A simple package whose two detection engines ensure great malware detection, but it fails to inspire in other areas.

Comprehensive, competent and configurable protection at a good price. This is the best security suite out there

A comprehensive package, but not the most usable or effective

A modular scanning tool that catches most unwanted software – but not quite all

More approachable than ever, with excellent malware detection in an affordable package

Clean, clear and light on its feet, but with few extras.

A quantum leap in usability over the previous version, although malware protection could still be better

A highly usable all-round security suite, but ultimately a strong runner-up rather than a new champion.

We've had a quick play with the new version - and we like what we see. Definitely one to stick in your PC toolkit for 2008.

A professional product, but it's a poor performer for the price.

With peerless detection capabilities, this well-conceived package towers over its rivals.

With peerless detection capabilities, this well-conceived package is a joy to use.

A good concept, but the on-demand anti-virus scanner lacks real-time email and IM protection.

A best-of-breed approach to Internet security pays off. This flexible and resource-friendly suite returns to the A-List.

PreviewA good attempt at all-in-one system security, fully integrated into the OS.

McAfee puts out its VirusScan 2004 in two versions - boxed or downloaded and managed from the internet. Whatever way you do it, the installation is simplicity itself with no difficult questions to answer or confusing choices to make.

Kapersky Antivirus has been around for some time and often pops up on home computers as the uneducated user’s anti-virus software of choice. Unfortunately, it really isn’t as user friendly a program as it should be for novice users.

Computer Associates (CA) is one of the biggest names in the software industry, even compared to Microsoft. Most of its business is done in the enterprise and corporate field, and this heritage shows in eTrust Antivirus.

At first glance, not much appears to have changed from version 3. A closer look, however, reveals that the engine in version 4 has been tweaked and optimised towards a more powerfully specified product.