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Top Standalone Antivirus Software for 2010

We looked at eleven antivirus packages from around the world. G-Data Antivirus 2010 wins for its outstanding malware detection; Norton Antivirus 2010 comes in a close second thanks to its polished interface.

Edited by Nick Mediati, PC World

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Last Rated:
November 20, 2009

1. G-Data Antivirus 2010

G Data swept almost all the malware detection tests, but using it means having to make more decisions than you do with other apps.

$22.95
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Last Rated:
November 20, 2009

2. Symantec Norton Antivirus 2010

Norton Antivirus is a good choice for nontechies, but those willing to deal with a less-refined interface can get stronger protection.

$14.00 - $33.50
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Last Rated:
November 20, 2009

3. Kaspersky Lab Anti-Virus 2010

Kaspersky Anti-Virus has plenty of features, but is inconsistent thanks to its below-average traditional malware detection and at-times frustrating user interface.

$23.75 - $34.98
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Last Rated:
November 20, 2009

4. BitDefender Antivirus 2010

BitDefender Antivirus 2010 will get the job done, but it needs a better user interface.

$19.95 - $30.76
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Buy at BitDefender.com

Last Rated:
November 20, 2009

5. Panda Antivirus Pro 2010

Panda Antivirus Pro 2010 does a decent job at malware blocking but doesn’t stand out.

$39.99
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Last Rated:
November 20, 2009

6. F-Secure Anti-Virus 2010

F-Secure Anti-Virus 2010 does a good job detecting malware, but it doesn't quite keep up with the top contenders.


Last Rated:
November 20, 2009

7. Avira AntiVir Premium

Avira AntiVir Premium Edition needs more features and a face-lift before it can become a top choice.


Last Rated:
November 20, 2009

8. Trend Micro AntiVirus Plus AntiSpyware 2010

Trend Micro Antivirus + Antispyware's nice user interface can’t make up for its lackluster malware detection.

$11.94 - $18.77
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Last Rated:
November 20, 2009

9. Eset Nod32 Antivirus 4

Despite some nice extras and a generally smooth interface, Eset NOD32 lagged behind the pack in overall malware detection.

$64.99 - $69.00
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Last Rated:
November 20, 2009

10. McAfee Antivirus Plus 2010

McAfee Antivirus Plus has some good features and a decent interface, but has too many performance problems for us to recommend it.

$8.95 - $45.23
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Last Rated:
November 23, 2009

11. Alwil Avast! 4.8 Professional Edition

Avast Professional Edition's inconsistent malware detection and frustrating interface make it a less-than-ideal choice for protecting your PC.

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