Gizmophobe Technology & Gaming

ESET’s NOD32 is rapidly becoming one of the best pieces of antivirus software on the market today. ESET’s NOD32 once again has delivered an excellent product that is highly effective, and now, easy to use. Its interface is simple to use for the average home user, but can be configured and tweaked by the advanced user. It requires little or no configuring for the average user.

ESET’s NOD32 is among one of the most effective when it comes to removing viruses. Independent tests show that NOD32 removed about 98% of the virus threats it faced. Its spyware protection is a little weaker than one might like but still quite acceptable for someone browsing the internet. Where NOD32 stands head and shoulders above its competitors is in its proactive detection and protection. The idea here is that when the software finds some code that looks malicious, it executes the software in the background to determine if it’s a threat to your machine. ESET NOD32 has refined this technique like no other antivirus software developer with their ThreatSense Technology. This ThreatSense Technology delivers an excellent detection rate while offering a very fast scan rate.

ESET’s NOD32 only updates its virus signatures once a day. That’s probably a short enough interval considering that ESET has the power to “push” updates to your computer in the instance of attack. Also, with ESET’s highly effective proactive engine, it is very likely that it will recognize malicious code before the signature is available. ESET’s NOD32 is all about effectiveness and speed. This software uses fewer resources than most other anti-virus software and that is what really makes it so good.

NOD32 offers several layers of protection including real time email scanning, antivirus protection, antispyware protection and rootkit scanner. The email scanner integrates easily and directly into MS Outlook or any other standard POP3 email client. The only thing it doesn’t have is parental controls but other than that it is an exceptional piece of software.

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New Year to be dominated by in-car technology according to motoring website

A car that parks itself and wakes you up if you nod off at the wheel may once have been the stuff of dreams for car buyers but, according to motoring website motors.co.uk, they will be top of the list for discerning car buyers in 2009.

The New Year will see the launch of a glut of greener, technology laden cars with features such as self parking systems, intelligent cruise control and hybrid engines to attract car buyers.

Gadget fans and nervous parkers will love the new range of self parking cars such as the new VW Golf being rolled out in 2009. Not content with front, side and rear parking sensors these cars use sophisticated technology that ‘takes over’ parking from the driver, automatically turning the steering wheel to the right positions leaving the driver in charge of the braking and throttle.

The New Year will also see more cars fitted with blind spot alerts for safer lane changing, intelligent cruise control systems that maintain the correct distance from the vehicle in front and lane departure warning systems to rouse sleepy drivers, such as in the Citroen C5.

For the ultimate gadget fans, researchers in Germany are developing a new in-car technology that determines the exact speed drivers need to maintain to pass through traffic lights on green.

With the credit crunch beginning to bite, motorists will also continue to look to green technology in 2009. This will include stop-start engines where cars automatically turn off their engines in a queue, to conserve fuel and reduce CO2 emissions.

2009 will also be the year of hybrid (petrol-electric) engines with cars such as the Honda Insight providing drivers with the benefits of improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.

Motors.co.uk’s top five in-car innovations to look forward to in 2009 are:

1. Hybrid engines
2. Stop-start engines
3. Self parking cars
4. Lane detection systems
5. Intelligent cruise control

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The new Panda Antivirus 2008 is one of the easiest-to-use and most intuitive protection software for your computer. Just install it and forget about viruses, spyware, rootkits, hackers, online fraud and identity theft. You can chat, share photos and videos, bank and buy online, read your favorite blogs or simply surf with complete peace of mind. Along with the new Collective Intelligence technology, the solution is now much faster than previous versions. Coupled with a new truly automatic update system, Panda Antivirus 2008 takes advantage of your Internet connection to transparently update the virus signature files incrementally. It is one of the first truly “install-and-forget” antiviruses for the home user.

Panda Antivirus is adequate at what it claims to do: detect, block, and remove viruses and virus attempts from your PC. However, it is lacking in speed, resource use, and independent testing. Upon install, Panda will scan your system thoroughly and then remove any viruses or malware it finds. This is great, except the software doesn’t tell you what it removed, nor did it give us the option to choose to remove the infected files. For most people, this “set it and forget it” feature will be adequate, but some might prefer more control over what files Panda removes. After all, the software may accidentally remove a file that we needed by accident. When it comes to Panda Antivirus 2008 is great for rootkits as well that can be used to hide threats and prevent them from being detected, as its reinforced protection system can detect threats that use this stealth technique.

There are the standard features that include antispyware, antiPhising, and protection against dangerous websites, the antiRootkit and free automatic daily updates. It can block hackers and intruders, even through Wi-Fi connections. Although not as advanced as some would like, Panda Antivirus 2008 is absolutely fine in keeping your computer safe.

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G DATA Antivirus 2008, formerly AntiVirusKit, is a simple and effective antivirus solution. It doesn’t include many perks, but does include the basics as well as a couple extras that have come to be expected in the antivirus software market. Overall, it is an easy-to-use product that will keep your computer protected. The main configuration and information page has most of the functions that you will need. If there is an option on that page that you can’t find, there is an Options page that includes some more advanced configuration options for each section of the program.

The best part of G DATA Antivirus 2008 is that there isn’t much user intervention needed. The default configuration is sufficient for most home users and if you set the scans to a time when you are not using your computer there is little chance you will even notice the program running at all. While slow, the antivirus engine within G DATA is very thorough. It is also nice that it doesn’t eat up many resources while scanning. Updates for G DATA Antivirus are downloaded every hour by default.

G DATA Antivirus doesn’t come with a whole slew of extra features. It does include a two part antivirus scanner that is rated very high and also includes an email scanner and a heuristic scanner. Installing G DATA Antivirus is as simple as following the prompts and letting it run. After you are finished with the installation, there is a significant update to the software that needs to be downloaded.

Support for G DATA Antivirus 2008 is a little bit small to say the least. All that is included at this point is an incomplete FAQs section and a support request form on their website. But, in the overall scheme of things, G DATA Antivirus is a simple and effective antivirus product.

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Norton Internet Security has always had a good reputation for getting rid of the spyware and viruses that trash our computers, but at the same time, they are known for their slow performance and the way it drags the computer down if you try to use it at the same time as the scan is running. With Norton Internet Security 2009 you really get the best of both worlds. Considerably faster than previous Norton versions, the Norton Internet Security 2009 barely affects performance at all, which is really what we all want. The new interface is very streamlined now as well, making it better functioning and easier to use. Laptop users will love the Norton Security 2009 because mobile users won’t have to worry about laptop batteries draining because they forgot to disable a scheduled scan. Norton 2009 detects when a battery-powered laptop is idle and delays the scan accordingly.

Norton Insight makes note of trustworthy applications found on the drives and adds those applications to a whitelist so they aren’t unnecessarily scanned in the future. This type of integrity checking got its start with behavior-based scanners and is well suited for streamlining the performance of signature-based scanners as well. The first time you scan it may take an hour or more while it checks out all the files, but subsequent scans should finish in well under that .

In addition to the standard signature detection, Norton Internet Security 2009 includes SONAR. Browser protection is also built-in, detecting attempts to exploit known vulnerabilities. The rules-based protection isn’t as proactive as it could be and the browser protection is a bit signature-based in practice, but both features still add considerable protective value to the product. Don’t be swayed by Norton’s past performance - this latest version is definitely worth a try.

Popularity: 2% [?]

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F-Prot for Windows is an easy to install and use antivirus program that has a great interface. Although the interface would be more user-friendly if the options were available from the taskbar instead of from the Start Menu or desktop, it still has many of the features that beginner users would enjoy and find easy to use. All of the options are straightforward and practical. Some of these options include right-click, on-demand, on-access and scheduled scanning.

F-Prot claims their scan engine uses very low system resources and therefore runs under Windows 2000, XP or Vista, which means less time sitting and waiting and more time internet surfing. The RealTime Protector scans all files your system accesses for viruses. The built-in Scheduler automates tasks like updating the virus definition files and scanning which is extremely convenient. The program is simple to configure, but still gives you plenty of options. The on-demand Scanner is used to manually scan your files, folders and drives. You can also scan a file, folder, or drive from within Windows Explorer by right-clicking and selecting “Scan”.

In general F-Prot has advanced heuristics-based detection that can defend well against new and unknown threats. It has a fully automated virus signature file updates and software upgrades which make it efficient, and the email protection is in real-time which protects against attachments. And with advanced detection against malicious programs, you can’t beat the overall software. Although the Help and Support is not as good as it could be according to some users, there is an online database that contains answers to frequently asked questions for your convenience and with the low price, you can’t go wrong with this antivirus program.

Popularity: 2% [?]

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The Shield Deluxe 2008 combines reactive antivirus and spyware detection methods with the latest proactive technologies to provide your computer with the most effective protection against malicious programs. The product is simple to install and set up, while offering advanced users a range of versatile settings for fine-tuning the program.

The Shield Deluxe 2008 , powered by Kaspersky Antivirus 6.0 relies upon integrated methods to scan for viruses: the reactive method (using signature databases) and proactive protection (behavior blocker and heuristic analysis). It is optimized for use on laptops . Users of laptops benefit from an economy mode that conserves battery energy, while users of WiFi (wireless) Internet services can automatically update antivirus databases. The Shield Deluxe 2008 is installed and set up in a matter of minutes, while the context-sensitive help function helps users quickly understand the finer points of the program’s capabilities. Also, the program regularly notifies users of its current protection status and gives recommendations for dealing with virus epidemics and potential threats.

One of the best things about it, is that it monitors the activity of programs and processes that have been launched in the computer’s memory and, at the same time, warns users of any dangerous, suspicious or hidden processes and of unauthorized changes in routine processes. It works to control the status of the system registry and notifies users of any suspicious objects or attempts to create hidden keys in the registry.

The protection for email is excellent. The Shield Deluxe 2008 scans email traffic for viruses according to the protocol via which it is sent on any mail program, while plug-ins and treatment for viruses in Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Outlook Express mail databases are offered. Lastly, All HTTP Internet traffic is scanned for viruses in real-time, ensuring that infected objects are not saved to the computer’s hard disk. All in all, it is an economical antivirus software that really does the job that you need it to do by protecting your computer from various viruses and threats.

Popularity: 2% [?]

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Introduction

Broadband technology can provide almost instant access to a wealth of resources for business, education or personal use, as well as allowing you to keep in touch with loved ones all over the world, quickly and easily. A broadband Internet connection is high speed download speeds are typically up to ten times faster than a traditional, 56Kbps (”Kilobits per second”) dial-up connection  and “always on”; voice and data traffic is transmitted along one line, so there is no need to dial up for Internet connection, and you can make telephone calls whilst connected to the Internet. A small business, for example, needs to communicate effectively, and efficiently, with its potential, or existing, customers, business partners, associates, etc.., so any technology that can improve this process should be of interest. Broadband technology can provide enormous improvements in this respect, not only speeding up electronic mail, or Web access, but also making available previously unexplored options, such as VoIP (”Voice over Internet Protocol”) telephony, telecommuting, etc..

Broadband Providers & Services

According to a recent report, the uptake of broadband mobile broadband, in particular is set to increase substantially in the United Kingdom, and the rest of Europe, over the next 5 years. Competition in the UK broadband marketplace is fierce, and there are many different offerings typically distinguished by download speed, monthly usage allowance and, of course, price from many different providers. Thankfully, however, there are also many websites that allow consumers to check the availability of different types of broadband  ADSL (”Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line”), cable or satellite, for example – locally, by postcode, and to compare different offerings side-by-side.

TalkTalk, for example, offers its cheapest broadband and talk “bundle” for just £3.25 per month, plus line rental at £10.50 per month. This includes 8Mb broadband, plus unlimited telephone calls, during evenings and weekends, to landline numbers in the UK. For an extra £2 per month, this service can be upgraded to include a 40GB usage allowance, and unlimited telephone calls to 36 selected international locations. Both services includ a free wireless router, but do require a one-off connection fee, of £29.99. BT similarly offers its “Total Broadband” package 8Mb broadband, 10GB monthly usage allowance and a free wireless BT Home Hub, at “entry” level at an introductory price of £7.95 per month, for the first three months, and £15.99 per month thereafter. Once again, upgrades are possible, to a “next generation” wireless Home Hub and 15GB usage allowance, for £13.99 per month, and unlimited usage allowance, for £18.99 per month. AOL, too, offers an 8Mb broadband “bundle”, with a 10GB usage allowance, at an introductory price £4.99 per month, and another, at £9.99 per month, which includes a free wireless laptop and a wireless router, together with 40GB monthly usage allowance. These are, of course, just a selection of the many, many, broadband deals available in the UK, but the popularity of broadband and the level of competition mean that broadband UK prices should remain attractive for the foreseeable future.

Popularity: 1% [?]

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PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition protects you against the worst 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. 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.

PC Tools Antivirus is a perfect solution if you’re looking for online protection at zero cost. It really does just as much as the higher priced programs but without the higher price. It protects you from viruses, worms, and other online threats. It has one of the nicer interfaces and the easiest to use as seen in antivirus programs and it’s really great for beginners who perhaps don’t have as much experience in using antivirus programs. It makes it perfect for users with all levels of experience.

PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition also watches over your email so you’re protected by threats via email. It also lets you customize the scan settings so you get the protection you want and need. Unlike the pay version which is only $29.95 US, you don’t get phone support, 24/7 tech support, or high-speed updates. However, you do get access to the growing community of users who use PC Tools products. This product monitors your computer in real-time so any threat that attempts to invade your machine is going to fail. So, if you’ve been looking for a way to protect your computer from all the threats that are on the Internet, look no further than PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition.

Popularity: 3% [?]

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If you are diligent about treating your computer right, and by that I mean, not opening downloads from people you don’t know, not opening messages that are unknown and so forth, the free version of Avira’s AntiVir is probably all you need to keep your computer free of viruses. Consistently rated in the top five for effectiveness, AntiVir is also low-profile. It spawns only two background services and if there weren’t a system tray applet to access the program, you probably wouldn’t even know it was running. Basically, it is extremely light on your computer. Despite this, it offers just about every basic AV feature you’ll find in the major competition.

AntiVir’s interface is easy on the eye and easy to use for beginners. Unlike some of its competitors which make it difficult to access advanced settings, it also gives you all these with a simple switch to expert mode. Probably AntiVir’s neatest trick is auto-scanning directories as you navigate though them. You can turn it off and on when you need it, so you don’t have to leave it running all the time, but at least you know you have it available to you.

Obviously, you’re not going to get every neat feature with the free version of a pay program. Most notably missing in action is an e-mail scanner, though there is rootkit scanning. Rival free competitors provides usually provide the email scanner but not th erootkit scanning so you already have a leg up. The 20-Euro premium version of AntiVir adds the e-mail scanner as well as faster updates, anti-spyware features, and a browser add-in that helps guard against malicious Web sites and downloads. It also kills the nag screen you see when you download updates.

Although its major free competitor, AVG Anti-Virus Free, may offer one or two more features, Avira AntiVir Personal Edition Free has been consistently rated as better at detecting viruses by AV-Test.org. If you’re good about not opening strange attachments, AntiVir probably a slightly better choice.

Popularity: 4% [?]

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