When you seek a security suite for your computer, you want one that can do it all, protecting your system from spyware, viruses, and hackers. Fortunately, many programs on the market can do all or most of these jobs, though you may have to pay to get the best security suite for your computer. Consider a mixture of the best paid and free security suites for 2012, keeping in mind that the prices may vary depending on where you shop.
1. Norton Internet Security 2012-$69.99 for use on 3 computers
Norton has long been a trusted name when it comes to security suites for computers, and this product is no exception. This can protect your system from viruses and spyware constantly, and features a two-way firewall that can help prevent identity theft. There is also antiphishing technology, so either untrustworthy websites will be automatically blocked, or you will get a message that the site is unsafe so you should exit. You will even be protected when you use Facebook, as a special feature checks out your newsfeed as you scroll so that you can be warned of any dangerous downloads that would negatively affect you or your Facebook friends.
2. ZoneAlarm Security Suite 2012- $79.99 for use on 3 computers
This security suite works as an antivirus, spyware, and two-way firewall all in one, offering you complete protection for your computer. Like similar security suites on the market, this program can identify and remove Trojans, spyware, viruses, and harmful bots. Its firewall is powerful enough to stop threats that many programs never even notice. This program also features parental controls, anti-spam technology, and online backup of your important files.
3. McAfee Internet Security Suite 2012- $39.99 for use on 3 computers
This popular program can protect your system from viruses, spyware, hackers, and Trojans. The scans are known for being fast, and the two-way firewall can prevent hackers from stealing your private information. Anti-spam tools, parental controls, and online backup up to 1 GB also come with this security suite.
4. AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 2012 – Free to download
If you are looking for a free way to protect your computer, this is it, especially if you want to block those bothersome fake antivirus programs that sneak onto your system. LinkScanner, which is unique to AVG, scans links before you click on them, so your chance of inviting a fake antivirus onto your system is much lower than usual. The PC Analyzer that is included can scan the computer for disk and Registry errors. If you upgrade to the paid version of this suite, you will get a firewall, an anti-spam tool, and 24/7 telephone support.
5. Avast Free Antivirus- Free to download
This is another free security option, though you have to pay for the full version if you want a firewall or parental controls. But if you just want to keep your system safe from spyware, viruses, and hackers, this may be the program for you. One unique feature is AutoSandbox, which carefully monitors suspicious programs, making sure none of the files suddenly change or appear to be threatening. You can allow this feature to automatically pick out possible threats, or you can request that it keep an eye on a few programs in particular. You can also add the free feature WebRep to your browser to keep you safe as you visit websites.
