Internet security is a distinct aspect of broader concepts such as cyber security and computer security, focusing on the specific threats and vulnerabilities of online access to and use of the Internet. Internet security includes a range of security strategies to protect activities and transactions conducted online over the Internet. These strategies protect customers from threats like hacking into computer systems, websites, email addresses, malicious software that can infect and inherently damage the system, and identity theft by hackers who steal personal data like credit card numbers and bank account information.
Many daily activities depend on the Internet in today's digital landscape. Various forms of entertainment, communication, and financial and work-related tasks are accomplished online. It means tons of data and sensitive information are constantly being shared on the internet. The Internet is primarily secure and private but can also be insecure. With a high risk of cybercriminals and hackers, Internet security is a top priority for individuals and businesses alike. Here are the top five Internet Security suites of 2022.
Bitdefender Total Security
Bitdefender Total Security is a top-of-the-range package from a respected security firm. It is at the top of the all-singing, all-dancing Internet security suite. It is one such suite that is packed with features. You get standard antivirus tools and multi-layered ransomware protection, a firewall, Wi-Fi security advisor, a secure browser for online banking, file shredder, vulnerability scanner, password manager, email spam filter, parental controls, webcam and microphone protection, and more, plus an excellent web security module to block malicious URLs.
Also, with security features, it offers various PC maintenance and optimization tools. These are useful to some degree in their own right for cleaning up unnecessary files and streamlining boot times, but more importantly, Bitdefender's flagship package covers more than Windows devices.
An app is offered for Mac customers and iOS and Android mobiles clients. The Android app has been revamped, and you can block more link-based mobile threats. It is a little more expensive than Bitdefender Internet Security - the firm's mid-tier security suite - it is worth upgrading to Total Security if you have multiple devices across different platforms to protect.
There are more good things that Bitdefender has minimal impact on system performance, independent and in our tests. Lastly, it is worth noting that this suite has a 30-day trial, which doesn't require payment details; all you've to do is provide an email address. It means you can try out Bitdefender for a whole month before committing to buy and see for yourself firsthand.
Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton 360 Deluxe is the perfect value for anyone who wants to protect more than one device, which most people likely will. Norton offers good basic security, although some independent testing lab results have been a bit mixed along with a wealth of features, including webcam security and dark web monitoring, an impressive smart firewall, as well as a system of parental controls.
The parental controls are top-notch, including an in-depth monitoring system to monitor what your children are doing online and GPS tracking for their mobile devices. Norton is powerful in this department.
There are also some worthwhile extras included, like the fully integrated Norton VPN, which adds massively to the value proposition of this suite, and 50GB of RAM online backup storage is another handy bonus.
The drawback to keeping in mind is that Norton 360 Deluxe had more drag on system performance than most Internet security suites in testing. It is rated as average in this department by independent testing labs, and you likely won't even notice any effect on your system's speed in everyday use.
Norton 360 Deluxe covers up to 5 devices, either Windows or Mac PCs, plus mobile apps for Android and iOS. Pricing is highly competitive compared to rivals, especially bundled VPN, so you should consider this Norton package, especially for family use with the same parental controls.
Kaspersky Total Security
Kaspersky Total Security is a veteran of the security world. As you might expect, it offers high-quality protection and a very light touch when using any system resources. It also benefits from helpful display options for laptop customers to minimize any battery drain.
One problem with the entry-level Kaspersky Antivirus package is that it's pretty thin on extra features, mostly tied to the basics and what it offers is pretty weak in terms of different bits and pieces. This is why it's good to go for Kaspersky Total Security, mainly because it provides far more functionality and doesn't cost much more than Kaspersky Antivirus.
You get a lot with Total Security, including an intelligent firewall, a secure web browser, protection against webcam hijacking, a software updater, and a solid password manager with a file backup tool, also the full version of Kaspersky's Safe Kids module.
The latter is a great parental control system and few smart social media monitoring tools. Although not all features are up to this standard, some extras, like troubleshooting wizards and spam filters, wobble around the edges overall, you're getting a lot for your money.
Trend Micro Maximum Security
There is a lot to like about Trend Micro's flagship security suite, Trend Micro Maximum Security. Its polished and customer-friendly interface is backed by superb virus protection. Independent testing labs highly rank Trend Micro, and it also provides sterling multi-layered anti-ransomware protection.
Also, the package provides you with first-class URL filtering for secure web browsing, strengthening the overall security offered. A minor weak point with Trend Micro's offering is that there aren't many low-level controls like a virus scan option, so more demanding customers may find it lacking.
More minor tech-savvy types will appreciate the ease of use, allowing for mobile apps. Maximum Security offers parental controls, social media privacy features, and PC maintenance tools. It also has data theft prevention countermeasures, a secure vault for storing sensitive files, and a well-integrated password manager. Also, there is a 30-day trial, so you can check all for yourself before buying.
Avast Ultimate
Avast Ultimate is a new suite from a trusted security organization that provides security on various targets. It means antivirus and ransomware protection and firewall, webcam protection, data breach monitoring, and a software updater to keep apps patched without the need for customer intervention. On top of that, Avast One offers a full VPN (with unlimited data though it is not the fastest by far, by any means) and a few device speed-up and maintenance tools.
Some unusual features like Sensitive Data Shield scan the drive for files containing sensitive information like passwords and phone numbers and prevent other device customers from accessing them. In short, you get a lot with a paid subscription to Avast One.
It's all wrapped up in a smart and easy-to-use interface that has been thoughtfully recreated for the Avast One and the top strength of the security provided. Avast's antivirus engine is rated superb by independent testing labs, and its web security is among the best. Moreover, the system slowdown is negligible while running this suite.
Overall, the Avast One packs in a lot of features, and though some of these capabilities cannot be as strong as the top performers in this roundup, the hefty weight of what you're getting means it's one of the best all-rounders out there.
