Group test: Internet security suites

Life on the Internet just isn’t safe. Every day there’s more to worry about: hackers, viruses, spyware, email scams, spam, phishing, ID theft, Wifi exploits, the list goes on.

Fortunately, there’s plenty of software out there to help protect you from such unscrupulous individuals and malware, but do you really have the time to keep track of it all?

The hassle-free approach to securing your computer is to install an all-in-one Internet security suite. Look at the benefits. First, they’re much cheaper than buying the components separately.

Second, not only will they provide one simple installation and a single user interface for all components, but also the tedium of keeping them up to date usually happens in one centralised, automated process, which is a much tidier solution than having several distinct programs all updating themselves at different times.

You also get to receive all your up-to-date information about current threats and virus outbreaks all in one place.

We’ve chosen to look at six of the most popular Internet security suites on the market. All of them contain a firewall and anti-virus program as a minimum, but some also provide protection against identity theft, anti-spam software and parental controls, while those with dedicated Wifi support will keep you secure while surfing in public hotspots.

With yearly subscriptions ranging from £38 to £54.99 there are various combinations of utilities to suit different requirements and budgets for novices and experts alike.

We’ve rounded up six key security suites and put them to the test to see what’s best for you and what to avoid.

This article is part of a group test of internet security suites. Others are:
Intro and Editor's choice
Symantec Norton Internet Security 2006
Zonelabs Zonealarm Internet Security Suite 6
For other products in this group test, see the PDF links

Editor's choice: page 2

Like this story? Spread the news by clicking below:

 del.icio.us     Digg this     reddit!