2012 Antivirus Software Ratings

Kaspersky Internet Security 2012

Kaspersky continues to grow as a household name every year, and for good reason. Over the years, they've completely rebuilt what it means to be an antivirus engine, while increasing the overall user experience.

The top testing labs around the world have given Kaspersky high awards and certifications:

• West Coast Labs
• Anti-Malware
• OPSWAT
• Virus Bulletin
• AV-Comparatives
• AV-Test

Kaspersky Internet Security 2012 is just as strong as ever when it comes to antivirus and firewall protection, but they still aren't as refined as some of their competitors when it comes to overall usability.

For one thing, their user interface is still full of nagging issues that should have been easily fixed, but weren't.

Protection against zero-day threats, and emerging viruses is strong according to tough, independent testing around the world. Their firewall is top-notch, and their cloud-based antivirus protection is on the move.

However, there are several holes in certain key areas that could make or break your final decision about Kaspersky Internet Security: their antiphishing scored lower than even Internet Explorer's in some tests. Their social network protection isn't as holistic as it could be. And their tech support is rife with problems.

We still like Kaspersky for its sheer protection power, but it's sliding back on our list this year due to some missteps that are too much to ignore.

	Next: Virus & Spyware Protection

Kaspersky Internet Security 2012 Features

• Real-time Antivirus
  
  Scans your computer for viruses and other malware. Protects you in real-time against new threats.
• Two-way Firewall
  
  Your first line of defense against the outside world. Regulates traffic going in and out of your PC to block hackers and trojans.
• Antiphishing
  
  Blocks dangerous sites that try to steal your personal data or identity.
• Safe Run
  
  Two safety features rolled into one: An added layer of protection when entering sensitive information into a web-browser, as well as a safe environment to run unknown applications.
• Virtual Keyboard
  
  Prevents keyloggers and screen capture malware from stealing your passwords.
• Vulnerability Detection
  
  Helps protect your computer by ensuring your applications and Operating System are properly updated.
• Low Resource Scanning
  
  Scans your PC when idle to save on resource usage and not drag down your computer's performance.
• Gamer Mode
  
  Keeps you safe when playing video games without reducing your system performance.
• Antispam
  
  Keeps unwanted and dangerous emails out of your inbox.
• Optimized for Netbooks
  
  Supports screen resolutions found in netbooks with no extra system performance drag.
• Parental Control
  
  Helps keep your children safe online by regulating web activity.
• Password Manager
  
  Secures your passwords when banking, shopping, or gaming online.
• Data Encryption
  
  Encrypts personal data for better protection.
• File Shredder
  
  Permanently erases files to prevent spyware and hackers from reconstructing personal data.