test results Archives

Tech Optimizer

May 20, 2025

Running I/O intensive workloads on PostgreSQL with Amazon EBS io2 Block Express

Databases are essential for organizations, and their performance is critical to user experience and operational efficiency. AWS introduced Amazon Elastic Block Store (Amazon EBS) io2 Block Express in December 2020 to address performance issues related to storage latency during database operations. This solution enhances storage management for high-performance database servers, supporting up to 256,000 IOPS and 4,000 MiB/s throughput per volume, with a maximum volume size of 64 TiB and sub-millisecond disk I/O latency. A performance comparison was conducted between PostgreSQL databases on Amazon EBS gp3 and io2 Block Express, utilizing the HammerDB benchmarking tool. The analysis involved four tests: OLTP Load test, OLTP Stress test, OLAP Load test, and OLAP Stress test, using r5b.24xlarge EC2 instances. Results indicated that io2 Block Express outperformed gp3 by 2.08 times in transactions per minute (TPM) and provided significantly lower latency for both OLTP and OLAP workloads. Key differences between gp3 and io2 Block Express include durability, with io2 offering 99.999% durability compared to gp3's 99.8% – 99.9%. The maximum IOPS for gp3 is 16,000, while io2 supports up to 64,000 IOPS. Pricing for gp3 is approximately ,375.36/month, while io2 Block Express costs around ,408/month, reflecting its premium performance capabilities. In benchmarking tests, io2 Block Express demonstrated superior performance, achieving 3.95 times faster average performance than gp3 across all scenarios. It is particularly suitable for mission-critical applications requiring consistent sub-millisecond latency and high durability.

Tech Optimizer

May 17, 2025

Do You Really Need Antivirus on Windows 11? Probably Not—Here’s Why

Windows 11 has robust built-in security features that may reduce the need for third-party antivirus software. Windows Security now offers comprehensive protection, including real-time malware detection, firewall protection, SmartScreen alerts, hardware-level security, account monitoring, and system health reports. According to AV-TEST results from January and February 2025, Microsoft Defender Antivirus scored 6.0/6.0 in protection, performance, and usability, effectively stopping advanced malware and phishing attempts with minimal system resource usage. Users of Microsoft Edge benefit from SmartScreen filtering, while those using other browsers receive system notifications for network protection. Basic digital hygiene practices, such as avoiding suspicious downloads and keeping software updated, are crucial for security. Third-party antivirus solutions may offer additional features but can lead to performance issues and privacy concerns. For casual users who maintain their systems and practice safe browsing, Windows Security is generally sufficient, while those handling sensitive information or needing advanced features may consider premium antivirus options.

AppWizard

May 11, 2025

I just tested Doom: The Dark Ages on an RTX 5090 PC — and I’m still in shock

Doom: The Dark Ages was tested on an Alienware Area-51 gaming PC with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090, achieving 155 frames per second at Ultra Nightmare settings and 4K resolution without DLSS. With DLSS 4 x4 activated, the frame rate increased to 344 fps. The Alienware setup included an Intel Ultra Core 9 285K CPU, 64GB of RAM, and a 2TB SSD. Testing with other RTX 50 series cards showed the RTX 5060 Ti reached 153 fps at 4K with DLSS 4, while the RTX 5070 Ti achieved 185 fps with DLSS 4. Performance results for various RTX 50 cards at different settings were provided, highlighting their capabilities.

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.