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Tech Optimizer

April 7, 2025

Scanguard

Scanguard is owned by Total Security LTD and offers a comprehensive security and optimization suite that includes virus protection, system performance improvements, junk file removal, a password vault, and a VPN. Its security features include real-time protection against malware, ransomware, spyware, and adware, facilitated by specialized guards. A free version is available for Windows, but it has limitations regarding update speed. The initial scan on a 512 GB SSD takes under five minutes and covers various checks. The app prompts users to upgrade for certain features, although discounts are available for first-time users. Core features include Malware Guard, Ransomware Guard, Spyware Guard, Aware Guard, and WebShield for real-time protection against malicious sites. Scanguard also offers identity theft protection services and a system optimizer that cleans junk files and manages applications. An Android app is available, but there is no iPhone app, and the Android version must be downloaded from the Scanguard website. Scanguard's pricing includes a free version and a paid plan with a promotional rate for the first year, with payment through PayPal. The paid plan offers real-time protection, cloud-based threat detection, and customer support. Recent evaluations show a detection rate of 96.94% in a VB100 test, with a 0.000% false alarm rate, but it is not currently VB100 certified. The user interface is modern and intuitive, though the installation process may take time due to database updates.

Winsage

March 26, 2025

Lilbits: AI-enhanced search for Windows PCs and Amazon’s Big Spring Sale

Recent advancements in laptop technology have introduced high-performance neural processing units from manufacturers like Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm, enabling on-device artificial intelligence applications. Microsoft initially planned to launch its Recall feature for Copilot+ PCs but delayed it due to privacy concerns. Microsoft is now testing a new AI-enhanced search function that allows users to search for files, settings, or documents by description. Additionally, Microsoft is rolling out Local Semantic Search to Windows Insiders with Intel or AMD-powered Copilot+ PCs, which allows searching by description in File Explorer, Windows Search, or Settings, and can be disabled for certain folders.

Tech Optimizer

March 17, 2025

F-Secure Internet Security

F-Secure Internet Security provides coverage for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS platforms, but its features are more limited compared to competitors like Bitdefender Total Security and Norton 360 Deluxe. The pricing starts at .99 per year for a single license, with options for up to 25 licenses, making it competitive in the market. F-Secure has received a perfect score of 18 points from AV-Test Institute for malware protection, performance impact, and usability. In testing, F-Secure achieved a malware detection rate of 97% and a phishing detection rate of 94%. The software includes features like banking protection, scam protection, and parental controls, though the latter lacks the depth found in some competitors. The installation process is user-friendly across all platforms, but the macOS, Android, and iOS versions have fewer advanced features compared to other security suites.

Tech Optimizer

March 17, 2025

F-Secure Internet Security for Mac

F-Secure Internet Security for Mac provides essential malware protection, including quarantine capabilities and safeguards against future attacks, but lacks features compared to competitors like Norton 360 Deluxe and Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. Its pricing structure includes .99 for one license, .99 for three, and .99 for five licenses, with options for up to 25 devices at 4.99 annually. F-Secure requires macOS 12 or later and has been rated excellent by AV-Test Institute, achieving a perfect score of 18 in recent macOS tests. The software offers a quick virus scan and custom scan options but does not include scheduled scanning. It successfully quarantines 82% of Windows malware samples and scores 94% in phishing detection. F-Secure includes parental controls for managing children's online activities and features scam protection similar to its Windows version.

Winsage

March 13, 2025

Lilbits: Microsoft keeps adding AI to Notepad, a fix for broken Chromecasts, and Android 16 Beta 3

Microsoft Notepad has introduced new features, including a spell checker and an AI-powered Rewrite utility, aimed at enhancing user experience. The latest update includes a Summarize tool for generating concise summaries of selected text, available to Windows Insiders with a Microsoft account and a subscription to Microsoft 365 or Copilot Pro. Notepad version 11.2501.29.0 is rolling out in the Canary and Dev Channels on Windows 11. Additionally, the Windows Snipping Tool (version 11.2502.18.0) has been updated to allow users to draw straight lines during screen capture annotations. Android 16 Beta 3 is introducing "platform stability" and accessibility enhancements. Google is working on a fix for 2015 Chromecast devices affected by an expired certificate.

Tech Optimizer

November 27, 2024

Top 5 Free Antivirus Protection Programs (2025)

Free antivirus software provides essential protection against viruses, malware, and online threats without cost. Key features often include real-time scanning, automated updates, and basic security measures. Notable free antivirus programs for 2025 include: - Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition: Offers real-time protection, on-demand scanning, and anti-phishing features with low system impact. - Avira Free Security: Includes real-time protection, web protection, a VPN, a password manager, and a system optimizer. - Sophos Home Free: A cloud-managed solution that uses AI for threat detection and includes parental controls. - AVG AntiVirus Free: Known for reliable protection against malware and includes a ransomware decryption tool. - Microsoft Defender: Built into Windows, it provides decent protection and receives regular updates. Choosing the right antivirus depends on individual needs; options vary in features and performance impact. Free antivirus programs typically lack advanced features found in paid versions, such as comprehensive malware detection, firewall protection, and priority customer support. Independent labs test antivirus software for effectiveness, focusing on detection rates, false positives, and performance impact. Some free antivirus tools offer additional features like password managers and limited VPN access, but many advanced functions require payment. Overall, while free antivirus solutions may not be as comprehensive as paid options, they still provide solid protection for everyday users.

Tech Optimizer

October 9, 2024

A Full NordVPN Threat Protection Review — Features, Pricing, Alternatives

NordVPN Threat Protection offers two versions: Threat Protection and Threat Protection Pro. Threat Protection is a DNS-based tool that blocks ads, trackers, and harmful websites while connected to a NordVPN server, available on multiple devices including Android, iOS, and Linux. Threat Protection Pro is a more advanced version for Windows and macOS, providing protection even without an active VPN connection. Pros of Threat Protection include its bundling with NordVPN, a 30-day money-back guarantee, effective malware site blocking, an ad blocker, and advanced URL trimming. However, the Pro version is limited to Windows and macOS, consumes more system resources, and lacks support for mobile devices. Threat Protection Pro features include web protection, ad blocking, web tracker blocking, file protection, vulnerability detection, and URL trimming. It excels at blocking malicious websites and phishing domains, scanning downloads for malware, and identifying risky applications. Pricing for Threat Protection Pro varies by plan, with the Basic plan not including it, while the Plus and Ultimate plans do. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Threat Protection Pro has received favorable reviews for its integration with NordVPN, though some users have reported glitches, particularly on Mac. It is recommended for desktop users seeking additional security without full antivirus software.

Tech Optimizer

September 25, 2024

PC Matic vs Norton Antivirus: Feature Comparisons

eSecurity Planet emphasizes its editorial independence and potential revenue through affiliate links. PC Matic and Norton are notable security providers for consumers and small businesses, offering antivirus and antimalware services. PC Matic is ideal for families with multiple devices, while Norton is better suited for home offices and entrepreneurs. PC Matic pricing starts at annually for five devices, while Norton pricing begins at .99 annually for one device. Both support Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. PC Matic supports 5-15 devices depending on the plan, while Norton supports 1-10 devices. Both offer automated updates and VPN features, but PC Matic lacks a firewall. Norton is rated higher overall, with a score of 4.2/5 compared to PC Matic's 3.7/5. Norton provides a comprehensive suite of security features, including a password manager and dark web monitoring, while PC Matic focuses on ease of use and administration. PC Matic offers a free antivirus plan but lacks a native firewall and Linux support. Norton has responsive support and affordable pricing but does not support large families or Linux. Key features of PC Matic include VPN security, ad blocking, and cloud backup, while Norton offers advanced features like identity theft protection and intrusion prevention. Alternatives to consider include Bitdefender, Malwarebytes, and McAfee, each providing various security solutions tailored to different needs. The evaluation of PC Matic and Norton was based on pricing, core features, advanced capabilities, usability, and customer support.

Winsage

August 16, 2024

Google might be cutting support for ‘the world’s most popular ad-blocker,’ but this Windows Registry trick will help Chrome and Edge users keep intrusive ads at bay for a year longer

Google is transitioning to the Manifest V3 framework for Chrome, phasing out support for classic extensions, which will affect over 30 million users and disrupt the functionality of the ad blocker uBlock Origin. uBlock Origin Lite will be available but will lack essential features. A workaround exists to extend support for classic extensions by one year using the ExtensionManifestV2Availability policy through the Windows Registry, though caution is advised due to potential risks. Mozilla's Firefox will continue to support the Manifest V2 framework. Steps to implement the workaround include modifying the registry and verifying the policy in Chrome, with a PC restart required to apply changes, allowing classic extensions to function until June 2025.