Originally Posted By: sprintman
I've worked in IT for nearly 20 years and 14 years in electronics before that. NIS 2009 is so light on resources it's an eye opener but then they knew they had to change it completely.
Check out this link for a comparison of Antivirus/Anti-Spyware software offerings:
http://www.av-comparatives.org/images/stories/test/ondret/avc_report22.pdf
Norton charges $54.99 for a one year renewal, which I feel is too expensive. Avira Premium on the other hand charges ~$25 for both the intial purchase of the software and subsequent one year renewals.
I have noticed virtually no impact on my computer's performance, other than the normal use of some memory. I highly recommend Avira Premium for those who don't need all the bells and whistles in their Security Suite.
Avira free version:
Basic protection
Protects your computer against dangerous viruses, worms, Trojans and costly dialers. New: Basic Anti-Spyware.
Avira Premium (paid) version:
Advanced protection
Along AntiVir Personal it includes: Enhanced Anti-Spyware, AntiAdware, AntiPhising, MailGuard (POP3 and SMTP), WebGuard for safe surfing, RescueCD and more.
Avira Security Suite (paid) version:
Full protection
Along AntiVir Personal and AntiVir Premium, it includes: AntiSpam, Firewall, GameMode, backup, AntiBot, AntiDriveBy, ParentalControl and more.