 Eddy Wright, Editor |
Overall Rating:   8.96 / 10.0 |
ESET is one of the biggest names in in computer and Internet security, having been in the industry for over 25 years now. ESET first came into popularity with its flagship antivirus program NOD32, which was used by millions of users all over the world. Smart Security, ESET’s latest offering, is now following in NOD32’s footsteps, as it provides powerful antivirus detection and computer system protection plus additional features for Internet use like payment and banking protection. ESET employs expert security specialists around the world, currently has offices in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, and the USA, among others and holds headquarters in Bratislava, Slovakia.
This robust antivirus software is one of the leading security and protection programs, with more than 110 million users. It has undergone different tests from independent bodies like the Dennis Technology Labs, which has awarded ESET a rating of Advanced+ in categories like malware detection, malicious file removal and overall antivirus security. Overall, the software has received a rating of AAA certification, the highest award Dennis Technology Lab gives.
It is to be noted though that the AV-Test Institute did not find the software as great as the Dennis Technology labs did. While ESET strongly performs in terms of virus detection, it can slow down your computer’s performance a bit, and sometimes fail in removing some of the threats it finds.
Features & Functionality 8.6
System Speed 9.6
Ease of Use 9.6
Help & Support 8.0
Windows XP, 7 & Vista
Windows 8 
Macintosh
AndroidOriginally intended for IT experts, ESET antivirus programs have undergone many developments and innovation, making them simple enough even for home use. Attempts to simplify the user experience include a simplified and easy to read and understand dashboard, which gives users a simple way to access the program’s features. Through the interface, users can perform quick scans and in-depth system scans, configure firewalls and even go into the advanced settings in order to customize the program to their liking. Users can also set up the parental controls by configuring controls based on users’ age and then simply checking boxes to enable and disable selected content.
ESET is a program to depend on, most especially for email scanning. ESET’s power in catching malicious threats even before they enter the computer system makes ESET a good antivirus program ESET is also reliable in removing most viruses that may already have invaded the computer system.
However, tests by PCMag have yielded the results that the software needs a lot of improvement in detecting malware and removing it from the system. The same independent body also tested the program for malicious content in downloaded files, where the software scored low, as it did with phishing tests.
ESET, like other antivirus brands and providers, also offers users varied support methods. On the ESET website users can find knowledgebase articles, video tutorials, installation guides and other necessary files that users can refer to if they need assistance. Users can also send help tickets, or chat with ESET representatives if they cannot find information about their specific concern. Users can also refer to the ESET user forum for insights about the program and commonly occurring issues and their solutions.
In terms of price, ESET can be said to be in the middle-range price. Both the NOD32 Antivirus and the Internet Security packages are competitive with other antivirus programs in the market. While the Multi-Device Security package is a bit pricier than the other packages, it offers protection for more devices, making it an ideal package for the whole family.
All packages come with a 30-day money back guarantee, so users can opt out and receive a refund should they find that the features of the program are not to their liking.
While there are more popular antivirus programs in the market, that does not mean that ESET is not a good software, since ESET can hold its own, when put side-by-side with the competition. It has advanced features at a competitive price, and is efficient in performing most of the tasks it is supposed to deliver. With the ESET team continually working to develop the software, ESET antivirus will surely be at par with the antivirus front liners on the market.
