How to Evaluate Security Software

Level of difficulty: Easy

There are two primary types of security software for removal of spyware and adware. These are the virus protection software and spyware removal software. Anti-virus software applications are capable of preventing and removing identified computer viruses and may at times have the feature of real-time protection that tries to stop viruses even prior to spreading its infection to the computer. Spyware and adware removal software applications have the ability to scan as well as remove unsolicited and hostile software programs. Both types of security software require regular updating to ensure that these programs will remain effective and efficient in performing their primary tasks. To evaluate security software is said to be a complicated process partly because various uses and environments usually require various security requirements even on the same type of product.

Materials Needed:
- Internet connection
- Security Software
Step 1
Browse on a list of OSS/FS (Open Source Software / Free Software (OSS/FS) programs. These programs are licensed programs a user can use for any purpose including the evaluation and study of another program. The user may use a number of search engines providing specialized sites to monitor the program. These search engines include the Enterprise Open Source Directory, Freshmeat, Free Software Directory, Google, Alta Vista, SourceForge, and Savannah.
Step 2
Read existing evaluations and reviews of the options identified by the user to gain first hand information on the software’s weaknesses and strengths. Try not to limit the review on the descriptions provided by the software’s manufacturers. To find these search reviews, the user may use Google as a primary search engine and then locate the articles that contain the name of the program to be evaluated by the user. Take note if these reviews are published reviews.
Step 3
Once the product reviews have been read, the user should briefly compare the attributes of the leading programs to his particular needs. Examine the functionality of the program chosen and see if it meets all the user’s requirements. To get a clearer background on the program, locate the OSS/FS project’s website which usually contains a brief description of the program.
Step 4
Once the user has chosen particular security software, ensure that the program is legitimate by carefully reading the license agreement before installing the program. Care must be taken during this process since some security software applications have been noted to install spyware themselves.
Step 5
After reading the license agreement, the user may now download the software from the manufacturer’s website or from a reputable mirror site.
Step 6
Install the software into the computer.


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