When a client needs an anti-virus software, normally the first step was to ask an expert or a technical friend for their opinion. Some experts who own a retail store will most likely recommend the product they’re selling. Others will recommend what is commonly used or sold. Once a product has been purchased, the customer will buy an additional year of updates to save money. Most small-business owners will apply their personal experience with Anti-virus and deploy similar protection for their company.

This sounds like a good business plan 30 years ago but with todays technology, the very best Anti-virus protection last month might not be the best protection for this month. I have been working with computers and technology for over 30 yrs. I have managed governments, small, medium and enterprise businesses. And to keep the business secure, I have to switch Anti-virus protection as often as needed.

1. For personal use, most antivirus software cost about the same  (between $50 – $80).  The issue of cost is irrelevant if you want protection.
2. Reliability and usability are the most important factors. If it conflicts within the system or other applications, you will end up disabling some of the features to make it efficient but you’re giving up security.  I recommend you use the trial period  prior to purchase.
3. Quality of Protection and Speed is the second most important factor.  The most sophisticated antivirus software is of no use if it is unable to provide a required level of protection, or if you can’t use the computer because of the slow response.  Again, I strongly recommend you use the trial period  prior to purchase.
4. Business vs Personal  has different requirements.  The most important feature in a business anti-virus protection is monitoring and the capability to proactively disconnect an infected computer system.  In a business environment, the viruses can spread instantly attacking the file server.

I would like to be able to recommend particular software, but by the time you have read this blog, this recommendation may have been obsolete. What I would recommend is that you visit AV Comparatives, who does an independent test of Anti-Virus software on a monthly basic using real-world protection tests. Please contact SNC if you need assistance or have any questions.

Ref:

• Real-word Protection test