8 Internet security suites put to the test
When it comes to data security, every charitable organisation needs to consider what they’re doing to keep their sensitive information safe. So, how safe is your security software? Independent tests tell the story.
Independent IT security researcher, the AV-TEST Institute, tested 8 different security solutions designed for use in the office workplace for Windows PCs showing the importance of investing in proper security software.
Real word protection for Windows 8
Over two months, the different security products were put to the test with Microsoft’s own free offering being used as a baseline.
The good news is that mainstream products are continuing to prove their worth with 5 of the 9 corporate solutions achieving a 100% detection rate (compared to Microsoft’s base security at just 77%). If you’ve been looking into products from Bitdefender, F-Secure, Kaspersky Lab, Symantec or Trend Micro, you can be confident that they’ll do the overall job well.
New software on old computers?
It’s no secret that many workplaces have older computers and that it can be a concern that new software may make these systems run slowly. The AV-TEST Institute also tested for this, “The test carried out by AV-TEST revealed that the protection packages from Bitdefender, Trend Micro and Kaspersky Lab are the kindest to systems’ existing resources. The solutions from McAfee and Sophos have a slight load on systems, while the protection package from Fortinet even has a very high system load.”
Who came out on top?
While most of the products tested performed well with very positive results, across AV-TEST’s three test categories, protection, system load and usability, Bitdefender and Trend Micro came out on top with a total scores of 17.5 out of 18 possible points. They were followed closely from Kaspersky Lab, just half a point behind.
Donations and discounted security software for charitable organisations
If it’s time to update your not-for-profit needs to upgrade, donations of some of the top security suites are available either as a donation from the provider or at a discounted rate. Here’s what’s available for eligible charitable organisations:
Donated products
Discounted products
Image via FHKE on Flickr (text added)
Stay Smart Online logo via Stay Smart Online
Charts via AV-TEST