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This novice-friendly freeware antivirus tool still expects a certain level of sophistication from its users. PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition's interface presents a minimum amount of buttons to control the application.

Checking your PC status, scanning for viruses, and switching on or off real-time protection are all a matter of clicking a single button. Scan speed and memory requirements are average for applications in this genre. Basic full-scan scheduling is easy to set. The virus database appears comprehensive, and the program automatically downloads updates.

This is the freeware version of the publisher's antivirus tool, but the differences are minor. Updates are downloaded from a slower server with this version, but not so slow as to cause user irritation. E-mail message tagging options are not configurable. E-mail and phone support isn't available.

Our big concern is the very basic Help function. Novice users will find it tough to navigate. Intermediate users will wish for better information before tackling any configuration changes. Nonetheless, users looking for an antivirus tool that can be set with default protection and that updates silently will be happy with this freeware.

Publisher's description

From PC Tools :
PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition protects you against the most nefarious cyber-threats attempting to gain access to your PC and personal details. Going online without protection against the latest fast-spreading viruses, worms and Trojans can result in infections within minutes. Once infected, the virus will usually attempt to spread itself to your friends, family and associates by accessing your e-mail contacts and networked PCs. The infection may also allow hackers to access files on your PC, use it to launch attacks against other computers and Websites or to send mass spam email. That's why PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition provides protection, with rapid database updates, IntelliGuard real-time file, Internet & e-mail protection and comprehensive system scanning to ensure your system remains safe and virus free. Version 5 features new improved scan engine, smaller memory footprint, and much improved system performance.


http://download.cnet.com/PC-Tools-AntiVirus-Free-Edition/3000-2239_4-10625067.html