Product Review: TREND MICRO INTERNET SECURITY 2008

         PROMOTIONAL


It takes only a few moments to download and configure and didn't have any significant impact on PC speed the way that several of the other software were observed to do. According to Trend Micro, the most recently released edition of their Internet security software actually installs even more quickly, boots up 50% faster and uses 40% less memory than the 2008 version. Additionally, the interface is very intuitive and Trend Micro includes a Security Activity Dashboard to allow the user to keep track of how the software is working.

Trend Micro did its job by alerting known spyware and viruses that were attempted to be download. Trend Micro updates their virus definitions daily as opposed to hourly like some other security software products. The 2009 edition also includes a new feature called Quick Scan, which checks for threats in the most likely places more quickly than a full scan and without interrupting you while you use your computer.

While Trend Micro does include a parental controls feature, it is not all that well designed. It is relatively easy to block certain sites, but once they have been set those sites will be inaccessible for all users on your PC. So, if there are sites that you would like to block your children from accessing you can do so, but you will also be prevented from visiting those sites. You can also choose what times your children are allowed to go online, and for how long, and even prevent them from typing personal information while online. Trend Micro also makes it easy to monitor what websites your children are accessing.

Trend Micro's Internet Security does include anti-phishing protection and a fairly extensive firewall, but it would have been even better if it had also included more advanced identity theft protection tools like password encryption and anti-keylogging features. The latest software adds an enhanced Home Network Security Management function, which lets you see and manage other computers in your home network and block wireless intruders.

Trend Micro goes for $49.95 for up to three licenses. It has a clean and intuitive design that is a big plus for consumers that may be intimidated by the idea of running security software. Overall, it is not as feature rich as some competitors, particularly when it comes to identity theft protection, but still can be recommended to most consumers.

System Requirements: Microsoft Windows XP or Windows Vista

Need help making an informed purchase decision?