Review: Webroot Spysweeper with Antivirus security software

The threat of online attacks continues to increase, which means a similar grow in the number (and capabilities) of computer security packages.

This one, for example, began life as plain old Webroot Spy Sweeper, but now includes virus detection from well-known security firm Sophos.

Installation wasn't tricky, and it's fully Vista compatible. However, unlike some programs, it didn't recommend that we remove our PC's existing anti-virus software, or do it automatically, so remember to do that once it's been installed, to avoid problems later on.

The well-designed control panel shows clear information, and it's possible to access various tools, such as protecting the Internet Explorer home page, from here.

There are settings to scan programs more thoroughly (the 'extra shield') but these aren't switched on by default, as they slow things down. All settings can be password-protected, but unlike competing products it doesn't automatically schedule scans. This has to be done manually.

While Webroot Spy Sweeper with Antivirus is competent at dealing with viruses and spyware, it is missing one large component – a firewall.

And for this reason that, for most users, it's worth spending a little extra and going for a suite that comes with a firewall.

Also consider
AVG Internet Security Suite
Norton Internet Security 2007
Panda Internet Security 2007