McAfee VirusScan 4.0

McAfee VirusScan 4.0

PRO: Outstanding virus detection and removal, remote-control­like interface, easy to use

CON: Slowest scan time

As maker of one of the oldest and most popular antivirus packages, McAfee has a reputation for effectiveness and cutting-edge features to uphold. With the $49 McAfee VirusScan 4.0, the runner-up to our Best Buy, it succeeds. VirusScan performed perfectly on wild virus detection (like Command and Norton) and repair (like Panda), and strongly on zoo viruses. Its one major drawback is scan speed; McAfee took two to three times longer to scan a 1GB hard drive than the other packages. If you always schedule full-system scans for evenings and other off-peak times, this won't pose a problem, but if you want to scan during peak hours, you'll have a long wait.

A new remote-control­like interface called VirusScan Central makes navigating through McAfee's many features easy. Buttons that perform common tasks appear prominently in front, while other, less conspicuous buttons lead you to more advanced or specialized settings. Useful messages pop up each time you start VirusScan, reminding you to perform such common (and essential) chores as updating your virus signatures. A simple wizard guides you through a multitude of settings and choices. The package actively scans all e-mail attachments and downloaded files before you open them, and it offers protection against the notorious ActiveX and Java applets; it even includes a miniature firewall that lets you block access to certain unwanted Web sites or IP addresses--a useful filter for parents.

Updating VirusScan is easy and automatic. A pop-up dialog box reminds you to refresh, supplying a button to connect directly to McAfee's Web site. If you want to receive updates as soon as they're available, McAfee will "push" updates directly to your PC via e-mail; none of the other reviewed programs has the same feature. The company claims to provide daily updates if the need arises and free signature updates "for the life of the product"--that is, until the next version of VirusScan comes out, when the format of the signature files may change.