Best Internet Security Software

BitDefender Internet Security 2008 (Around $50)

Best Internet security suite. BitDefender Internet Security 2008 is the best integrated security program (which includes antivirus protection, a firewall, spam filtering, spyware protection and more), according to the most reviews. The suite has always had a fine reputation for preventing malware, but the previous version was one of the worst offenders at slowing computers, and user control was awkward. Reviews say the program is considerably improved in those regards. Early user reviews are more favorable than those for most competitors. A similar product, BitDefender Total Security 2008 (Around $60) includes all the components of the base program, with the addition of maintenance and backup software.


Norton Internet Security 2008 (Around $55)

Most popular Internet security suite. More than half of the security programs sold carry the Norton name. Norton Internet Security 2008 benefits from brand comfort and rebate promotions, and the most credible reviewers say the new version is the best in its class as well. Norton is ranked among the best in preventing viruses and spyware in all tests. The major issue with Norton is that it will not work properly on many computers. While this problem plagues all security suites to some extent, user reviews report more trouble with Norton than others. Slowing is not as much a problem as it used to be.


Panda Internet Security 2008 (Around $40)

Budget Internet security suite. According to reviews, the main strengths of Panda Internet Security 2008 are antivirus and firewall protection. However, opinions of its spam filtering, anti-spyware and parental-control components are only fair. Still, many users may not need those features. In that case, Panda is a good value, and like its Norton and BitDefender competitors, the license covers three computers. It is also just as effective as its competitors at preventing the major types of malware. Spam filtering is the big weak point in reviews, but if you already have a good spam filter, you may not need more than Panda Internet Security.