Your workstation is your new bank vault, what with all netbanking access details, domestic document scanned copies, personal pictures, conversation, secret roadmap to take over the world among other things stored on it. It is completely understandable if you are worried about keep the data under lock and key, more so when you access the web through a public/shared network.
At a basic level, you need an anti-virus software to ensure better protection. Unfortunately, this can be an expensive deal, especially given the cost of annual updates, and in India paying for software is anathema. But we have anyway gone ahead and have listed the latest software available to protect your device from the ever evolving Trojans, root kits, spyware, adware, ransom ware, and more. Yes, it’s scary out there. These are some of the most user-friendly and oft-used antivirus programs being used by an average consumer in 2016.
Bitdefender Antivirus plus - Rs. 2002.55
Bitdefender automatically keeps your devices safe and clean, and claims to evolve faster than malware. Through, their Autopilot™ technology, Bitdefender silently detects and blocks all cyber-threats, providing protection against identity thefts and professional hackers. The technology is developed by the company keeping in mind that the scanning process doesn’t impact the device’s performance. In 2015, Bitdefender was acknowledged among the best antivirus software out there because of its high performance, security enhancing features, usability and 24/7 technical support.
Kaspersky Anti-Virus - Rs. 4011.11
The program claims to have the ability to seek out and destroy malware. Whether the malware is known or freshly hatched; proving to be the differentiator for this software. It is an entry level security product, yet it includes comparatively more features to other products in this category. Its main feature is its ability of anti-phishing and automatic detection of removable media. As the backbone of your PC’s defenses, it safeguards you from the latest viruses, spyware, worms and more. It’s the easy-to-use security solution that won’t slow you down.
McAfee Antivirus - Rs. 4011.11
The good old McAfee AntiVirus Plus is rich in features and unusually effective at fighting malware and preventing phishing attempts. Though, it is not a complete internet security suite, it includes features beyond typical antivirus software. Protection is the main feature of this software. McAfee Antivirus Plus can be installed on unlimited number of devices without buying an extra license for each. According to tests conducted by AV-Test in July and August of 2015, McAfee beats most top antivirus competitors on listed parameters.
Norton Security Deluxe - Rs. 2673.85
Norton consumer security software for overall protection and performance defends against viruses, spyware, malware, phishing, software vulnerabilities, and other online threats. It offers a bundle of features to its customers to ensure full protection of the device, helps you manage protection for all your devices with an easy-to-use web portal. It also backs up the features with solid performance. The drawback about this software is during tests it has identified legitimate software’s as malware.
F-Secure Anti-Virus - Rs. 2673.85
It is sleek, fast and effective antivirus software, with advanced protection and many integrated security features. It protects the device against viruses, spyware, worms and Trojans. F-Secure also locate and eliminate root kits. It also provides protection over the network; while sending emails, receiving cookies and malware online. With Automatic updates and real-time response, F-secure guarantees the fastest protection against all new threats.