Internet security software is important to have, especially on Windows 8 – if you’re looking for paid and free software, this article will give you an overview
Tops brands release new versions of compatible software with each new Windows update, Windows 8 is no exception to this rule.
Norton 2015 ($49.99 for 5 devices)
Always a top brand in security, Norton 360’s 6th version offers stellar security performance. Starting at just under $90, this security suite excels in areas such as firewall protection, antivirus combat, phishing detection, and parental controls. This security software also comes with tuneup features and an online backup system offering up to 2GB of storage. The only real downfall with this product is that the more advanced parental control functions will end up costing users extra money.
Webroot Secure Anywhere Complete ($40)
Webroot is a popular security system that’s renowned for taking up only a small amount of space on hard drives. Webroot’s Secure Anywhere Complete security system, compatible with Windows 8, is also a tiny program boosting a ton of features. Costing only $40, this security software will impress users with its extensive malware protection and cleanup. Webroot also offers online storage solutions as well as android syncing support and capabilities. Phishing protection, however, is relatively less advanced for this software. Parental controls are also not included.
BitDefender Total Security (Starts at $59)
Starting at just $59, BitDefender Total Security promises to keep users’ computers free from attack with its strong antivirus and malware protection. BitDefender’s Windows 8 software also has phishing protection, file shredding, and parental controls. What makes this software truly innovative is its remote management options available through the BitDefender portal. While this security program is powerful, it can take a long period of time for it to clean up infected files, slowing computer performance.
Kaspersky Internet Security 2015: $34
Kaspersky’s Windows 8 compatible security software can be found online for as low as $34 per year. Kaspersky’s 2015 internet security system offers an array of customized scans and scanning options. Kaspersky’s latest security version has strong phishing protection and quick scan times. However, users running multiple or special scans may notice that scan times take much longer than typical virus scans. Full malware protection also requires changing Kaspersky’s default settings.
ZoneAlarm Free Antivirus + Firewall (Full Windows 8 Compatibility)
Website: www.zonealarm.com/
ZoneAlarm’s Windows 8 compatible software is not only newer, this version is actually free. ZoneAlarm has been a leading security software company for years, and while this free software is difficult to install on infected systems, it has great malware, phishing, and antivirus protection. This free edition also comes with online backup storage and a solid two-way firewall. Since it is free, it doesn’t have as many customizations and options as the other security suites.
Although Windows 8 comes with many built-in security features, users should definitely invest in a qualified security software program to help keep their computers running efficiently. These top five brands each have different security specializations and advancements for users who know exactly what they’d like in a security system.
