Along with spyware, computer viruses represent the most prevalent threat to laptop users today. While spyware generally causes more of an invasion of privacy than a major threat to system stability, viruses are fully capable of destroying a system from the ground up. Adding to the numerous virus protection software available today is NOD32 (£27 inc. VAT) from Eset Software.

A small installation, NOD32 installs quickly to protect your laptop in a matter of minutes. Once up and running, all features of the software can be accessed via the NOD32 Control Centre – a central management system divided into the relevant areas of protection that NOD32 offers.

The main features that will be frequently used are labelled as AMON, IMON and NOD32. AMON provides protection for the laptop itself, monitoring your system to detect virus attacks. IMON protects your laptop from the internet, to detect viruses from outside sources. Finally, NOD32 itself allows users to scan their laptop to find and clean viruses already in place.

Requiring a certain degree of input from the user before the software will operate to its full potential, NOD32 may prove slightly complicated for basic users. While settings aren’t overly complicated, users looking for a ‘Set It & Forget It’ anti-virus solution may find themselves overwhelmed at first.

Proving highly effective at withstanding viruses under test, NOD32 is a strong and customisable line of defence against malevolent viruses seeking to harm your laptop. Well designed and built around a system-friendly light installation, this is an anti-virus solution aimed at the more weathered laptop user. However, for basic users with an eye to increase their knowledge, NOD32 is still a great foray into the heroic waters of virus defence.

RATING 8
PRICE £23/£27 (ex/inc. VAT)
KEY FEATURES Virus detection and elimination
REQUIREMENTS Windows 95/98/ME/NT 2000/XP
CONTACT
www.nod32.com