A convenient all-in-one media package, but many of the applications can be had for nothing elsewhere

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

Great if you have foreign accounts to manage, but only average otherwise.

A no frills site that does the job but doesn’t stand out in any way.

Improved handling of templates, tracing, text and layers along with new table support, but ultimately X4 disappoints

A friendly suite for the less-experienced user, but technical types may find it limiting.

Surround-sound support and mastering-quality plug-ins mean Sound Forge is better than ever.

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

Microsoft finally recognises that web authoring needs a standards-compliant tool, albeit on its own terms.

A wide range of power, but too old-fashioned and confusing for most users.

Efficient photo management and sharing, but let down by some surprisingly underpowered editing.

Moving in the right direction, but it isn’t easy teaching an old dog new tricks.

A competent suite delivering good value for money, but it offers only average spyware and spam protection

A truly silent firewall, reduced system impact and an improved interface finally make Norton attractive.

Much improved, but IE still lags behind Firefox 2 in terms of innovation, features and security.

Windows virtualisation that really works: it isn’t without foibles, but it’s a great way of running Windows from OS X.

A simplified interface, strong photo-to-art Focus and the low price make painter essentials a great buy.

Kaspersky's first integrated security suite relies too much on the anti-virus component.