Webroot Internet Security Essentials

Webroot Internet Security Essentials offers to protect your computer from spyware, viruses and other threats while not getting in the way.

Setup took about 20 minutes, mainly due to the 35MB download and a couple of other updates taking a while to arrive on our modest broadband connection. The installation wizard was simple to follow, though.

A quick security scan came up with no problems, and we were then asked if we wanted to take part in the Webroot Automated Research Network (Warn) that shares information about any security threats found on your computer with Webroot.

Also included in the package is online backup. Webroot offers 2GB of space for free, which would be enough for a good number of photos, some music and documents, but may not be adequate for someone who wants to back up music or video files, say. It is possible to pay for more space, though some other companies throw in 5GB as standard.

The main interface was clear enough. We found it easy to schedule scans, adjust the firewall and tinker with numerous settings for security sweeps and shields. In fact, under the surface, Internet Security Essentials is a very comprehensive tool.

It's also fast and unobtrusive, with little effect on the computer's performance.

The program will do a lot more than simply block dodgy websites and thwart hackers. It can regularly clean the computer of all the temporary files, cookies and browser histories that can bring it grinding to a halt and fragment the hard disk.

An online restore facility can be created to protect the whole system in the event of a major problem and it learns as it is used, remembering which websites the user deems safe. There is also a handy game mode that means it won’t run scheduled scans during play and then lets the scan continue once play has ended.

The software licence is good for three computers, which is fine for most families, and the price pits it well among the competition, too.

Webroot Internet Security Essentials is an impressive bit of security software and its backup, clean-up and potential for customisation make it a strong product.