Consumer Search: Internet Security Software: Reviews

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What To Look For

How much security software do you need?

Most Internet attacks consist of viruses, Trojans or worms -- applications that cause problems in your computer system and often spread themselves by sending bogus emails to everyone in your address book. Viruses often come from unsuspecting sources; music CDs or flash drives have been known to inadvertently carry viruses. Antivirus software is designed to deal with these problems by scanning incoming emails, attachments and downloads, then cleaning or deleting any offending files.

Antivirus software is still essential, but it's not always enough. Malicious users, or "black hat hackers," can devise ways to penetrate your computer and search your files for personal and financial information. Without a firewall, any file on your computer may be accessible to strangers.

When you use the Internet, many sites upload adware or spyware to your computer without your explicit permission (or the permission clause is buried within a lengthy end-user license agreement that you did not fully read) to track your browsing and report data to the perpetrator. Some spyware and adware can be semi-benign, reporting which websites you visit or which ads you click. However, these programs are always running, which slows your computer. But the worst spyware can hijack your home page or record passwords and keystrokes.

Phishing commonly takes the form of bogus emails claiming to be from financial institutions, stores or even the IRS. Clicking on a link within the email takes you to a fake website that prompts you to "confirm" your passwords, settings or other confidential information. Phishing-based Trojans, or traffic redirectors, involve malicious code that redirects you to fraudulent sites while you're surfing. Phishing can be used to gain access to your financial and personal information, and it can make you vulnerable to identity theft. "In session" phishing -- where a malicious user compromises a legitimate site to mount a customized phishing attack (often through a pop-up window) -- is another problem.

Installing and using antivirus software, spam filters, spyware blockers and a personal firewall will protect you from the majority of these Internet attacks. Some of these protections may already be offered by your ISP, so you might not need something as extensive as an Internet security software suite. Some experts recommend buying only a good antivirus program, using your router's hardware firewall in conjunction with the free firewall included in Windows, and relying on free anti-spyware software, such as Windows Defender (though experts also say that some commercial anti-spyware software is more effective). All programs covered in this report are compatible with Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7, unless otherwise noted. We'll also touch upon programs for the Mac and Linux operating systems.

Important features

Internet security suites combine several of the most important types of security software -- including antivirus, anti-spam, anti-spyware and firewall programs -- into one unified package. But choosing a security suite is only one component of a good online safety plan. Experts recommend keeping these factors in mind when selecting and using security software:

* Consider supplementing with extra anti-spyware software. See the ConsumerSearch reports on anti-spyware andantivirus software for recommendations, including some free options.

* Experts recommend using a router with an integrated hardware firewall as the first layer of protection, and a software firewall as the second. Hardware firewalls are more effective than software ones, experts say, and many routers include one.

* Though you have security software installed, you must still monitor your Internet behavior. Be careful before clicking on an ad or a download link, and don't open emails or attachments that look suspicious. The mainstream media now has good coverage of the latest Internet dangers.

* Disable file- and printer-sharing options if you aren't using these features. Remote file sharing is a common vulnerability that hackers use to access the contents of a hard drive.

* When choosing Internet security software, be sure to check system requirements. Pick the correct version for your operating system. All current Internet security suites are compatible with Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7 except as noted in this report.

* Consider using Firefox or Opera web browsers for most Internet surfing. Experts agree that these browsers offer more security than Internet Explorer, even though Internet Explorer 8, the current version, has better security features than previous versions. See the ConsumerSearch report on web browsers for more information.

* Update Internet security software regularly. Be sure your software is set to check automatically for updates. Antivirus software needs to be kept up-to-date with frequently downloaded virus definitions; patches are also routinely issued to fix any security holes.

* Scan email attachments before opening them, and scan outgoing mail. Although it may slightly slow the sending and receiving of mail, the biggest virus threats still come via email. Scanning outgoing mail is additional insurance that you aren't sending along infected mail. Most programs can be set to do this automatically.

* Allow automatic Windows updates or frequently check the Microsoft website for security updates and patches to the Windows operating system. It doesn't take long for hackers to exploit newly discovered vulnerabilities in Windows operating systems, and keeping your system up-to-date is the best foil.

* Look for software with a multi-PC license if you have more than one computer to protect. Many Internet security suites are offered in versions that allow them to be installed on more than one computer. If you only need protection for one computer, however, less expensive versions that can be installed only on a single machine are usually available as well.

Many security suites have some anti-social behaviors. They are unwilling to share your computer with other security programs, and in some cases, they interfere with unrelated harmless programs. Since experts recommend using several anti-spyware programs, those who want full protection have a dilemma. Spy Sweeper and Spyware Doctor are highly regarded by reviewers. If you are already running one of those programs, your best bet is to consider a suite that won't conflict. User reviews are the best guide to finding good choices.

Full Report
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