Review: Bitdefender Total Security 2008

Bitdefender Total Security 2008 is more than just an anti-virus program.

As the name suggests, it provides protection against all of these different threats around these days (viruses, spyware, bots, rootkits and so on), and its automatic update option can regularly check for notification of new threats.

It also includes parental control features to keep the kids away from unsuitable websites, and identity protection to prevent people gaining access to your personal information such as address or bank details.

While allowing the kids to use the computer is definitely a good idea, giving them access to file-sharing programs to download music and videos can often a big source of viruses and other problems, so Bitdefender Total Security can check these downloads for viruses and spyware too.

These are certainly useful features, though rival products from companies such as Symantec have very similar abilities. However, this latest edition of Total Security does include a few options that we haven’t come across before.

We particularly like the wireless option that tells you whenever anyone connects to your wireless network at home or at work. And if you ever use a public wireless network in a coffee shop or airport lounge, Total Security can make sure that no other computers on that network can gain access to your PC.

The manual supplied with Bitdefender Total Security is hard going at times, and could do a better job of explaining some of the inevitable technical jargon, but the program certainly provides comprehensive protection against the various threats lurking out there on the Internet.

Total Security is also reasonably priced, the £36 cost includes a three-user license, making it a good choice for homes or small businesses with more than one PC. That price also includes free 24-hour technical support via phone or email, which should provide welcome peace of mind when you or your family are surfing the net.

Vista compatible: Yes