Choosing the anti-virus software that is right for you can be easier said than done. This is especially true for individuals who have had bad luck with anti-virus software in the past and are looking to find a program that they can settle on for the foreseeable future. The fact is, there are a variety of important things to look for when setting out to find the perfect anti-virus software. By considering all of the following, your chances of choosing the right anti-virus software for your home or business will be much higher than they might be otherwise.
1. Look for “Game Mode” Protection
Many anti-virus programs feature what is called “game mode” protection, which allows users to experience uninterrupted gaming. Software that does not come with this feature can disrupt a gaming experience, as “false alarm” threats are often detected during gaming. Fortunately, this feature is becoming more and more commonly found in popular anti-virus software.
2. Firewalls are Essential
It used to be the case that one would need both anti-virus and firewall software in order to keep their computer safe from hackers and other intruders. Things have changed over the years, however, and firewalls can quite often be found as extra features in anti-virus software. In order to cut down on clutter on your machine, you should strive to find a piece of software that includes this feature.
3. Consider Free Software
Paid anti-virus software is often considered to be superior to free alternatives, likely given the fact that people put more value on things that cost money. The fact is, however, some of the more popular free anti-virus programs are just as useful as those which cost money. As a result, those who are on a budget and can’t afford to afford paid software can rest easy knowing that they’ll get just as quality an experience by choosing the right free software.
4. Real-Time Protection
Not all anti-virus software offers real-time protection. Without this feature on your side, you could be susceptible to threats at any money while surfing the Internet. Real-time protection doesn’t have to be difficult to find in a piece of software, as it is more common now than in the past. Still, you should always look for this feature before settling on any one specific piece of software.
5. Regular Updates
In order for your software to be effective, it must be able to search for updates on a regular basis. Viruses mutate on a daily basis, and anti-virus software requires updates on an almost daily basis in order to run smoothly. While you can perform these updates manually, the best software will actually search for them automatically, installing the updates in the background while you work.
