Last Updated on December 6, 2020 by Matt

A Review of the Best Desktop Security Software

The internet is a haven for business, pleasure, and unfortunately, malicious programs.  If you chance up on a website or an email that contains malware, you’re in for a very unpleasant surprise.  The harmful programs will corrupt your files and damage the system.  You’ll end up reformatting your computer, which means everything, save the desktop and the default programs, will be erased.  Desktop security software must be installed, to curb malware and its effects.

The Proponents of Desktop Security

Desktop security, contrary to what its name suggests, can be used for various types of computers, which include laptops and notebook computers when using mobile internet.  It is composed of either various programs or a single consolidating program designed to detect and remove all types of malware, like viruses and spyware.  To give you a clearer picture, here are the different forms of desktop security:

• Antivirus
• Antispyware
• Firewall
• Pop-up Blocker
• Email Phishing Filter
• Desktop Security Program (contains most, if not all, means of computer security)

Ideally, each of the programs should work as a single cohesive unit, singling out all of the malicious programs embedded in the computer system.  All of them should have exceptional levels of detection and cleaning power, since many forms of malware are tough and are programmed to corrupt security programs, immediately.

The Best Desktop Security Programs

Lots of security programs are out on the market or on the internet, but not all of them can efficiently protect your computer.  Some are not built to detect or clean the latest viruses and spyware, while others take awhile before updates arrive.  If you don’t have a potent security program, viruses and advanced spyware can easily overrun your computer’s defense.  You should only settle for the best.

Bit Defender

Bit Defender is one of the leading brands of desktop security programs.  During the past year, until now, it continues to impress users and critics with its ability to ward off malware and clean many types of malicious programs, if they manage to penetrate the firewall.  All of its security applications are very efficient, especially its antivirus and firewall.

It thoroughly searches your files, including plug and play hardware, reads the programming framework, and then weeds out the harmful programs.  Once isolated, Bit Defender flushes them out.  The firewall is nearly impenetrable.  It’s so tight that you have to lower its level security, so it won’t interrupt your internet session.  Naturally, Bit Defender should come on top of your list.

Rating: *****

Zone Alarm Computer Security

Zone Alarm, in terms of removing viruses, leaves something to be desired.  However, the question is, how on earth can they enter, given the level of defense its firewall provides. Zone Alarm’s firewall comes as one of the most potent products of its kind.  It keeps out not only viruses, but also pesky spyware.

Spyware, unlike viruses, can enter your computer at any time and even create a portal for other malicious programs.  Zone Alarm’s firewall keeps them all out, making your time on the internet fun and worry-free.

Rating: ****

Ad-Aware

Ad-Aware may have drawn a lot of flak from users before.  But given its latest advancements, I have to say that it is the best antispyware program out there.  It recognizes every type of spyware, even those that Bit Defender or Kaspersky can’t pick up, as long as you keep it updated.

The complete version, which is sold at computer software stores, can even get rid of viruses, especially worms.  Its live protection isn’t as effective, though.  Still, Ad-Aware is an excellent purchase.

Rating: ****

Kaspersky

If there’s a security program that can match, or even outdo, Bit Defender, it’s none other than Kaspersky.  For the past couple of years, it has been consistently rated as one of the top brands of computer security.

It’s antivirus is virtually unmatched, picking off all viruses and most spyware in one scan.  The Kaspersky firewall is also potent.  It can block most intrusions, keeping your computer safe.  No wonder this is the choice of computer geeks, techies, and professionals.

Rating: *****

AVG

AVG does not make the grade in terms of exceptional cleaning power and detection. So, why is this brand on the list? Among all free antivirus programs, AVG happens to be the most effective.  It can remedy a good number of malware, especially if it’s regularly updated.

The email filter and the firewall are also decent.  With careful internet browsing, the program can certainly keep your computer safe.

Pair it up with the free downloadable version of Ad-Aware and your computer will be armed with exceptional protection, free of charge.

Rating: ***

Only the Best

The mentioned brands are the cream of the crop in terms of malware detection and removal.  Some of them may be a bit pricey, but with them in your computer, you don’t have to worry about your files being corrupted or a computer crash.  Quality comes as a higher standard than price, when it comes to protecting your computer.