ESET is a long running antivirus software that has been around since the late-80s. Unlike some antivirus programs that are U.S. based, ESET was actually founded and remains headquartered in Slovakia, where it was the most successful Slovak company in 2008, 2009 and 2010. ESET currently protects more than 110 million users and has received over a hundred VB100 awards.
Pros
- High powered cloud scanning keeps up to date with the latest malware threats
- Great ransomware defense with frequent updates to stay ahead of potential attacks
- Reasonably priced security plans with ability to have combination of PC, Mac or Android devices
Cons
- Lacks many parental control features for a family
- Password manager and personal information encryption only available on highest priced plan
ESET Protects You From…
ESET features cloud-powered scanning. It means that patented LiveGrid technology evaluates malware related data from users around the world in order to find the latest threats and keep them off your PC.
With 13 research centers located across the globe, ESET is dedicated to being at the forefront of cybersecurity by consistently analyzing and updating their software related to the biggest and most recent online attacks.
ESET is also extremely well versed in providing the latest ransomware defense. Ransomware is a recent nuisance that has become more common, and ESET antivirus software is very sound at flagging and removing any potential threat.
Do you bank and shop online? Most individuals do these days and cyber attackers know it. They attempt to claw information from these sites that can include important personal information or even credit card information from being compromised. Thanks to ESET technology on their higher priced plans (more information, below), you can bank or shop online securely.
Also with the ESET Internet Security and Smart Security Premium packages, users are able to check their home router to ensure all devices at home are protected. ESET protects a wide range of devices and can be any combination of PC, Mac or Android.
ESET also features a password manager. Compromised passwords is the first step toward getting your identity compromised. ESET realizes it, and provides a really detailed password manager that not only creates unique and difficult to hack passwords, but also stores them for you so you don’t need to remember them.
Lastly, with ESET personal information is protected as the antivirus encrypts folders and USB drives. All of it is easily manageable from the main dashboard which provides means for a quick scan, sandboxed browser (for banking and online shopping) as well as information on the status of all devices on your home network.
Devices/Operating Systems ESET Supports
ESET supports a well rounded list of devices. It is compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux (ESET NOD32 only). The antivirus software also works on Android devices with Mobile Security.
The system requirements for WIndows include versions of Windows 7 or higher. Also, 1 GHz 32-bit or 64-bit processor, 1 GB of RAM memory, 320 MB of available space and Super VGA.
Installation & Performance
ESET is straightforward and not difficult to install. You will not have any trouble with the setup and if so, a dedicated customer support team is available via email or phone.
ESET did not appear to bog down computer performance while a scan is in operation. The Quick Scan feature works in the background and does not inhibit PC computer if you are doing other activities on the computer while a scan is in progress.
Price
ESET offers three different antivirus security packages for your PC, Mac or mobile device. The most affordable is the ESET NOD32 antivirus software, which starts at $40 for the year. It is possible to upgrade the package to up to five different devices though you still do not receive some of the high-end features of ESET including online banking and password manager. The ESET NOD32 subscription is also only compatible with PCs, not Mac and Android devices.
The next suite available is ESET Internet Security which starts at $50 per year. It is possible to upgrade to not only 5 devices but also 10 devices. Meanwhile, ESET Smart Security Premium is the antivirus software highest rated suite and starts at $60 per year for one device. Like ESET Internet Security, the Smart Security Premium suite also upgrades to 5 and 10 devices respectively.
Additionally, ESET features bundles for small business. The all in one security solutions provide security for workstations, file server, mobile devices and company email.
Conclusion
ESET is a very sound antivirus software provider. It is hard to argue with a company that has been doing it for over three decades now, and their malware and ransomware security remains among the best in the industry. ESET also offers competitive pricing with the ability to cover not only PCs but also Macs and Androids as well.