Antivirus software is must-have protection. This review picks the best antivirus software based on its virus detection abilities, features, and breadth of protection. Whether you're seeking total system coverage or an ala carte solution, each of the following products provides superb virus protection for Windows-based PCs. Because every system is unique, evaluate several of Windows XP and Windows Vista antivirus scanners to find the software best suited for your PC and your level of experience.
1. ZoneAlarm Extreme Security
ZoneAlarm Extreme Security takes a holistic approach to security - combining malware and intrusion prevention with online backup and full drive encryption to protect data in the event of a lost or stolen computer.2. F-Secure Internet Security Suite
Families that need to control Internet access for younger children and teens will find much to like about F-Secure Internet Security 2010. Parental controls can be set to accommodate various user types, including time limits imposed on Web surfing.3. Norton Internet Security
Symantec's antivirus products have historically always provided excellent detection and removal of malware. On the downside, that protection came at the price of often crippling system performance. That's now a thing of the past. Performance overhauls were the hallmark of Norton Internet Security 2009, and enhancements continued in the 2010 product line.4. Panda Antivirus Pro
Panda Antivirus Pro combines antivirus, antispyware, antiphishing and a firewall with its highly touted behavior-based TruPrevent Technology. License covers use on up to three computers and includes free tech support via email (telephone support options are also available).5. Trend Micro Internet Security Suite
Smart Protection Network is the key component of Trend Micro Internet Security, included in both the Pro and vanilla version. The Smart Protection Network sets up a continuous communication channel between your PC and Trend Micro's servers, reporting file activities and other system activities on an ongoing basis. Trend Micro's servers analyze the data, create signatures as necessary, and push back the updates to users.6. G Data SecuritySuite
G Data SecuritySuite uses two antivirus engines, AVAST and BitDefender. Standalone, both engines offer good detection and when combined each picks up where the other might let off. In theory, this could translate into faster signature releases (G Data offers hourly updates) and overall improved heuristics.7. BitDefender Antivirus Plus
Softwin's BitDefender Professional protects against viruses, spyware, and instant messaging threats, as well as offering firewall rules to block undesirable traffic and a privacy gateway to keep your identity and preferences private while surfing the Internet.
8. Eset Nod32
Nod32 features a small footprint, low performance hit, and fast scan speeds, providing focused virus protection ideal for gamers or those with an older PC. Should be used in conjunction with a firewall.9. McAfee VirusScan Plus
McAfee VirusScan Plus is an ideal candidate for those seeking an antivirus/firewall combination without all the bloat of traditional Internet security suites. McAfee VirusScan Plus makes an easy job of removing adware and spyware, something not all antivirus products deliver. SiteAdvisor service is including, helping to guard against malicious websites.
