Security software program reviews: Features explained
There are two main types of software to choose from. A free anti-malware software program, or a paid-for security software suite that contains the anti-malware component, a firewall, anti-spam and a lot more.
Read our lab-based reviews to find out the best free and paid-for options to go for.
Here are the features you're likely to come across when considering what to choose.
Anti-malware software
Microsoft Security Essentials warning of a security threat
Threats such as viruses and spyware are often grouped together as malware - malicious software that gets on to your PC without your knowledge and can cause harm. This could result in you losing data or even having your personal details - such as credit card numbers - stolen.
The best security software will catch any hostile programs as they enter your PC and delete or quarantine them in order to prevent them causing harm. And if a threat is already on your computer, then it should be able to detect and remove it.
Microsoft Security Essentials is an anti-malware program available to download free from the Microsoft website.
Firewall
Most paid-for security software suites come with a firewall
A firewall blocks unwanted communication to and from the internet. As a broadband connection is always on, this is essential.
Firewalls check the credentials of every bit of data trying to get into and out of your PC. Some firewalls also enable you to restrict access to certain websites.
A good firewall monitors data entering and leaving your computer. So if malware manages to sneak through and is attempting to send your bank account details to a hacker outside, the firewall has a second chance to catch it on the way out.
If it detects something suspicious, like an unfamiliar program trying to access the internet, it pops up an alert message.
A good firewall package should run unobtrusively in the background, only popping up if it needs your permission to let a piece of software access the internet.
Windows 7 has a strong firewall built-in.
Anti-phishing software
This security software feature maintains internet security by blocking potentially fraudulent websites that are designed to trick you into entering your personal information - a fake bank website for example..
The most recent internet browsers and webmail services like Hotmail already have anti-phishing features built-in.
Anti-spam software
Anti-spam stops unwanted junk or 'spam' emails. It is usually designed to work with Microsoft Outlook and Windows Live Mail programs.
These programs already have anti-spam features built-in. In any case, webmail services usually have strong anti-spam protection.
Need help understanding computer security jargon? See our guide to understanding PC security terms.
Backup software
Dropbox is one of many online backup services
Some internet security suites now include backup software to help you keep copies of important files and folders such as digital photos and home movies.
This can be useful, but storage space is quite limited. Dedicated backup services are usually better if you have need more storage space. Alternatively consider Windows Live SkyDrive that offers 25GB of free storage.
Networking
Often when you buy security software, you get a licence to use it on three computers. A networking feature allows you to control the security settings remotely on all three computers.
Parental control software
Norton Online Family is free to use
Good parental control software allows you to limit and manage your child's internet use.
You can ensure that your child only visits approved websites, set time limits on how long your children can use the web each day and manage game playing allowances.
Windows 7 has free parental control features built-in. Norton Online Family is another free program.
Tune-up
Some security software contains a program that cleans up unnecessary files on your computer. Windows 7 has its own tools to help keep your computer running smoothly.
