Product Review: BITDEFENDER

BitDefender offers a suite of Internet security software tools that is on par with many of the top services. They incorporate hourly virus definition updates which identify and eliminate dangerous viruses in real-time. Additionally, their anti-spyware and anti-adware tools are also able to react in real-time to prevent infection of your PC. Both of these claims were supported by our testing which showed that BitDefender could immediately identify programs that could infect our PC and prevent them from being downloaded onto our hard drive. BitDefender also has 'adaptive' engines that are able to flag and block potentially harmful spam or phishing emails. Since these engines learn from the spammer's attempts to access your inbox you can be assured that they are prepared to react to the newest threats.

BitDefender differentiates itself with its special operation mode called 'Gamer Mode'. In gamer mode the system continues to protect your PC but doesn't initiate any pop-up security alerts as it does otherwise. It also reduces the system load so as not to slow down or disrupt any programs you are using. This means that you don't have to worry about these alerts interrupting a full screen gaming session and you can still rest easy that your computer is safe and secure from web based threats. While the feature is specifically targeted towards gamers we also believe that it would be very useful for anyone that spends significant amounts of time watching full screen video content on the web. Whether you catch up on the latest primetime episodes at the office or have a full fledged home theater PC hooked up to your TV, gamer mode would ensure uninterrupted enjoyment of your video content.

BitDefender has added a few interesting new features with the release of its 2009 software. The latest update includes a 'File Vault' which securely stores personal information or sensitive files. BitDefender Internet Security 2009 also offers instant messaging encryption and a new laptop mode that prolongs battery life.

BitDefender is $39.95 to license 3 PCs and $79.95 for 5 PCs. For a multi computer license, this is one of the least expensive options available.

System Requirements: Windows XP or Windows Vista

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