In one reasonably priced security suite ($50 retail, with a $25 competitive rebate available; three pack available for $90), Trend has covered almost all of the potential vulnerabilities and threats that computers and their users may face. The core of the suite is an updated version of the well proven PC-cillin antivirus software, which has been acknowledged by several reputable publications as among the best antivirus products available. PC-cillin offers frequent automated virus signature updates, and automatically scans email, downloads, and removable media for viruses and other similar threats, and prevents those threats from attacking the computer.
Since all users are vulnerable to attacks while online, even if using a dial-up internet service, the suite includes a firewall that is easy to install, and will configure itself, making it easy for almost all users to implement. The firewall, in addition to hacker intrusion protection, will also protect from network borne virus, worm, and Trojan attacks, such as those infamous worms like Nimda and MyDoom, by constantly monitoring network data and traffic. Another method of attack that we are all targets of is attacks by spyware, and forms of phishing, often attempting to steal our identity, and draining our financial accounts. This suite offers comprehensive and frequently updated protection from spyware, phishing, and other privacy threats.
Another feature, which is both unusual and necessary, is an integral utility, “Wi-Fi Wireless Patrol”. In previous columns here I have discussed the threats to those using wireless networks by miscreants engaging in “war driving” trying to detect vulnerable wireless networks possibly for the purpose of gaining access to the networked computers. Wi-Fi Wireless Patrol is an intrusion detection system that will notify the user if someone attempts unauthorized access to the wireless network. A companion utility included with the suite is “Home Network Control” which enables the user to configure, update, and manage the security of all of the computers on the home network. This utility also allows for “Parental Control” where access to selected websites can be blocked from specific computers on the network, allowing a parent to determine which websites and other internet functions a child can access through the home network.
We should all be aware of the multitude of threats that we face while computing on a daily basis and this PC-cillin suite offers an automated “Vulnerability Check”. This check will scan the computer and its software for an extensive list of vulnerabilities and threats, and the tools to protect from those threats and vulnerabilities. With Microsoft’s penchant for providing frequent updates and patches to many of its current software titles, this suite also offers a simple way to locate and download those updates.
We are all aware of the menaces and time wasted by dealing with spam emails, which may comprise up to 80% of all email in circulation at any given time. PC-cillin Internet Security 2005 includes an “Enhanced Spam Filtering” utility that can accurately identify and block spam, but has the flexibility for the user to determine the degree of spam filtering desired.
PC-cillin Internet Security 2005 will work with operating systems from Windows 98 to XP, and with Internet Explorer, Netscape, and AOL. I have not personally tried it with Mozilla and Firefox, but since these browsers use the same basic software engine as Netscape, I would assume that it would work flawlessly with them as well.
The PC-cillin Internet Security 2005 suite is readily available locally at retail, as well as online from www.trendmicro.com.
In addition to its outstanding free Housecall online virus scan mentioned above, Trend Micro is also offering another free antivirus utility “Trend Micro Mobile Security” which some readers may find extremely valuable. Many of us are using so called “smart phones” that integrate a cell phone with a PDA or Pocket PC. Recently these devices have become targets for virus writers, and are therefore vulnerable to attack. Trend Micro is offering for free download an antivirus product for smart phones using Microsoft Windows Mobile for Smartphones or Pocket PC Phones, and Symbian OS v7.0. This software will protect the phones from viruses and SMS spam, and offers automated frequent updates. Details on this free offer are on the Trend Micro website.
One other advantage that Trend Micro has over its major competitors is free, live, telephone technical support, where competent individuals who are employees of Trend (not outsourced), can intelligently discuss any reasonable issues with the caller.
PC-cillin Internet Security 2005 is an excellent product, and I strongly recommend it as a comprehensive but reasonably priced PC security utility.
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