Today, I need to talk about a product that slipped through the cracks earlier this year. Back in September, I gave the nod to
Norton Internet Security 2010 (NIS 2010) as my #1 choice for best all-around PC protection (notwithstanding reports about its lousy tech support.)
That still stands, but a new product is giving it some competition. I'm referring to Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus 2010 (SDAV 2010) by PC Tools.
It's hard to stay on top of the latest security software. I'm always checking lab reports, reviews, comparison tests and more. Very often, the top dog one month might be #2 or #3 (or worse) the next, or a relative unknown might suddenly become the king-of-the-hill. The technology changes that fast!
Until recently, if you asked me which product was best of the breed, I would have said NIS 2010, hands down. Now, PC Tools' Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus 2010 has made it a horse race.
I've always held Spyware Doctor in high regard. In fact, I've recommended the free version that's part of
Google Pack for years. Not long ago, PC Tools added anti-virus protection to the mix, but great anti-spyware software does not necessarily a great security suite make. SDAV failed to distinguish itself.
The latest version, however, offers a feature worth calling to your attention. It works exceptionally well at cleaning existing infestations. Because so many products are a flop in this regard, it makes SDAV 2010 a standout.
Cleaning resident malware, particularly stubborn cases, usually means resorting to Safe Mode, which is accessed on computers running Windows by pressing the F8 key at startup and using the
Advanced Boot Options menu. You can also choose
Diagnostic startup in the System Configuration utility, which can be accessed by typing MSConfig in Start Button -> Run.
Only essential services run in Safe Mode, so some products either can't be installed or won't function. SDAV 2010 thrives in Safe Mode, which is a great, because running in Safe Mode stifles many of the tactics malware employs to counteract removal.
PC Tools also provides an
Alternate Operating System Scanner (AOSS). The downloadable disk image can be used to create bootable CD that runs Linux and allows you to disable even the most stubborn threats. You still need SDAV to remove them, but the AOSS CD gives you a leg up.
Reports say the malware blocking and removal provided by SDAV 2010 exceeds all previous versions.
PC Magazine, in fact, recently gave the software an "Editor's Choice" designation, saying it sets a new benchmark.
PC Tools says using multiple layers of real-time protection, including
ThreatFire Behavioral Intelligence heuristic
detection, is the reason SDAV 2010 is so effective. The approach supposedly yields 100% recognition of known malware and a 99.46% protection rate against yet-to-be-discovered attacks. Rootkit detection and removal is also provided.
The latest version also features
Browser Guard, which stops drive-by scamware attacks, such as fake A-V alerts;
Site Guard, which warns you about phishing sites and other unsafe Internet venues;
Power Saving Mode, which extends battery life by delaying power-intensive actions;
Idle Mode, which automatically runs resource-consuming tasks, such as scans and updates, when you aren’t using your PCs; and
Game Mode, which provides an uninterrupted gaming, movie or presentation experience.
The software is compatible with Microsoft Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7, and its defaults are set for maximum protection, including automated real-time protection, smart updates, and scheduled scans, eliminating the need to decipher cryptic warning messages or tweak a bunch of options.
Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus 2010 has already proved its mettle in my non-scientific testing environment. It rescued a virus-crippled machine I thought was a hopeless case. The software retails for $39.95, which includes a 12-month subscription and protection for up to three PCs. Free 24/7 support via live chat, e-mail, telephone or online forum is also included.
PC Tools is headquartered in Sydney, Australia, with offices in San Francisco and elsewhere in Europe and the U.S. Symantec reportedly owns the company but so far hasn't brought it into the Norton family. I hope this continues, because NIS 2010 and SDAV 2010 are both excellent solutions. For more information, visit
PCTools.com.
RELATED LINKS----------------------
Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware (Free, Paid Upgrade Optional)
AVG Anti-Virus 9.0 Free EditionAvira AntiVir Personal (Free)Spyware Doctor with AV Starter Edition (Google Pack)
