Agnitum’s Outpost Security Suite Pro includes a firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware programs, anti-spam features as well as a host of other sophisticated defences against internet threats.

At its most simple level, the software is easy to install and can be run quite happily with its default settings, in which case it will get on with its job quietly in the background.

This latest version of the suite offers more than just a selection of security updates, though: Agnitum claims the program has been optimised throughout to provide faster scans and greater user control while the revamped interface brings better ease of use and access to features.

You can now switch quickly between expert and simple modes. While the simple mode does hide some of the more esoteric functions, it doesn’t actually change the way the interface works or provide you with any additional assistance. Built into the program’s main window is a link to an online Security Teacher resource, designed to help users to keep up-to-date with security developments – it’s very geeky, though.

We found Agnitum Outpost Security Suite Pro easy to set up and run. It worked fine on both 32-bit and 64-bit computers and it didn’t mess up any of our existing firewall rules, such as allowing remote desktop access form an office PC.

Most major options, such as the firewall and virus/spyware scanner, can be configured by moving sliders to select the level of protection you want and are accompanied by explanatory text.

However, Agnitum’s more advanced options are really very complex indeed. This is not because it’s unnecessarily difficult, but because of the sheer depth of control, the number of features and the level of fine-tuning available.

The huge amount of extra features served more as a boost to our confidence in the software than as an intimidating array of options, but you will need to have a little bit of knowledge to be able to get the best out of this product – there isn’t enough help to ensure the true novice is able to get to grips with it.

Available for download at £40 for a year’s subscription with updates, the program is a great value alternative to software such as Norton Internet Security.

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