails, and prevent you from revealing your bank details, account numbers or other confidential information.

Panda Antivirus + Firewall 2008 will keep you safe from these dangerous scams. Bank and shop online with complete peace of mind!

Protection against dangerous websites

Prevents access to websites harboring threats.

Many infections occur simply when you visit a certain web page. Panda Antivirus + Firewall 2008 recognizes dangerous web pages and prevents you from opening them and becoming infected. This feature is particularly effective against certain types of spyware and online fraud. Surf the Internet safely!

TruPrevent Technologies

Double protection.

Some new threats are able to spread globally in just a few hours. In this time, your PC could be unprotected as your antivirus will not have had time to update. The TruPrevent Technologies included in Panda Antivirus + Firewall 2008 detect and block these unknown threats, intelligently scanning program behavior. This means your PC will have the reinforced protection it needs. Stay one step ahead of unknown threats!

AntiRootkit

Detects threats that try to hide on your PC.

Rootkits can be used to hide threats and prevent them from being detected by security solutions. These threats can then act with impunity on your system. With Panda Antivirus + Firewall 2008 you won't have any problem, as its reinforced protection system can detect threats that use this stealth technique. Protect yourself from hidden threats!

Download Panda Antivirus + Firewall 2008 in Softonic

BitDefender 8 Free Edition is your chance to use one of the world's most effective antivirus engines for free!

BitDefender 8 uses the same ICSA Labs certified scanning engines found in other BitDefender products, allowing you to enjoy basic virus protection for no cost at all. BitDefender 8 Free Edition is an on-demand virus scanner, which is best used in a system recovery or forensics role.

Download BitDefender 8.0 Free Edition in Softonic

BitDefender Professional Plus integrates antivirus, firewall and antispam modules into one comprehensive security package, tailored to meet the needs of home and corporate Internet users worldwide.

Antivirus

The mission of the AntiVirus module is to ensure detection and removal of all viruses in the wild. BitDefender Antivirus uses robust scan engines, certified by ICSA Labs, Virus Bulletin, Checkmark, Checkvir and TUV.

Firewall

The firewall module protects your data and your privacy by filtering the incoming and outgoing traffic, controlling cookies, blocking malicious scripts and "XXX-dialer" type programs.

Antispam

Quite simply put, the BitDefender Antispam module deals with the problem of spam, so you don't have to.

Download BitDefender Professional Plus 9 in Softonic

Security is one of the key elements in a healthy computer life. And with tools like Rising Antivirus staying safe is now much easier.

Rising Antivirus is a free antivirus tools that offers comprehensive protection for your system against viruses, worms, Trojans, rootkits and other nasty creatures that may threaten your computer.

Behind a sleek dark interface, Rising Antivirus keeps a powerful array of security tools with which you can analyze your system according to a customizable schedule, keep an eye on currently active applications and automatically scan email messages and Office documents.

Rising Antivirus features several types of scan and includes a highly detailed configuration menu. I especially liked the fact that it's quite unobtrusive and doesn't bother you with warning messages all the time, like other antivirus tools do. On the downside, the general system scan is quite slow.

Keep your system safe from all online threats with Rising Antivirus, a free antivirus solution.

Download Rising Antivirus 2008 Free Edition in Softonic

MySecurityCenter Internet Security Suite aims to prevent your computer being taken over by hijackers or trojans that could compromise your security.

This includes an anti-virus, anti-spyware, anti-spam and firewalls designed to work together for maximum protection. Naturally, with so many applications operating at once, you'd expect occasional slowdown of your machine during use which does happen but it's nothing inconvenient.

The anti-virus and anti-spyware of MySecurityCenter Internet Security Suite work in real time so nothing is left to deal with after it is happened - if it's out there, then it's unlikely to get past MySecurityCenter Internet Security Suite. The same goes for the Outlook and Outlook Express filters which ensure that any attachments received or sent are completely clean.

The MySecurityCenter Internet Security Suite firewall is relatively simple to configure and operate allowing you to select which programs should be allowed to access the internet and which cookies and popups should be allowed.

MySecurityCenter Internet Security Suite is an excellent all round security package that leaves no holes open.

Download MySecurityCenter Internet Security Suite in Softonic

Some anti-virus programs cause more problems than they solve. Avast! Home Edition anti-virus is thankfully not one of those as it exceeds expectations while remaining free. Lightweight, vigilant and most importantly, effective, this could be the answer to your prayers if you’ve had no luck finding a virus checker you like.

The developers make a point of stressing that this program is strictly not for institutional use – it is designed specifically for the threats most home users face daily. Their philosophy is that efficient home virus protection is essential in preventing users one day being struck by a serious global virus. What impresses you immediately with Avast! is its vigilance. It’s likely that within minutes of installation, you’ll receive a pop up alert due to a Trojan or virus that had been incubating on your PC. If not, rest assured that it won’t be long before Avast! sets off its trademark siren and alerts you that something has been detected. The latest version of

Avast’s antivirus kernel promises 100% detection of ‘In-the-Wild’ viruses (viruses already spreading between users) and excellent detection of Trojan horses. Avast! provides 24 hour protection via its ‘On-Access’ scanner but you can initiate manual scans via the fairly simple user interface. You can start additional modules from here, such as the Virus Chest, Updater or Log Viewer. Another great feature of Avast! is the option to change the skin of this interface. The developer website features practically hundreds of distinctive designs made by aficionados and even offers a guide to designing your own.

Something often overlooked by major virus checking packages is P2P applications installed on your PC but Avast! covers this with a P2P and Instant Messenger shield. Whilst chat applications themselves do not impose any serious security risks in terms of viruses, their less sophisticated file sharing methods can easily lead to virus infections if not properly monitored. With so many infected files on P2P networks such as Kazaa and eMule too, it’s also good to know that Avast! won’t let you open them without quietly checking them first.

The program also features both a Web and Network shield that constantly monitors traffic. The Web Shield acts as a transparent HTTP proxy and is compatible with all major web browsers. One of the truly outstanding features of Avast! is that unlike heavyweights such as Kaspersky or Norton, you hardly notice it working in the background. This is because of a unique feature the developers call ‘Intelligent Stream Scan’ that scans objects on-the-fly, without needing to cache them locally. Even the virus updates are unobtrusive. Avast! downloads the updates gradually and only those that are absolutely essential instead of the whole database. You receive a ‘Virus database has been updated’ voice message every time this has been completed along with a small popup which you can turn off if it annoys you.

There really is little to fault Avast! on in a market that is saturated with too many ineffective virus checkers. Although it doesn’t guzzle resources, if you’re running it on an older machine, you might find it slows you down. Some new users also complain that conducting a simple manual scan is more complicated than it should be but if you’ve spent anytime with virus checkers, you’ll realise that its more than worth your while getting to know this excellent program.

Download Avast! Home 4.8.1229 in Softonic

Trojan Remover is designed to aid in the removal of Trojan Horses and Internet Worms when standard anti-virus software has either failed to detect the problem or is unable to effectively eliminate it.

The majority of Virus and Trojan Scanners are able to detect malicious Trojan Horses and Internet Worms but aren't always very efficient in removing them once triggered. Trojan Remover aims to carry out such a removal without the user having to manually edit system files, including the Registry. The application removes the additional system modifications that some Trojans carry out, which are often ignored by other Virus and Trojan Scanners.

Download Trojan Remover 6.7.1 in Softonic

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

Avira AntiVir Premium is a professional anti-virus package that offers the latest in protection technology.

It covers just about every major threat to your system including viruses and malware, worms, Trojans, adware, Spyware and phishing. The program features real-time on-access
scanning so you can be sure you are protected 24 hours a day. There are also manual options for full system scans and it automatically keeps its virus database updated with the latest threats. The interface also makes available an easy to access POP3 based MailScanner that scans emails before they are stored on your machine. The overall interface is one of the best things about this security centre for me because unlike many, it's not cluttered. It's extremely easy to navigate and read and doesn't leave you wondering whether it's in scan mode, updated or ready to go.

This really is one very solid anti-virus suite that seems to run so well, you'll hardly notice it but when you do need it, you'll find yourself presented with a friendly interface that makes using it a pleasure.

Download Avira AntiVir Premium in Softonic

The battle against trojans and spyware is a constantly ongoing one but there's no need to spend big money on expensive solutions.

a-Squared is a free anti-spyware/anti-malware scanner that can pick up just about anything that's illegally installed itself on your system. It frees your PC from malware after a simple and fairly quick scan to improve your PC performance and reduce any performance or internet related problems. However, this is one program that does so with caution which is a refreshing change. Instead of just wiping anything off your system, it places those components that are critical to system performance in quarantine meaning that there is less chance of your system becoming unstable after a scan. The program is regularly updated although unfortunately not automatically - you have to instruct it to perform an online update at periodic intervals. The program has clearly been designed with beginners in mind - there are no complicated scanning functions or strange components to deal with. It reminds me somewhat of CCleaner and in a way, performs a similar job but with a focus on malware instead of temporary files.

An extremely simple and affective malware scanner, it should pick up any illegal software that's attached it self onto your system in a safe and secure way.

Download a-squared (a²) Free 3.5.0.25 in Softonic

There are many anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-dialer software products but only a few of them can claim to provide effective protection from all types of Malware. The main reason for this is the eternal cat and mouse game played for decades between Malware programmers and the security industry.

Normal security software is limited by the fact that it can only recognize Malware for which the manufacturer has already created a signature - assuming that the manufacture even has a copy of the Malware available for analysis.

Emsi Software has now turned the tables and no longer trails behind the Malware authors. a-squared Anti-Malware does not identify damaging software purely on the basis of signatures, but also looks at how it behaves. This means that you will be protected from the hundreds of new Trojans, Worms, Dialers, Rootkits and Spyware that appear every day.

Download a-squared Anti-Malware 3.5 in Softonic

Real time protection against viruses and trojans has never been more important and F-Prot Antivirus for Windows claims to have detected just about everything under the sun.

This includes worms, trojans and other threats against the security of your system. F-Prot works via the OnDemand Scanner which is your starting point for carrying out everything that the program is capable of. This includes scanning, changing the settings and updating the status monitor or at least, seeing what the status currently is. The date of the last virus update is always visible so you can see when the last virus database was updated. The program then checks for new virus signatures at various intervals whenever you go online. One good feature of this particular scanner is that it can also detect and scan external drives and even network drives. It also provides reliable realtime protection to deny any malicious attacks on your system by quarantining them before they can do any damage. your system access. It is however a rather clunky and cumbersome piece of software which seems to kick into action at the most inconvenient moments and takes a long time to scan. It does however seem to detect a huge amount of malicious data and is worth running just in case you think your virus checker is missing something.

A very thorough checker but could do with a few tweaks and improvements to make it more lightweight and discreet.

Download F-Prot Antivirus for Windows 6.0.9.1 in Softonic

AIM Fix was created to remove all known AIM viruses in one consolidated removal tool. It is designed to end the virus processes, delete the files, and remove registry keys created by the virus.

AIM Fix was created to remove all known AIM viruses in one consolidated removal tool. It is designed to end the virus processes, delete the files, and remove registry keys created by the virus. The tool is updated very frequently, in an attempt to make sure it removes all AIM viruses. As long as the developers become aware of the virus, it is removed by AIM Fix.

Download AIM Fix 1.6.28.1459 in Softonic

BitDefender Antivirus protects your computer from all the latest viruses and spyware with 24 hour protection and regular updates.

On installation BitDefender Antivirus performs an immediate check on your system for viruses, worms, Trojan horses and spyware. The software also scans all incoming internet traffic - whether they are Web pages, e-mails, instant messaging programs or file-sharing software. Once BitDefender has discovered a dangerous intruder, the program removes the malware or moves the pest into quarantine. Hourly signature updates provide constant protection from new digital threats although these can slow your system down and become rather annoying. The program features anti-phishing protection to stop you getting sucked in by malicious sites and it also features 24 hourr support if you upgrade to the full version. This latest release also features a Gamer Mode which temporarily modifies protection settings so as to minimize their impact on gaming performance, maintaining a safe, fun gaming experience.

This is a complete anti-virus protection system that's constantly updated and an ideal application for gamers, especially those that play games across the internet and are worried about breaches of security.

Download BitDefender Antivirus 2008 in Softonic

CA Anti-Virus provides complete protection against viruses, worms and Trojan horse programs. The easy-to-use interface and frequent automatic updates make it effortless to stay protected, and with quick scan times and efficient use of system resources, it won't bog down your PC.

Key features:

• Up to $1,500 Protection*
• Protects up to 3 PC's
• Detects 100% of viruses**
• Scans emails automatically
• Defends against emerging viruses
• Protects files, downloads and attachments
• Anti-virus software Certified by Virus Bulletin

Download CA Anti-Virus 2008 in Softonic