Top 11 Antivirus Software for 2010

1. G-Data Antivirus 2010

Pros

Top-notch malware detection

Clean interface

Cons

It should tell you what to do more often

Bottom Line

G Data swept almost all the malware detection tests, but using it means having to make more decisions than you do with other apps.

2. Symantec Norton Antivirus 2010

Pros

Polished UI

Great extra features

Cons

Malware detection is solid, but not stellar

Bottom Line

Norton Antivirus is a good choice for nontechies, but those willing to deal with a less-refined interface can get stronger protection.

3. Kaspersky Lab Anti-Virus 2010

Pros

Many extra security features

Good proactive protection

Cons

Less effective traditional detection

Warning pop-ups can be confusing

Bottom Line

Kaspersky Anti-Virus has plenty of features, but is inconsistent thanks to its below-average traditional malware detection and at-times frustrating user interface.

4. BitDefender Antivirus 2010

Pros

Decent malware blocker

Cons

Poor rootkit removal

Confusing interface

Bottom Line

BitDefender Antivirus 2010 will get the job done, but it needs a better user interface.

5. Panda Antivirus Pro 2010

Pros

Simple tabbed interface

Solid feature set

Cons

Changing program settings is a pain

Bottom Line

Panda Antivirus Pro 2010 does a decent job at malware blocking but doesn't stand out.

6. F-Secure Anti-Virus 2010

Pros

Strong disinfection

Cons

A few bugs

Only middling malware detection

Bottom Line

F-Secure Anti-Virus 2010 does a good job detecting malware, but it doesn't quite keep up with the top contenders.

7. Avira AntiVir Premium

Pros

Good disinfection

Some good proactive detection

Cons

Too-technical UI

Lacks behavioral detection

Bottom Line

Avira AntiVir Premium Edition needs more features and a face-lift before it can become a top choice.

8. Trend Micro AntiVirus Plus AntiSpyware 2010

Pros

Good, clear interface

Cons

Poor malware detection

Hides actions from user

Bottom Line

Trend Micro Antivirus + Antispyware's nice user interface can't make up for its lackluster malware detection.

9. Eset Nod32 Antivirus 4 $39.99

Pros

Nice system inspector tool

Cons

Lackluster malware detection

Bottom Line

Despite some nice extras and a generally smooth interface, Eset NOD32 lagged behind the pack in overall malware detection.

10. McAfee Antivirus Plus 2010

Pros

Strong signature-based malware detection

Cons

Weak proactive protection

Bottom Line

McAfee VirusScan Plus has some good features and a decent interface, but has too many performance problems for us to recommend it.

11. Alwil Avast! 4.8 Professional Edition

Pros

Fast file scanning

Cons

Aggravating interface

So-so malware detection

Bottom Line

Avast Professional Edition's inconsistent malware detection and frustrating interface make it a less-than-ideal choice for protecting your PC.