I've used (or been forced to use ) a lot of anti-virus programs in the past. I used AVG and as it was free, installed it on PCs for people all the time if I was building/repairing them. I was shocked to see how often they would still get viruses etc. I think it may be that the free version has a delay in getting the updates so 0-day stuff gets in. After I got sick of AVG, I used Avast on my own PC. I found it a bit invasive and it wasn't particularly fast. It wasn't bad, but I just didn't like it or feel at ease with it. I had to use Sophos Anti-virus at my old work and while it seemed good, it was a real resource-sapper. The on-access scanner was a real pain, especially if you simply clicked on a large file, it'd sit there for ages scanning a movie file etc. I disliked McAfee ever since I had to fix someone's PC with some sort of McAfee security suite installed. I had to remove it in the end and install AVG (before I knew better). Norton, don't even go there. The very definition of bloat-ware. Wouldn't wish it on anyone tbh. Kaspersky, I have never used but I hear it is good from pretty reliable sources. Now, on to the winner IMO. NOD32! I tested it for my new company I work for. Everything about it is a pleasure to use. Very un-obtrusive, apart from the icon in the system tray telling you you've recieved updates, you'd never know its there. UNLESS You get a virus-infested file etc from somewhere and it pops-up a big flashing red screen warning you of such. Updates come thick and fast which is always a good thing. Since removing Norton, and AVG etc from all the PCs in the office and installing NOD32 on them all, I've had no calls from any n00bs with b0rked PCs. I used to run my PC with no protection and it was never a problem. I was never keen to install an anti-virus on my PC as I always saw it as un-necessary bloatware. I have not seen a drop in performance and its obviously an extra layer of protection so can't complain. So, although NOD32 is not free (£23.00 for 1 year, £35.00 for 2, £46.00 for 3) it is almost certainly worth it. I certainly intend to have every person I build/repair a PC for buy it and install it for them. Saves me hassle in the future...
