Top 10 Antivirus Software Products

Feature comparison chart available at AntiVirus Software Review.

BitDefender Antivirus 2010 is certainly one of the best security software solutions available, combining powerful features and excellent protection in an easy to use program. The software is effective, simple, and impressively priced.

Overall, you can’t go wrong with BitDefender Antivirus 2010 when it comes to virus protection, versatility, and value. For superior performance, protection, and price, I recommend BitDefender Antivirus 2010.

Best Price: $29.95 Herman Street,

Pros: Comprehensive yet comprehendible. Great antivirus solution with the power to satisfy tech-minded, but easy enough for anyone.

Cons: A little heavy on the resources used (comparatively), though you won't notice a difference on most computers.

For more details on BitDefender AntiVirus software.

Overall, Kaspersky Anti-virus 2010 continues to deliver superb protection and security. The antivirus software is robust, and integrates innovative technologies to defend from newer threats. As one of the best antivirus software we’ve reviewed, Kaspersky Anti-Virus is a great way to go for PC peace of mind.

Best Price: $49.95 Kaspersky.com

Pros: All-around protection from a number of threats. The interface and tools are advanced, but straightforward.

Cons: Price is decent for the 3-user license, but seem more in-line with a full-featured internet security suite.

For more details on Kaspersky Anti-Virus software.

Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper is the perfect virus/spyware combo. The software is easy to use, and features effective protection and performance. AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper combines all the right components to deliver one of the best antivirus software available.

Even everyday computer users need advanced protection from the prevalent computer threats. From viruses to rootkits, to malicious hacking tools and vulnerability exploits; a multi-layered approach is almost essential for everyday protection. Webroot’s antivirus/antispyware software has all the right features and more.

Best Price: $39.95 Webroot Software, Inc.

Pros: The power of Spy Sweeper, combined with additional antivirus protection from Sophos. The software has all the essentials, and then some (like remote file storage).

Cons: Missing a few nice features like optimized scanning, web link scanner, or a laptop mode.

For more details on Webroot AntiVirus with SpySweeper software.

Overall, Norton AntiVirus 2010 is one of the best antivirus software for any user. More than just popularity, Norton delivers solid performance and protection. Norton AV 2010 has all the right features, innovative technology, and it’s easy to use. The software is easy on resources, and specifically engineered for optimal protection.

Whether you’re looking for one of the most powerful antivirus software, or simply need an easy to use security solution, Norton AntiVirus 2010 is a great way to go. I was very impressed with the overall performance and exciting new reputation-based approach.

Best Price: $39.99 Norton

Pros: New advanced features like the proactive reputation scanning and download insight add utility, and the software maintains a light footprint.

Cons: The performance issues of yesteryear are gone, but Norton still doesn't always play nice with other software, or uninstall completely.

For more details on Norton AntiVirus software.

Overall, Eset Nod32 may not be the most popular antivirus software, but their antivirus software is certainly among the best. Eset Nod32 Antivirus 4 delivers comprehensive antivirus protection, with an impressive track record for speed and effectiveness. There are a few better antivirus solutions out there, but you really can’t go wrong with Eset Nod32; a refreshingly simple approach to antivirus.

Best Price: $39.99 ESET

Pros: Proven security without the slowdown, ESET features heuristic detection and advanced diagnostic tools.

Cons: ESET has all the essentials covered, but misses others like IM protection and antiphishing. The interface is good, but not great.

For more details on ESET Nod32 Antivirus software.

AVG Anti-Virus is a great antivirus program, and one of the best. The level of protection is certainly what we’ve come to expect from AVG, and the feature set is comprehensive, providing excellent security. AVG is well-worthy of being included in our list of favorite antivirus software.

Best Price: $34.99 AVG

Pros: Competent antivirus software with identity theft protection from Identity Guard.

Cons: VG Anti-Virus is simple to install and setup, but took a bit longer than I would have liked.

For more details on AVG Anti-Virus software.

F-Secure Anti-Virus 2010 is another great antivirus software. Delivering excellence in technology and implementation, F-Secure is a solid solution. Complete with proactive protection, cloud security and simple usability, F-Secure Anti-Virus is a compelling piece of software, and should more than do the trick for basic home desktop antivirus needs. For more advanced and complete internet protection (link scanner, active blocking, safety warnings), consider F-Secure Internet Security.

Best Price: $39.99 F-Secure

Pros: Innovative interface, impressive resource use, and overall effectiveness.

Cons: Not as thorough as upgraded Internet Security, which includes antiphishing and more advanced internet protection.

For more details on F-Secure Anti-Virus software.

Overall, G DATA Antivirus is one of the best desktop antivirus solutions available on the market. I can confidently recommend the software as one of the most effective and resource-friendly antivirus software. For more advanced protection, consider upgrading to G DATA Total Security.

Best Price: $24.95 GDATA

Pros: G DATA actually uses two distinct antivirus scanning engines, behavioral/heuristic protection, and even self-learning fingerprinting.

Cons: Falls a bit short on the extra features.

For more details on G Data AntiVirus software.

Combining excellent efficiency and advanced technology, Avira AntiVir Premium is one of the best antivirus software available. With over 20 years under their belt, Avira continues to gain new users worldwide. Their free antivirus software is very popular, and the extra protection from the paid solution is certainly worth it.

Best Price: $26.95 AVIRA

Pros: Good balance of protection and performance, and is completely usable for both experienced users and beginners.

Cons: The Advanced Heuristics Analysis and Detection (AHeAD) technology sometimes is not as effective as it should be.

For more details on Avira AntiVir Premium software.

Overall, Trend Micro’s AntiVirus + AntiSpyware is good, but not great. The level of protection isn’t as comprehensive as we’ve seen from competitors, and we’d like to see Trend Micro jump on board with some of the cutting edge security technology like heuristics and better internet protection. For now, Trend Micro AntiVirus + AntiSpyware is fine, but we recommend looking into one of our higher rated antivirus software.

Best Price: $39.95 Trend Micro

Pros: Another good antivirus and antispyware combo package with IM and inbound/outbound email scanning.

Cons: Unfortunately, they haven't kept up to date with the competition, and don't offer advanced heuristics or a security network.

For more details on Trend Micro AntiVirus + AntiSpyware software.