device protection Archives

Tech Optimizer

February 18, 2025

Microsoft Defender vs. McAfee: Features, Pricing, Pros & Cons

eSecurity Planet maintains editorial independence and may earn revenue from partner links. Microsoft Defender, a free built-in antivirus for Windows, offers minimal configuration and supports Windows 10 and 11, while McAfee, which holds a 12.47% share of the global antivirus market, provides extensive privacy monitoring and data protection across multiple platforms (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS) with various pricing plans ranging from .99 to 9.99. Microsoft Defender supports a single device and includes features like real-time threat protection, parental controls, and a firewall, but lacks advanced features like VPN and identity theft monitoring. McAfee offers a wider range of features, including a VPN, identity theft monitoring, and data cleanup, making it a more comprehensive solution despite its higher cost. Microsoft Defender has an overall rating of 3.8/5, while McAfee rates 4.4/5, excelling in customer support with multiple channels, including live chat and phone support. Microsoft Defender is suitable for users on a budget, while McAfee is better for those needing robust privacy and identity protection. Alternatives to consider include Norton, Bitdefender, and Malwarebytes.

Tech Optimizer

February 11, 2025

Best Antivirus Software for 2025: Top Picks for Protection

In 2025, the top antivirus software options include: - McAfee Plus Premium: Best overall protection with unlimited device coverage, perfect scores in AV-Test evaluations, includes a VPN and password manager. Price: .99 for the first year, 9.99 annually thereafter. - Bitdefender Ultimate Security: Best for Windows users, offers comprehensive protection with a VPN and anti-fraud tools. Price: .99 for the first year, .99 annually thereafter, covering up to 10 devices. - Norton 360 with LifeLock Select: Best for cross-platform security, includes a VPN, password manager, and identity theft protection. Price: .99 per year for 10 devices, with an introductory offer of .99 for the first year. - AVG Internet Security: Best for advanced customization, includes firewall and webcam protection. Price: .99 for the first year, .99 annually thereafter for 10 devices. - Avira Free Antivirus: Best free antivirus option, providing essential protection against online threats. The paid version, Avira Internet Security, costs .99 for the first year and .99 annually thereafter for one device.

Tech Optimizer

February 9, 2025

The Best Antivirus Software For 2025

The necessity for robust antivirus software has become imperative due to the rise of malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and zero-day exploits, which pose significant risks to personal data and system performance. Modern antivirus programs utilize artificial intelligence, machine learning, and real-time behavioral analysis to identify emerging threats. They offer features such as encrypted browsing, webcam and microphone protection, identity theft monitoring, and built-in VPN services. Key factors for selecting antivirus solutions include detection rates, system impact, and additional features like file encryption and dark web monitoring. The eleven best antivirus options for 2025 include: 1. Norton 360 Deluxe 2025 | 5 Devices: Fast scanning, built-in VPN, cloud backup; requires annual subscription, limited VPN locations, higher price. 2. McAfee Total Protection 3-Device 2025: Advanced AI threat detection, automatic VPN; setup requires credit card, complicated activation, higher renewal pricing. 3. McAfee Total Protection | 5-Device 2025: Smart AI protection, built-in VPN; VPN may slow internet, dated interface. 4. McAfee+ Premium Individual Unlimited Devices 2025: Smart AI technology, unlimited VPN; cluttered interface, some features need configuration. 5. Norton 360 Deluxe 2025 | 3 Devices: Excellent malware detection, built-in VPN; frequent promotional pop-ups, higher renewal price. 6. Malwarebytes Premium Security – 2 Device: Powerful scanning tools, real-time ransomware protection; higher price, limited iOS features. 7. McAfee AntiVirus 2025 – 1 Device: Fast malware scanning, intuitive interface; renewal issues, frequent marketing notifications. 8. Norton 360 Premium 2025 – 10 Devices: Comprehensive protection, includes VPN; tricky auto-renewal, higher price. 9. Webroot Internet Security Complete 2025 – 5 Device: Fast scans, minimal system load; higher renewal prices, special installer for Windows 7. 10. Bitdefender Total Security 2025 (5 Device): Outstanding malware protection, minimal system impact; VPN limited to 200MB daily, complex interface. 11. Malwarebytes Premium 2025 | 5 Device: Excellent malware detection, user-friendly; slow premium support, lacks advanced customization. Choosing the right antivirus software involves evaluating features such as real-time protection, privacy features, malware detection rates, system performance impact, update frequency, and customer support availability. Pricing structures vary, with tiers offering different levels of protection and features.

TrendTechie

February 5, 2025

The Best VPN for uTorrent in 2025

uTorrent is a popular platform for peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing, known for its user-friendly interface and efficient performance. However, downloading torrents can expose users' IP addresses, making them vulnerable to monitoring by ISPs, hackers, and copyright enforcement agencies. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can protect users by concealing their IP addresses, encrypting internet traffic, and preventing ISP throttling. The best VPNs for uTorrent in 2025 include: 1. **NordVPN**: Offers high-speed P2P servers, robust privacy features, and a user-friendly interface. It has over 6,800 servers in 111 countries, dedicated P2P servers, and advanced security measures including AES-256 encryption. 2. **ExpressVPN**: Features a network optimized for torrenting, with over 3,000 servers in 105 countries. It provides strong privacy protections and consistently high download speeds. 3. **Private Internet Access (PIA)**: Known for its affordability and a massive server network that supports P2P traffic on all servers. It allows unlimited simultaneous connections and employs strong security measures. Free VPNs are generally discouraged for torrenting due to limitations such as slow speeds, weak security features, and potential data logging. Proton VPN is an exception but lacks P2P support on its free plan. Using a VPN with uTorrent helps protect identity, bypass ISP throttling, avoid legal troubles, prevent malware, and access restricted content. To use uTorrent with a VPN like NordVPN, users should download and install the VPN, connect to a P2P-optimized server, and then launch uTorrent to begin downloading securely.

AppWizard

February 2, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: Majesty Kingdom, Tokaido, Homo Machina, Nerd Survivors, more

A new wave of offers on Android games and apps has emerged, featuring notable titles such as Majesty: The Fantasy Kingdom, Tokaido, Homo Machina, Nerd Survivors, and Charterstone. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is available at a discount of 0, and there are pre-order discounts on the S25 model. Samsung Galaxy Arc Pulse Bumper cases are discounted by up to 50%, and a 3-in-1 charging station is priced at .99. Nest indoor smart cameras have prices starting from .99.

Tech Optimizer

November 27, 2024

Norton 360 Deluxe is 75% off in this Black Friday deal — protect 5 PCs, Macs tablets or phones for just $30

Norton is offering significant discounts on its antivirus products during the holiday shopping season. Norton 360 Deluxe is available at a 75% discount, allowing protection for up to five devices for a full year. This package includes features such as a 100% Virus Protection Promise, parental controls, 50GB of secure cloud storage, a password manager, VPN services, and dark web monitoring. Norton AntiVirus Plus is offered at a 66% discount for single-device protection. Norton 360 with LifeLock Select Plus protects up to 10 devices and includes identity theft protection services. Additionally, Norton Secure VPN is available at a 75% discount for up to five devices.

Tech Optimizer

October 18, 2024

How to secure your devices: Updates, antivirus and mobile protection

Safeguarding devices against cyber threats is essential due to the sensitive personal and financial information they contain. Key security measures include regular software updates, robust antivirus solutions, and protective strategies for mobile devices. To update software and operating systems, users can enable automatic updates in Windows by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and turning on “Automatic Updates.” For macOS, users can go to System Preferences > Software Update and check the box for “Automatically keep my Mac up to date.” Manual checks for updates can be done in both systems through their respective update settings. Antivirus software targets traditional viruses, while anti-malware addresses a wider range of threats. When choosing security software, consider detection rates, system impact, and user interface. Regular scans can be scheduled through the antivirus software's dashboard, and both automatic updates and manual checks should be performed to ensure the latest virus definitions are used. For mobile device security, setting up screen locks is crucial. Android users can set this up in Settings > Security, while iOS users can do so in Settings > Face ID & Passcode or Touch ID & Passcode. Managing app permissions and keeping apps updated are also important for privacy and security. Users should regularly review app permissions and enable automatic updates in their app store settings. To protect against lost or stolen devices, users should activate the “Find My Device/App” feature available on both Android and iOS platforms, allowing them to track, lock, or erase their device remotely.

AppWizard

October 18, 2024

Google Confirms Play Store Update—Disabling Apps Starts In Next 10 Weeks

Android 15 has been released for Pixel devices, focusing on security and privacy enhancements. A key upcoming feature is Google Play’s live threat detection, which will analyze app behavior for suspicious activity and potentially disable harmful apps. Google Play Protect currently scans 200 billion apps daily, and the new feature will enhance fraud detection using on-device AI while maintaining user privacy. Google has mandated the use of the Photo Picker API, requiring apps to justify broad access to photo and video permissions. Developers must submit a declaration form to retain such permissions, with a deadline at the end of September. Failure to comply will prevent app updates on the Play Store. Google plans to enforce this policy strictly, addressing permission abuse highlighted in recent reports. The live threat detection feature is expected to roll out later this year.

Tech Optimizer

October 10, 2024

Best Anti-Malware Software for Mac 2025

Cyber threats are increasingly targeting macOS, making it essential for Mac users to invest in dedicated anti-malware and antivirus software in 2025. Anti-malware software detects, prevents, and eliminates a broader range of threats, including spyware, adware, ransomware, and trojans, while antivirus software primarily focuses on viruses. Both types of software aim to protect devices from harmful threats but operate differently. Antivirus software relies on signature-based detection, which may not be effective against newer threats, whereas anti-malware software uses heuristic and behavioral analyses for broader protection. Combining both solutions offers comprehensive defense against various cyber threats. The six best anti-malware software options for Macs in 2025 include: 1. Norton 360 Deluxe: Comprehensive protection with a VPN and password manager. 2. Intego Mac Internet Security: Designed specifically for macOS with strong malware detection. 3. Total AV: User-friendly with effective malware protection and system optimization tools. 4. Avast: Free version available with essential features, but privacy concerns exist. 5. Bitdefender: Powerful malware detection with minimal system impact. 6. McAfee: Strong protection with multi-device support but a cluttered interface. The six best antivirus software options for Macs in 2025 include: 1. Bitdefender Antivirus: Robust malware detection with real-time protection. 2. Intego Mac Internet Security: Comprehensive tools tailored for macOS. 3. Norton 360 Deluxe: Advanced threat detection with additional features. 4. Avast One Gold: Combines antivirus protection with privacy tools. 5. Trend Micro Antivirus: Strong malware protection with enhanced online banking security. 6. Malwarebytes Premium Security: Efficient malware detection and removal. Key features to consider in anti-malware software include real-time protection, heuristic analysis, signature-based detection, behavioral analysis, web protection, email protection, firewall integration, anti-spyware, ransomware protection, cloud-based protection, data backup, and privacy protection.

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.