Kaspersky Anti-Virus is the newest version of one of the most popular antivirus solutions available today.
Featuring the same robust engine from previous versions, the new Kaspersky Anti-Virus is one of the most powerful protection tools you can use to defend your system from viruses, worms, Trojans and other sorts of malware.
What does it do?
With a totally revamped interface, all designed in white and green, Kaspersky Anti-Virus feels very comfortable for the newcomer, while including extensive configuration settings that enable more tech-savvy users to adapt the program to their needs. The bottom area in Kaspersky Anti-Virus includes buttons for the program’s main functions: scans, database update, a virtual keyboard and a quarantine area for infected files.
Kaspersky Anti-Virus includes three types of system scan (Full, Critical Areas and Vulnerability). Not only does the program take care of your file system in real time, thanks to a heuristic-based monitor, but also your email, web browsing and even IM conversations. All these filters can be tweaked in the program's comprehensive settings menu. On the downside, the regular scanning of any active apps can momentarily slow down your system.
Added protection
The program also includes the so called Kaspersky Security Network, an online service that improves Kaspersky’s response to new threats, thanks to anonymous data collected from users.
There are lots more advanced settings to play around with in Kaspersky Anti-Virus. You can customize the way the utility protects your system, applying more protection, or disabling certain aspects in order to free up CPU resources. Make sure you check out our article about using the advanced features of Kaspersky Anti-Virus.
All in all, Kaspersky Anti-Virus is a nice security solution. It offers real-time protection and lets you scan your system for possible vulnerabilities. It's a suitable tool for all levels of users - clear enough for the less experienced, while also offering serious customization options for the more tech-savvy.
Free alternatives to Kaspersky Anti-Virus
There are several free antivirus suites available that can protect your computer from threats in a similar way to Kaspersky Anti-Virus. Most do not have the same level of advanced security features, but they are worth looking at if you are on a tight budget.
- avast! Free Antivirus
- Panda Cloud Antivirus
- Microsoft Security Essentials
- Avira AntiVir Personal
- Rising Antivirus 2011 Free Edition
With Kaspersky Anti-Virus you can effectively protect your system from all possible online threats.
Recent changes
Improved: System Watcher Protects your PC against unknown threats and lets you roll back system changes made by malware
New: Kaspersky File Advisor Allows you to check file safety with a single click of the mouse
Improved: Kaspersky URL Advisor Marks web links with a color-coded tag to advise you of their danger level
Improved: Anti-Phishing module Warns about phishing sites that steal personal data
New: Task Manager Allows you to monitor malware scanning activities as they happen
New: Completely redesigned interface Makes navigating around the PC security program quick and easy
Improved: Desktop gadget Lets you see your computer’s security status instantly and gives you quick access to essential security settings inside Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2012
Pros
Nicely designed, intuitive interface
Includes virtual keyboard
Notifies the security of web pages
Gaming mode
Elevated malware detection
Cons
Elevated CPU consumption
Heavy for slow PCs
Update downloading can be slow
