After some months in beta stage, Microsoft has launched the final version of its security application, though I have to say Microsoft Security Essentials hasn't changed that much in the final release. It still features a simple, clear tabbed interface with four main areas in which the user can take a look at the system's security status, update virus and spyware definitions, check the history of previously detected items, and tweak the program's settings, respectively.

Microsoft Security Essentials includes three types of scan - quick, full, or customizable. They can be scheduled to run at a give time or particular location, and can be modified to work when the computer is not actually in use. Handily, Microsoft Security Essentials automatically updates its database, and is fully integrated with Windows Explorer and the Windows Firewall. It also boasts a system restore point, in case you need to undo any over-enthusiastic cleaning.

Microsoft Security Essentials is Microsoft's first attempt at a standalone security application for home use. Given its simplicity and suitability for beginners, it probably isn't the best choice for more advanced users or professional network administrators, but for the average user, it covers all the bases. Bear in mind, however, that Microsoft Security Essentials doesn't disinfect files - it only deletes them in case of infection.

Microsoft Security Essentials is a gentle introduction to the sometimes complicated world of home computer security.

Download Microsoft Security Essentials 2.0.657.0 in Softonic

With a totally revamped interface, all designed in white and green, Kaspersky Internet Security 2012 feels very comfortable for the newcomer, while including extensive configuration settings that enable more tech-savvy users to adapt the program to their needs.

The bottom area in Kaspersky Internet Security 2012 includes buttons for the program’s main functions: scans, network monitor, parental controls, applications activity monitoring utility and a large collection of system tools to clean, fix and optimize the system.

Kaspersky Internet Security 2012 not only protects your system from viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware and more, but also includes a special sandbox to run potentially dangerous apps, and complements the local virus database with cloud-based technology – the Kaspersky Security Network, which improves Kaspersky’s response to new threats thanks to anonymous data collected from users.

With a powerful anti-virus engine, plus extra protection from other online threats, finding drawbacks to Kaspersky Internet Security 2012 is really hard!

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Avira Premium Security Suite's interface is easy to use and similar in style to another great antivirus program, Avast. It is also a complete security package with virus scanner, AntiAdware, AntiSpyware, AntiDialer, POP 3 email protection (POP3), Personal Firewall, AntiSpam, and proactive AntiPhishing. AHeAD technology is employed by Avira Premium Security Suite, which means that security threats are "pre-empted" before they even get chance to trigger an alarm. It's also an excellent choice for gamers, because the "Game mode" feature works very discreetly and won't interrupt your play.

Meanwhile Avira Premium Security Suite's WebGuard means that internet surfing can be done with relative ease and worry free, whether or not your browser features a decent anti-phishing shield. Avira Premium Security Suite's Firewall is also remarkably easy to configure and takes you through the process step-by-step.

The best part is the overall interface though. It's clean, easy to use and doesn't leave you confused as to what the status is, whether it's scanning or updating.

Avira Premium Security Suite is excellent security suite that really leaves no stone unturned.

Download Avira Premium Security Suite 10.0.0.604 in Softonic

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Installing Advanced Keylogger is easy, although it may interfere with some antivirus applications, because it could be detected as spyware. The program is hard for users to see because it doesn't create a program folder or leave an icon in the System Tray.

Advanced Keylogger records keyboard strokes, entered passwords, visited web pages, and clipboard contents. It can be set to take screenshots periodically. The records are easy to read, and can even be emailed to you so you can monitor PC remotely.

Applications like Advanced Keylogger raise serious trust issues, and cannot properly replace parental supervision. Hence, it's always better to supervise young children in person when they use the internet.

Advanced Keylogger is very effective at spying on users of a PC. As it hides itself very well, it should be used with caution.

Download Advanced Keylogger 3 in Softonic

This basic tool logs any keyboard input done on any Windows application, from a Word document to a Firefox Internet URL and saves it into a TXT file for later reviewing. The program doesn't actually record what apps you're using – that is, unless you write something on them.

Family Keylogger displays an icon on the system tray than can be conveniently hidden, so that nobody notices they're being observed. The program can be opened again with a customizable keyboard shortcut.

A basic logging app to keep track of all keyboard input on your system.

Download Family Keylogger 3.02 in Softonic

The program itself is simple to use - the interface is clear and uncomplicated, with a menu running down the left-hand side and the main interface on the right. Once you chose the user account you want to protect and a master password, you can move through the various parts of the program, restricting access, hiding elements and remotely administering use of your computer.

Almost every aspect of Winlock Professional is configurable, from the way you are notified of changes to what appears in the start menu and which drives you want to hide. In fact, there are so many areas to configure that at first I had problems imagining who would want to use a program like Winlock Professional. After looking at the suggestions on the website, however, it became more obvious. Above all, Winlock Professional is suitable for computers that will be being used by strangers, such as in a school, guest house or Internet café. The program is also suitable for home use, but if you need it in the privacy of your own house, you should ask yourself a question - why am I letting people I trust so little use my computer?!

Even if the Winlock Professional user is not an expert, they should have no problem. The help file is comprehensive, and each block/restrict action is clearly displayed and easily toggled. For instance, if you are managing computers in a library, you may want to block file sharing sites on the internet, prevent the computer from being locked, and hide the control panel. All of these actions, and many more, are easily and quickly achieved with Winlock Professional. It's an all-round winner.

Winlock Professional - the perfect solution for managing computers used by multiple people.

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This is not preventative software, rather it keeps a log of all activity for you to look at at your leisure. It records URLs, chat conversations, received and sent email, and even takes screen-shots of desktop activity. All the information is stored in a special hidden file, and SoftActivity Keylogger will even send out regular email reports if you wish.

The program itself is only accessible with a password entered during installation, so no one but you can search the logs. The 15 day trial version runs with an icon in the system tray, although this is removed if the program is bought, so no one will know it's running.

The records SoftActivity Keylogger provides are impressive and a little scary. It certainly does what it claims to do, though we feel this kind of program is quite underhand. A better alternative is direct supervision, or activation of parental control systems for internet usage, which prevent children seeing the wrong material in the first place. However, if spying is what's needed, this pricey application will suffice.

If you can't trust your cohabitants, SoftActivity Keylogger will provides the means to spy on their computer usage.

Download SoftActivity Keylogger 5.1 in Softonic

If you're a PC user who browses the internet even a little, you're going to want to protect your computer from threats with an antivirus program. You also have to protect against spyware, malicious programs that try to collect your private, personal information.

Fortunately, Agnitum Outpost Security Suite offers a two-in-one antivirus and antispyware protection. Its scans are relatively quick for a product in its field, and there's now a new two-way firewall the ensures secure network connections. The program's SmartDecision feature helps you decide what to do with any threats Agnitum Outpost Security Suite detects, and it filters out web content to alert you of online threats at lightning fast speed.

In addition, Agnitum Outpost Security Suite also has an anti-spam filter that works with Microsoft Outlook an other similar applications to ensure you inbox doesn't get inundated with junk mail every day. Another cool feature is the USB virus protection that prevents viruses on your PC from spreading to plugged in USB devices.

Unfortunately, with so many options, Agnitum Outpost Security Suite can be a little intimidating for beginners to learn. While a tutorial is provided with the program, it still might take some time to learn all of Agnitum Outpost Security Suite's many features.

Agnitum Outpost Security Suite is an effective two-in-one antivirus and antispyware combination, meant to protect your PC from online threats.

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