There have always been debates as to how much Computer Security is actually needed these days. The debate rages on not just with professionals but those who use their computers mostly from the home as well. While there will probably never be a distinct answer as to how much is actually needed the answer is always going to be different depending on how a computer and network are used as well as what type of data they store and even the type of applications used within those machines. Those using home desktops and laptops will generally require far less Internet Security than those running a business. An individual browsing the internet and checking his/her email don't need as comprehensive security because they don't attract much attention to themselves. Sure they are faced with threats such as zero day attacks and even identity theft but to a far lesser extent that say a business who's network houses thousands of clients personal banking information and contact information. Therefore the average home user can get away with simple set of PC Security tools that simply scan for and eliminate threats when found. Business operators however will need a tremendous amount of security as threats are greater simply because of the high profile nature of business and the amount of critical data being stored.
Business owners and operators will typically need not just the ability to scan and eliminate threats from their networks and individual PC's but will also need comprehensive Endpoint Security that offers dependable protection against attacks. A business needs to invest in a solution that can manage Vulnerability Management on it's own so that unidentified threats are marked as such and eliminated well before they can infect your network. This type of intrusion prevention can save you time and recourses your business may not have so it's smart to look for applications that deliver these things.
Getting back to home and casual PC users, generally speaking these people should strive to find a program that provide antivirus and antispyware support which is usually all the Desktop Security one would need in the home, provided of course that computer isn't housing private or important data. Many casual users, having a lack of such knowledge end up with a purchase that provides to much or to little protection. Casual users beware. Don't get caught up in the scare tactics some companies use to oversell you. Yes threats are out there and yes no one is immune from them but the majority of attacks and theft occur at the business level so as long as the program you invest in delivers both the ability to detect and remove all threats and is easily updated you have little to worry about.
The next logical step in any debate regarding PC Protection is going to be which vendor to give your business to. Having worked with computers for over thirteen years I can tell you that there companies that provide solutions to just home users as well as companies that create their products solely for those in business and/or individuals with a background in computer technology. There are also those companies that create programs that can be applied to either scenario. So which one do you give your business too?
A number of factors are going to come into play when making this decision. The first thing any individual or business should do is consider what others have to say about the vendor and the application you're interested in. Also take into consideration what the nature of reviews have been regarding this product. Next pricing and budget are going to play a large role. Those worried that cheaper means a product of lesser quality, think again. Several companies offer Free Antivirus Software downloads so that you can take their product for test run and in some cases will allow you to use the limited free version for as long as you like. Of course these all come with the ability to upgrade to the full paid version at any time. If it works well and fits your PC Security Software needs then by all means use the free version. Once the monetary aspect of your investment has been settled one should begin comparing cost vs. product and determine if what you're getting is worth the cost. In many cases a business or even individual will purchases one application only to find that another is required to deliver "complete" security. The best programs will deliver everything in one application thus saving you time and money which essentially is what all businesses want to do.
So now you have to ask yourself which program and vendor are right for me? I personally rely on vendors that aren't as big as some of the others. Take eEye for example. They are a large company yes, but as they're not the biggest name in PC Security yet, they have more to prove and work harder to ensure you keep your business with them.
Scott is an avid computer and technical enthusiast. http://www.eeye.com
