Panda Antivirus 2008

(Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista)*

Panda has been an average software package since its inception. And this year, there are no significant improvements that warrant Panda Antivirus 2008 anything but an average rating. It's got all of the basics: anti-spyware, anti-phishing, anti-rootkit, etc, but not much else. Panda Antivirus 2008 is also heavy on resources and overall a bit slow. We found the support lacking, and the interface almost childish. However, it does what it says on a basic level: scans and removes viruses, malware, etc. However, due to lack of thorough independent studies, we can only give this a marginal rating.


$39.95


Editor's Overview

• Adequate antivirus scanning and removal
• Descent antispyware and antimalware options
• Poor interface
• Poor setting options
• Not enough tech support
• Heavy on resources
• Generally slow

Will Panda Antivirus 2008 Protect my PC from Unwanted Viruses?

Yes. This year's Panda Antivirus is adequate at what it claims to do: detect, block, and remove viruses and virus attempts from your PC. However, we found it lacking in speed, resource use, and independent testing. Upon install, Panda will scan your system thoroughly, then remove any viruses or malware it finds. This is fine, except the software didn't tell us what it removed, nor did it give us the option to choose to remove the infected files. For most people, this "set it and forget it" feature will be adequate, but we would prefer more control over what files Panda removes. After all, the software may accidentally remove a file that we needed by accident.

Anti-virus Software Features

• Antispyware
• AntiPhishing
• Protection against dangerous websites
• AntiRootkit
• Automatic daily updates

Bugs and Support Issues

There is a known bug in this version of Panda Antivirus 2008 that hasn't been corrected to our knowledge as of this writing. When engaged, the antivirus software will randomly cut the connection to your internet. This can be resolved by closing, then reopening your browser, but this is such an annoying flaw, it's a wonder Panda hasn't tackled it sooner.

Also, their website and support system is seriously lacking. As a first line of defense, Panda offers a knowledge base to help solve your problems. When that doesn't work, their search function only returns a FAQ page which is even less helpful. If neither of these solve your problem, then you may email them for support. Support appears to be free, but only after you've waded through their less then helpful knowledge base and FAQ pages.


Support

Email or knowledge base


Conclusion

While Panda Antivirus 2008 is adequate, we recommend two better anti-virus software programs: Kaspersky, or BitDefender.


*System Requirements

• Windows Vista 32 & 64 bit, Windows XP 32 & 64 bit, Windows 2000

$39.95