The importance of anti-virus software is universally known by every computer user. It can be considered the most important software to have in the system. However, it is worth noting that some free antivirus software does not provide optimum protection, especially when the data to be secured is very classified and crucial.
This is because it provides a minimum level of antivirus protection. However, feature for more comprehensive and thorough protection, such as scanning for malware, automatic scans, firewall, parental controls, identity theft protection etc, are usually found in paid antivirus.
However, there are two most important features that highlight the significance of paid antivirus in relation with the free version. Speed and effectiveness are usually similar for both versions, but it is the additional features and customer support that makes the paid antivirus stand out.
The level of support offered by antivirus companies is crucial to help the consumers with any problems with the software. These customer representatives are well knowledgeable technicians that answer any queries of the customers related to antivirus. Free versions have very limited support, and it does not include a personal contact with the technicians, which can make a huge difference.
Furthermore, most antivirus have offline-scanning feature as well, which allows the users to have virus detection even when not connected to the internet. Moreover, manual / offline update of virus definitions is also an important feature to have in computers where there is no internet connection for online updates.
Some great antivirus free and paid versions are available in the market. Some well-known antivirus is Avast Antivirus, Avira AntiVir, Norton, Bit Defender Antivirus, and KasperSky.
The paid antivirus software have strong and effective blocking and security features that help protect the user against Trojans, viruses, hijackers, key-loggers, intruders, and hackers, and are often accommodated with its own antispyware and firewall.
