Internet security options
To ward off criminals from your paper data documents, there’s always a file shredder. But when looking for user-friendly cybersecurity software for online threats, you have lots of options at your disposal. You should ask yourself what your main concerns are. Do you need the best antivirus software? Are you looking for parental controls to manage your kids’ use of the internet? Are you searching for real-time anti-malware, anti-phishing protection, webcam protection or additional features like cloud storage? Most options can be configured simply and offer good ease of use.
Internet security suites
If you want comprehensive protection for all your connected devices from a wide range of threats, internet security suites might be your best bet. The multi-device protection can extend from connected computers with different operating systems — including Windows 10 and Mac Catalina — to iPhone and Android devices. Depending on the package, spyware, adware, phishing, keylogging and ransomware protection can also be included.
Essential file encryption, parental controls, webcam protection and anti-theft protection might also be included as premium security features. Security services that may have been sold as separate packages can now be bundled, such as identity theft protection, VPNs and cloud backup software.
From a home consumer’s point of view, some of these suites with extra features can be pricey since they’re often intended for businesses. However, many internet security companies offer free trials to see how the products suit your needs.
Antivirus protection
Antivirus protection is essential if you want to prevent your computer and networks from being corrupted by viruses and other malicious software threats. Internet security software works by running in the background, checking every file you open and comparing it to a catalog of known viruses and malware. The best antivirus products will also run regular scans of your system for dormant viruses, waiting to be activated and cause mayhem.
Virus protection software and antivirus suites work on the commendable principle that prevention is better than trying to find a cure for an infected computer.
Standalone antivirus solutions usually have better pricing than full internet security suites, although they have limited features. You can even find free antivirus programs, but these are often designed to lead you into buying paid versions.
Spyware protection
Spyware is malicious software designed to gather your personal information without your knowledge or consent. Spyware can steal your usernames, passwords and email accounts. This is scary because spyware can send impersonated messages to your contact list or get access to sensitive information, such as bank accounts and online payment services.
Anti-spyware software performs regular checks on your computer to ensure your system is safe from unwanted intrusions. Spyware is often installed on systems through seemingly innocuous downloads or surfing what seems like a safe website.
Malware protection
Malware is a broad term encompassing computer viruses, worms, trojan horses, spyware, botnet software and ransomware. Surfing the wrong websites, clicking the wrong links in scam emails or opening attachments and plugging an infected USB drive into your computer are some of the ways you can acquire malware.
Besides being personally vigilant about such threats, you can deploy internet security software with malware detection capabilities. This works to check any downloaded program to ensure it doesn’t have malware. It also scans your computer for any malware that may have slipped through or predates your protection. Most internet security packages will even provide updates to the software, helping it catch any new and emerging malware threats.
