Poor test ratings with Avast!? Not always!
A major UK computer magazine (Computer Shopper) recently tested anti-virus programs. Avast! 4.0 Free appeared in this test and did well. The test was in February this year, but has still not gone on the web site. Here is a brief summary until it does:
The test:
"Each program was installed on a fresh Windows XP Professional system, and once it had been updated with the latest definitions and program enhancements we downloaded a number of email messages using outlook express. These included examples of today's most prevalent viruses (including variants of MyDoom, NetSky, LovGate and Bagle), as well as some well-known Trojans and some scripts that can be created by anyone lacking a social conscience and with the ability to download the software.
We've also taken some common steps to disguise one of the Trojans. Again, using well-known free software, we've done what a knowledgeable attacker would do."
So, a tough real life test.
The result?
Avast caught all the nasties, and was only criticized for its email integration and not having a script blocker. Version 4.6 of course does have seamless email integration, and Avast! Pro has a script blocker. (as does Microsoft's AntiSpyware, fellow paupers).
Avast! got three stars, as did eTrust EZ anti-virus and ESET NOD32. AVG got four, as did Kaspersky and Symantec. McAfee, F-secure and Steganos got five. Poor old Panda got two, by the way.
In summary: Avast! has appeared in a test with the anti-virus 'big-boys' and can hold its head high about the results.
The timing was bad for Avast!, the test looking at AVG 7.0 Free but missing
Avast! 4.5 Free by just a month or so.
When Avast! 4.6 goes into future tests, it will almost certainly do better: I'm sure four stars easily!
You can see a scan of the magazine article here:
http://www.geocities.com/dontsurfinthenude/antivir.htm