test results Archives

Tech Optimizer

April 14, 2025

Malwarebytes named “Best Antivirus Software” and “Best Malware Removal Service”

Malwarebytes has been recognized in 2025 with several accolades: it is listed as PCMag’s “Best Antivirus Software for 2025,” “Best Malware Removal Service 2025” by CNET, and awarded “Best Protection Software 2025” by PCMag. The evaluations included real-world testing and independent lab assessments, highlighting Malwarebytes Premium's speed, effectiveness, and top-tier malware removal capabilities. CNET noted its easy-to-use, customizable interface.

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

February 28, 2025

TopTen Best Software Launches “The Ultimate Antivirus Buyer’s Guide” to Empower Consumers with Informed Security Choices

California-based TopTen Best Software has released "The Ultimate Antivirus Buyer's Guide: Tips for Choosing the Right Protection" to help users make informed decisions about antivirus software. The guide emphasizes understanding individual needs, recommending basic antivirus for casual users, multi-device coverage for small businesses, lightweight options for gamers, and software with parental controls for families. Key features to consider include real-time scanning, firewall protection, anti-phishing tools, VPN services, and password managers. Compatibility with operating systems and user experience are important factors, along with reliable customer support and independent lab test results. The guide advises comparing pricing and exploring free trials, highlighting that paid versions often offer better protection. Regular software updates are essential for optimal security, and TopTen Best Software provides side-by-side comparisons of antivirus products.

Tech Optimizer

December 7, 2024

Eset Premium review: 2024 improvements aren’t enough

Eset Premium is a cybersecurity solution launched in 2024, noted for its speed and effectiveness as an antivirus. It offers excellent malware protection, flexible plans for multiple devices, a quick installation process, and live chat support available 11 hours on weekdays. However, it has a poor track record prior to 2024, relatively high pricing, and issues with chatbot errors regarding live agent availability. Eset Premium supports multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, and offers three subscription tiers: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate, with varying features and pricing. The Essential plan provides real-time malware protection, while the Premium tier adds a password manager and ransomware protection. The Ultimate plan includes additional features like an unlimited VPN and dark web monitoring. The installation process is user-friendly, allowing for customization and an initial scan for malware. Eset Premium's design is clean, but the options can be overwhelming. Independent tests show strong performance in 2024, but the software had a weak track record in previous years, earning only a single star in real-time malware protection tests conducted in mid-2023. Eset provides 24/7 technical support through an AI chatbot, with live chat support available during business hours. The company assures users that their data is used solely for service provision, although there was a reported breach involving a partner company that targeted Eset customers.

Tech Optimizer

December 3, 2024

AV-Comparatives Announces 2024 Phishing Test Results: Avast and McAfee Excel in Yearly Assessment

AV-Comparatives conducted an evaluation of phishing protection in 2024, examining 1,000 phishing URLs across four quarterly assessments. Avast and McAfee achieved detection rates of 95%, though McAfee had a higher incidence of false positives. The evaluation included various antivirus programs and web browsers, with Avast leading the final quarterly test with a 95% detection rate on 250 phishing URLs. Other notable performers included Bitdefender, Kaspersky, McAfee, and Trend Micro, with G Data and Kaspersky also scoring above 90%. Phishing remains a significant cyber threat, leading to potential financial losses and identity theft. AV-Comparatives is an independent testing laboratory recognized for its assessments of cybersecurity products.

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

November 20, 2024

Norton AntiVirus Plus

PCMag editors independently select and review products, earning commissions through affiliate links. Norton AntiVirus Plus is a comprehensive antivirus solution that includes features such as a firewall, cloud-based backup, a password manager, and ransomware protection. It is priced at .99 per year for a single license and has recently introduced a five-license option for .99 per year. Norton offers a Virus Protection Promise, providing remote assistance for malware removal and a refund if unsuccessful. The software is part of the Gen stack, which combines technologies from Norton, Avast, and AVG. Installation is user-friendly, and the interface has been modernized. Norton provides various scanning options, including Quick, Full, Targeted, and Smart Scan. Independent lab tests have consistently rated Norton highly, with an AAA certification from SE Labs and a perfect score from AV-Test Institute. Norton achieved a 99% protection rate against recent malware-hosting URLs and blocked 99% of phishing sites in testing. The software includes a Data Protector feature for ransomware defense, a comprehensive firewall, exploit protection, and cloud backup with 2GB of storage. It also features a Software Updater and tools for managing system performance. Norton AntiVirus Plus has received high marks in evaluations, solidifying its status as an Editors’ Choice winner alongside Bitdefender AntiVirus Plus.

AppWizard

November 19, 2024

Steam Link Android app adds AV1, HDR support

The Steam Link Android app has been updated to support over 500 new Android devices and now includes AV1 video streaming support for high-quality streaming from high-end PCs. The AV1 codec enhances video quality while reducing bandwidth usage, which is beneficial for users with poor network conditions. The update also adds HDR streaming support for Windows users, allowing enhanced 1080p or 4K streaming options. Valve has implemented a settings recommendation system based on network tests to help users optimize their streaming experience. Other improvements include better compatibility with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, resolutions for surround sound issues on Android TV, and the ability to disable low-latency audio. The update is being rolled out, and Steam Link v1.3.12 can be downloaded from official sources, though some Android TV devices may not support AV1 streaming. Users need a capable PC to utilize HDR, AV1, or surround sound audio features. The update also introduces a new Wi-Fi Lock setting to reduce streaming interruptions.

Tech Optimizer

November 7, 2024

TotalAV vs PCProtect: Which Is the Best Antivirus?

TotalAV offers superior protection and user experience compared to PCProtect, with affordability enhancing its appeal. TotalAV blocked all prepared malware samples and nine out of ten wild samples in tests, while PCProtect missed two prepared and three wild samples, achieving a 75% effectiveness score. TotalAV features an intuitive interface, effective password manager, and superior VPN, while PCProtect's interface could benefit from redesign. TotalAV provides three pricing options, with the basic version covering four devices, making it more cost-effective than PCProtect, which is available for three devices. Both antivirus programs support Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. TotalAV has received high ratings from AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives, while PCProtect has not been evaluated by leading cybersecurity firms.

Tech Optimizer

October 29, 2024

Comparing Antivirus Software 2025: Avast vs. AVG

Avast and AVG are antivirus software products developed by Avast Software s.r.o. Both platforms have similar pricing structures, with Avast priced at .99 per year for the first year and .99 for subsequent years, while AVG is priced at .88 for the first year and .99 for subsequent years. They support Windows, MacOS, and Android, and can protect up to 10 devices. Both offer a firewall and have a malware detection rate of 100% according to AV-Test.org's August 2024 Windows test. Avast has an overall rating of 2.5/5, with specific ratings of 2/5 for pricing, 5/5 for core features, 3/5 for advanced features, 2/5 for customer support, 4/5 for impact on device performance, and 0/5 for trustworthiness. AVG shares the same overall rating and similar scores in the same categories. Both platforms have a history of monetizing user data, with Avast facing an FTC order in 2024 and a .5 million fine for data practices. Neither platform offers antivirus solutions for iOS. Alternatives to consider include Microsoft Defender and Malwarebytes, which provide competitive features and pricing.