Top Antivirus Software 2006 The Shield
Pro, McAfee Virus Scan, BitDefender 9

From LoveToKnow Buy

Confused about which of the top antivirus software programs to use? Many people feel the same way because numerous products exist, each claiming to be the best.

Review top antivirus software to protect your computer.

Top Antivirus Software Reviews

So, how does an antivirus software program make the list, you may be wondering. Popularity is a factor, but name recognition is not always a reliable measure of quality. What does matter is consumer satisfaction, including reliability, value, ease-of-use and technical support.

BitDefender 10

Now updated to BitDefender 10, with version 9 awarded the PC World #1 Best Buy of 2006, this antivirus program is a growing favorite among consumers. Introduced in 2001, BitDefender is positioned as the fastest growing antivirus program vendor. Noted for its industry certifications and technology, BitDefender is highly effective at protecting your computer from the latest viruses, spyware and privacy threats while consuming fewer computer resources than competitors such as McAfee and Norton.

Additionally, BitDefender 10 offers advanced spyware protection against new, unidentified infections, which are often the most problematic. BitDefender scans for computer changes typically involved with spyware, allowing the program to recognize problems and take action on suspicious files.

Pros:

Recipient of numerous certifications meeting the highest standards in antivirus protection.
Novice-friendly installation and use.
Customized settings offer a proper balance of protection and computer performance.
Fewer reported conflicts with existing programs.
Leading-edge anti-spyware protection.
Offers two home versions, one with added firewall and anti-spam features.
Efficient and free technical support is available by email, online chat and phone.
Product updates itself 24 times a day, also allowing for self-repair if damaged.

Cons:

Slower e-mail scans and a potential conflict claimed to exist with Eudora e-mail.
Faster antivirus programs exist, but they are often more complicated to use or do not offer similar protection.

Product Information:

Price: BitDefender 10 ($29.95) / BitDefender 10 Plus ($39.95)
Company Web Site: www.bitdefender.com

McAfee VirusScan

McAfee VirusScan, now VirusScan Plus, integrates antivirus, firewall protection and anti-spyware in one program. This is a considerable improvement over the former product, as far as overall internet security. However, it may be more product than some people want or need, especially if consumers have an existing firewall or wish to use a separate product for these tasks.

Historically, McAfee has a reputation of degrading computer performance and is also known for conflicting with some programs, causing them not to run properly or producing errors. Recent reviews of the 2007 version do show improvements, however, with some preferring the product over its leading competitor, Norton Antivirus 2007.

So why do people use McAfee? Overall, it is a trusted name in the antivirus world, partially due to its longevity in this industry, and it also offers above average protection against new viruses.

Pros:

The number two leader in top antivirus software sales, offering protection you can rely on.
Technology and resources to keep on top of the latest viruses and malware.
A good install-and-forget program for novices.
Privacy features useful for children and adults.

Cons:

May significantly degrade computer system performance.
Reputation of program conflicts.
Formerly known for poor or costly technical support, which allegedly has improved.

Product Information:

Price: ($39.95)
Company Web Site: www.mcafee.com

The Shield Pro

The Shield Pro is in the little league of antivirus protection as far as name recognition and resources, but its popularity has grown by word-of-mouth. However, the fact the company offers an attractive affiliate program, paying 50 percent on each sale, makes it difficult to find unbiased reviews.

The Shield Pro, like McAfee, includes a firewall, and is reputed to consume little computer resources, its foremost praise. The standard version costs less than most antivirus programs, but the Pro version is more expensive. The Shield's easy-to-use interface is appreciated by novices and the company is also lauded for offering one-year of free technical support.

Pros:

Fast system scanning and low consumption of system resources, making it idea for slower computers.
Windows XP certification indicates conflicts with Windows XP should be limited.
The price, often discounted, is attractive with renewals at 50% off.
Positive consumer feedback out of limited reviews.

Cons:

Lack of certifications from independent testing organizations.
Lacks the resources of larger companies to combat new viruses.
No free trial offered.

Product Information:

Price: The Shield ($29.95) / The Shield Pro ($49.95)
Company Web Site: www.pcsecurityshield.com

Other Antivirus Reviews

For more information and additional antivirus reviews see:

Conclusion: The Best Antivirus Program

Of the three top antivirus software 2006, and considering the 2007 updates, BitDefender 10 outperforms its competitors in many areas. Slowing down one's computer is the most frequent complaint. To see which antivirus program you prefer, consider using the free trials available. Further, you may find discounts by using a comparison shopping search engine for the best rates.