All-in-One Software: F-Secure

What features do you look for in security software?  Anti-virus protection?  The ability to block spyware, phishing and spam?  How about a dependable firewall and parental controls?  If this is what it takes to restore your confidence in surfing on the web, then F-Secure Internet security 2008 just may be the perfect solution.  

Overview of Antivirus Features

This software uses the powerful combination of an anti-virus and anti-spyware component that scans system files on demand or on a specific schedule.  Schedules can be set to run on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.  It can also be configured to perform whenever your computer has been idling for a specific amount of time, a worthy benefit to users with more high-risk systems.  After detecting potential threats, F-Secure Internet Security 2008 has the ability to either quarantine, disinfect or completely delete the files. 

This program uses its advanced DeepGuard technology to distinguish legitimate and troublesome applications.  Relying on a behavior analysis, it has the ability to kill all harmful processes in an instant.  Even when a deceptive process tries to get through, F-Secure will display a popup box requesting that the user identify themselves.  This allows the Internet Security Suite to catch and remove malware that was able to slide through the anti-virus and anti-spyware scanner. 

The program includes a firewall component that shields all open ports of your computer, hiding them from malicious intruders.  The firewall is configured to automatically detect popular applications like Internet Explorer and Firefox.  In general, F-Secure Internet Security 2008 will only ask you to grant access to unknown files and programs.  This reduces the number of distractions commonly found in other security solutions. 

This feature-rich software also comes with an effective spam filter for keeping those unsolicited messages out of your inbox.  The filter easily integrates with frequently used clients such as Windows Mail, Outlook and Outlook Express.  The component for parental control can be set in blocks of time such as half hour increments.  During this time, multiple profiles can be configured to filter specific content and granted online access. 

The software package comes doubled as a scanner and installation CD.  The scanner disc will connect you to the F-Secure website where it downloads the virus database and tests the local hard drive before the software is even installed.  This comes in handy when repairing a system that has exhibited unstable behavior.  Though not installed locally, the scanner on the CD is very efficient and can test nearly 60,000 files in less than 30 minutes. 

Solid Antivirus Protection, Except....

The only knock on F-Secure Internet Security 2008 is the lack of detail regarding executable malware programs.  In this case, brief explanations can be found in the scan logs.  Instead of being notified that a file was an infection in disguise, the program simply blocks the file and prevents it from executing with no further information.  Aside from that minor flaw, it is evident that F-Secure has developed another quality product that is sure to keep your system safe from the ever-roaming internet threats.