How to Analyze an Anti-Virus ?

It is vital to properly analyze an anti-virus program before you decide to spend your hard-earned cash on one--after all, it will be a vital line of defense for your system. There are a number of factors you should consider when looking at an anti-virus in order to ensure that you buy a product that can serve all your needs, from battling spyware to a money-back guarantee in case of disappointment.

Instructions

Look at how much the anti-virus will cost. Different products can range from $39.99 (McAfee's cheapest home-security package, September 2010) to over $60 (Kaspersky Pure, September 2010.) There are also free anti-virus programs on the market, but they can be less reliable and offer less customer support.


Consider the level of support the anti-virus software offers. This will be outlined among the features on the back of the box or on the product's website. An ideal anti-virus product will offer live chat support, no-charge telephone support and email support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Make sure the anti-virus software is compatible with your version of Windows. As an example, the latest iteration of Kaspersky anti-virus is not compatible with a Windows operating system as recent as Windows 2000, so make sure your choice is supported by your version of Windows.


Ask whether your chosen anti-virus software will receive regular updates. This is vital to ensuring your anti-virus stays up to date in the fight against new malicious files. Regular updates are essential, as viruses and spyware are always evolving.

Check whether your choice includes anti-spyware capabilities. A good program will fight threats from viruses, Trojans and worms as well as protecting your computer against easier-to-spot viruses.


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