PC Tools AntiVirus Free 7.0.0.545

[AvinashR]

Powerful free protection against malicious virus infections!

PC Tools AntiVirus provides world-leading protection against viruses, worms and Trojans with rapid updates and OnGuard™ technology. With PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition you are protected against the most nefarious cyber-threats attempting to gain access to your PC and personal information. Going online without protection against the latest fast-spreading virus and worms, such as Netsky, Mytob and MyDoom, 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 email 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 world-leading protection, with rapid database updates, OnGuard™ real-time protection and comprehensive system scanning to ensure your system remains safe and virus free. PC Tools products are trusted and used by millions of people everyday to protect their home and business computers against online threats.

PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition feature highlights:
• Protects your PC as you are working, surfing and playing
• Detects, quarantines, disinfects and destroys Viruses, Trojans and Worms
• OnGuard™ protects your computer against threats in real-time
• Automatically checks for frequent updates against the latest threats

Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 (32bit, 64bit), Windows Vista SP1+ (32bit, 64bit), Windows XP SP2+ (32bit).

Homepage - http://free.pctools.com/free-antivirus/

[AvinashR]

It seems that they are still developing their free AV...

[Ibrad]

Any change-log?

[sg09]

Well, new website...
Are they using Norton engine in the free version?

This website tells, the free version has basic antivirus and antispyware and the paid version has advanced antivirus and antispyware. I knew the old version doesn't have any antispyware.

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "Any change-log?" }-

I haven't found any change log yet...But it seems that they are using a new-engine in this updated version..

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "Well, new website...
Are they using Norton engine in the free version?

This website tells, the free version has basic antivirus and antispyware and the paid version has advanced antivirus and antispyware. I knew the old version doesn't have any antispyware." }-

To achieve the Advance Protection, you can run Threatfire, which they are using in Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus 2010...

For Site-Guard and Browser Guard, you can use AVG Link Scanner and Rapport... You have everything now, and that just for free :D

[sg09]

You mean this free version has detections of spyware doctor? Only additional guards are not there?

Edit: I think you are right.
http://i45.tinypic.com/263eans.jpg

[sg09]

The installer is 33,872Kb in size but after installation asks for 90,734Kb update download. :o

[gery]

-{ Quote: "The installer is 33,872Kb in size but after installation asks for 90,734Kb update download. :o" }-
and it doesn't include rootkit protection :thumbd:

[SweX]

-{ Quote: "You mean this free version has detections of spyware doctor? Only additional guards are not there?

Edit: I think you are right.
http://i45.tinypic.com/263eans.jpg" }-

No, I think he means that Spyware Doc includes TF wich you can download and run along PCTools Av free. And then you get similar protection for free instead of buying Spyware Doc.

Right Dr Avinash?;D

[clocks]

-{ Quote: "and it doesn't include rootkit protection :thumbd:" }-

Are you sure? I thought it used to.

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "No, I think he means that Spyware Doc includes TF wich you can download and run along PCTools Av free. And then you get similar protection for free instead of buying Spyware Doc.

Right Dr Avinash?;D" }-

Thanks SweX, BTW some years back i have cleared Pre-Medical Examinations but Money Problem don't let me to take Admission in a medical college...:(

Happy to be a doctor of computer system...:D

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "and it doesn't include rootkit protection :thumbd:" }-

Gery please pay your visit to the site...I guess they have everything in free version except BB, which you can get from TF and that's just just for free:)

[clocks]

-{ Quote: "I haven't found any change log yet...But it seems that they are using a new-engine in this updated version.." }-

As in no more Virus buster engine, or just an updated version of it.

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "As in no more Virus buster engine, or just an updated version of it." }-
I heard it is using Norton engine..!!

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "As in no more Virus buster engine, or just an updated version of it." }-

One thing i would like to tell you that they have modified in-house virus/core engine. Couple of months back i have asked the same question with one of their Software Engineer and he have confirmed me the same...:)

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "I heard it is using Norton engine..!!" }-

I guess they have their own engine...But he said that they are using their own as well Norton's virus database..

[clocks]

-{ Quote: "One thing i would like to tell you that they have modified in-house virus/core engine. Couple of months back i have asked the same question with one of their Software Engineer and he have confirmed me the same...:)" }-


I'm tempted to check it out. This has always been a very light AV, but it never updated very often (maybe once per day), and it always performed bad in tests.

If it does have the Norton engine, that would be pretty sweet, but hard to believe.

[Ibrad]

They are using Nortons Virus Database :o thats a shock because I thought they will still using there own VDB.

[sg09]

PC Tools performed good in the latest AV Comparatives.

[Ibrad]

Wait! Is this now providing basic Antispyware :D

According to this page it: http://free.pctools.com/free-antivirus/ is says featuring basic Antivirus & Antispyware protection.

[sg09]

They are surely doing something new. I installed the previous version few weeks ago and it offered to download ~45Mb update and now it is offering ~90Mb.

[Ibrad]

Possibly the Antispyware Database, if this is true this may turn into a nice product.

[AskingAlexandria]

-{ Quote: "To achieve the Advance Protection, you can run Threatfire, which they are using in Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus 2010...

For Site-Guard and Browser Guard, you can use AVG Link Scanner and Rapport... You have everything now, and that just for free :D" }-
I have found Rapport to be heavy, you can alternatively use Prevx SafeOnline - Free through Facebook.

[icr]

-{ Quote: "I heard it is using Norton engine..!!" }-

Any concrete information:)

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "They are surely doing something new. I installed the previous version few weeks ago and it offered to download ~45Mb update and now it is offering ~90Mb." }-

I am sure they are going to do something new...May be this is in the response of Avast free...:D :P

Don't initiate any flame war or A vs B, but now it was confirmed that they are not dropping their Free AV now..

[SweX]

But they seem to already have discontinued their payed PcTools Av right, the one without Spyware doc?
called (PCTools Antivirus) Since they are only providing the Free version as of now.

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "But they seem to already have discontinued their payed PcTools Av right, the one without Spyware doc?
called (PCTools Antivirus) And they are only providing the Free version as of now." }-

I guess they have discontinued the last version and now they are supporting the new version which 7.0.0.545...:)

The name is pretty much the same "PC Tools Anti-Virus" :D

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "Any concrete information:)" }-
I read it somewhere, but I forgot. But it is true that PC Tools has been acquired by symentec.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PC_Tools_(Central_Point_Software)
http://www.symantec.com/about/news/release/article.jsp?prid=20080818_02
http://www.pcworld.com/reviews/product/61690/review/internet_security.html
http://www.pcworld.com/reviews/product/413773/review/internet_security_2010.html

[gery]

-{ Quote: "Gery please pay your visit to the site...I guess they have everything in free version except BB, which you can get from TF and that's just just for free:)" }-
it says something here though ttp ://i45.tinypic.com/263eans.jpg

[SweX]

Look under the Products Tab.> http://www.pctools.com/
and you will see:
SD
SD with AV
Pctools Av FREE
PCtools IS
TF
etc etc... So there isn't any PCtools Antivirus Paid version anymore.

This is what I meant there WAS a Paid and then there IS a FREE edition
http://www.pctools.com/forum/showpost.php?p=227252&postcount=3

But wich date was it that they were going to discontinue the payed version?
Today maybe::)

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "it says something here though ttp ://i45.tinypic.com/263eans.jpg" }-

Ahh it is just a marketing tricks, i don't think so that they will ignore anti-rootkits in their free version...Its a part of malware and they can't ignore it for sure...May be they are trying to tell you that it will be difficult for free version to detect more stealthy rootkits or the rootkits which have already installed in hidden mode...BTW these all are my opinions :)

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "Look under the Products Tab.> http://www.pctools.com/
and you will see:
SD
SD with AV
Pctools Av FREE
PCtools IS
TF
etc etc... So there isn't any PCtools Antivirus Paid version anymore.

This is what I meant there WAS a Paid and then there IS a FREE edition
http://www.pctools.com/forum/showpost.php?p=227252&postcount=3

But wich date was it that they were going to discontinue the payed version?
Today maybe::)" }-
see here
http://free.pctools.com/free-antivirus/upgrade/

[SweX]

No No that's SD with AV, and PCtools IS.

Before it was an paid version called (PCTools Antivirus) ONLY.
And PCTools Antivirus FREE as now.

The versions were called.
PCTools Antivirus
and
PCTools antivirus FREE

And the first one is now gone.

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "No No that's SD with AV, and PCtools IS.

Before it was an paid version called (PCTools Antivirus) ONLY.
And PCTools Antivirus FREE as now.

The versions were called.
PCTools Antivirus
and
PCTools antivirus FREE

And the first one is now gone." }-
You mean there were paid AV along with SD with AV?

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "it says something here though ttp ://i45.tinypic.com/263eans.jpg" }-

By the way by using the trailing methods you can have Full PC Tools Protection Mechanism

Core Protection

Antivirus & Antispyware:- PC Tools AV (Free Version)
File Guard:- PC Tools AV (Free Version)

Advanced Protection

Behavior Guard:- Threat Fire
Firewall:- PC Tools Firewall

Identity Protection

Site Guard & Browser Guard:- AVG Link Scanner

And other thing which is left here are useless, because you can have 24*7*365 days support on Wilders and that's for free.

[SweX]

Yes AV ONLY without SD. But not anymore it seems.

Hm... like this then:
Pctools Antivirus - Was the paid version wich is Now gone
Pctools Antivirus Free
SD
SD with AV
PT Internetsecurity
PT firewall
TF
etc...

[Vladimyr]

-{ Quote: "I'm tempted to check it out. This has always been a very light AV, but it never updated very often (maybe once per day), and it always performed bad in tests.

If it does have the Norton engine, that would be pretty sweet, but hard to believe." }-

Like the Google Pack SD+AV, it's another limited version of Spyware Doctor, this time with email scanning so with a 90MB definitions datatabase it's small memory footprint no longer!

[progress]

Product Comparison (http://free.pctools.com/free-antivirus/download/)

Great! :thumb:

With Email Guard it's like the free AVG version ... :) The detection rate at the latest AV-C was superior :thumb:

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "Product Comparison (http://free.pctools.com/free-antivirus/download/)

Great! :thumb:

With Email Guard it's like the free AVG version ... :) The detection rate at the latest AV-C was superior :thumb:" }-
Great find dude..:D

[CiX]

-{ Quote: "Product Comparison (http://free.pctools.com/free-antivirus/download/)" }-
When I visit this link it gives me an error message :(
218076

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "When I visit this link it gives me an error message :(
218076" }-
See here
218078

[CiX]

-{ Quote: "See here
218078" }-
Thanks:)
BTW anyone using PCTools AV now? How frequent PCTools AV update?

[sg09]

Well I have installed it and collected a few screenshots. Here are they

218079

218080

218081

218082

218083

[sg09]

I have collected only those screenshots that describe the difference between free and paid versions

218084

218085

[Vladimyr]

-{ Quote: "Are you sure? I thought it used to." }-

Though the malware definitions appear to be the same as for Spyware Doctor, rootkit protection is courtesy of "Process Guard", which is not included in either SD+AV Starter Edition (Google Pack) or the new Antivirus Free 7.0.0.545

[sg09]

Btw there is also a notification window at the bottom of the main window, that reminds me of AVG free.

218086

5 processes are running.
BDTUpdateService.exe (1.5mb)
pctsAuxs.exe (.5mb)
pctsGui.exe (4.5mb)
pcts.Svc.exe (25mb)
pctsTray.exe (1.5mb)

From the above screenshots it is sure that it can't scan for hidden files (rootkits)

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "Thanks:)
BTW anyone using PCTools AV now? How frequent PCTools AV update?" }-

Let me check. I have installed it.

[CiX]

There's a guard called ''Cookie Guard", but IMO cookie is harmless :-\

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "There's a guard called ''Cookie Guard", but IMO cookie is harmless :-\" }-
Cookie guard is for pro version. Check those screenshots. That is grayed out. Only file guard, Mail Guard and Immunizer guard in free version.

[Vladimyr]

-{ Quote: "Btw there is also a notification window at the bottom of the main window, that reminds me of AVG free.
" }-

What did you do to get that up? I haven't seen it on mine!

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "What did you do to get that up? I haven't seen it on mine!" }-
It came up automatically. I used XP in VMWare.

[sg09]

The same was also true in previous version. If they include all their free products like AV free, Threatfire, Firewall free and Browser defender free in a single product that would be a good free internet security..Lol

[sg09]

This AV free is detected by Immunet as PC Tools Spyware Doctor...:P

[CiX]

-{ Quote: "The same was also true in previous version. If they include all their free products like AV free, Threatfire, Firewall free and Browser defender free in a single product that would be a good free internet security..Lol" }-
Kinda strange;D Since Threatfire, Firewall Plus etc are free, why not just intergrated it into the free version??

[sg09]

Well I am impressed. I tested it with few fresh malwares from MDL. It detected many though either signature or heuristics. It detected them through real time scanning. But I thnk it is weak against rogue installers mainly fresh ones.

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "Well I am impressed. I tested it with few fresh malwares from MDL. It detected many though either signature or heuristics. It detected them through real time scanning. But I thnk it is weak against rogue installers mainly fresh ones." }-

Can you tell me the name of Any AV which is strong against fresh fake AV's ...?:P

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "This AV free is detected by Immunet as PC Tools Spyware Doctor...:P" }-

Sorry i didn't get you...???

[Vladimyr]

-{ Quote: "This AV free is detected by Immunet as PC Tools Spyware Doctor...:P" }-

That would be because it is. Though by "detected", do you mean it thinks it's a threat?

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "Can you tell me the name of Any AV which is strong against fresh fake AV's ...?:P" }-
AV made by fake AV vendors..;D

-{ Quote: "Sorry i didn't get you...???" }-

Not as a threat but as the existing AV..Lol

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "AV made by fake AV vendors..;D



Not as a threat but as the existing AV..Lol" }-

To be very honest, i still didn't get you :P :P

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "To be very honest, i still didn't get you :P :P" }-
Immunet checks a system for existing AV. I installed in my VM both PCTools and Immunet. And Immunet told Spyware Doctor is running instead of telling that PCTools AV is running.

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "Immunet checks a system for existing AV. I installed in my VM both PCTools and Immunet. And Immunet told Spyware Doctor is running instead of telling that PCTools AV is running." }-

Now i understood...:)

[RejZoR]

Are they still using just a limited set of signatures? Because that was really lame...

[Vladimyr]

-{ Quote: "Are they still using just a limited set of signatures? Because that was really lame..." }-

No. (Hi RejZor)
Sig database is identical for Antivirus Free, SD+AV (Starter & Full) & PCTIS.
Products are differentiated by detection techniques ("Guards") and added features.

[Vladimyr]

-{ Quote: "Immunet checks a system for existing AV. I installed in my VM both PCTools and Immunet. And Immunet told Spyware Doctor is running instead of telling that PCTools AV is running." }-

This is understandable because 'Antivirus Free 7.0.0.545' is really a version of Spyware Doctor by another name.

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "Are they still using just a limited set of signatures? Because that was really lame..." }-

No they are using the same VDB, which they are using for SD+AV and PCIS 2010...Even i have asked their executives on chat and they have confirmed me the same.:)

[RejZoR]

It was about time, because that crippled database was a complete turn off for me.

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "It was about time, because that crippled database was a complete turn off for me." }-

Have you tried this new version?

[progress]

-{ Quote: "
From the above screenshots it is sure that it can't scan for hidden files (rootkits)" }-

That's a pity :(

[sg09]

Just found, it has installed browser defender.

[bellgamin]

-{ Quote: "To be very honest, i still didn't get you" }-That lad is making a futile attempt at humor IMO.

As to fake AVs, Prevx does a good job at detecting them.

[marciocruz]

i have ask on the pctools forum,if they use symantec engine,and the answer is:

"Hi,

PC Tools is part of the Symantec Corporation so it makes sense to leverage technologies where it meets the needs of our customers. We do not share engines, rather we share the signature database and virus definitions which is a common and acceptable practice across the industry. We use these definitions in addition to a range of technologies that the PC Tools R&D team have developed in house."

more info:

http://www.pctools.com/forum/showthread.php?t=66248

[AvinashR]

Thanks for the confirmation ...

[Securon]

Good Morning ! Currently using Spyware Doctor & Anti-Virus 7.0.0.545 so far running light and perfectly compatible with Prevx 3.0 with Safe Online. And also use P.C. Tools Firewall Plus. Spyware Doctor uses ThreatFire in it's newest edition...I was initially suspect if the two apps might conflict...but so far everything is harmonious. Sincerely...Securon

[falkor]

-{ Quote: "This is understandable because 'Antivirus Free 7.0.0.545' is really a version of Spyware Doctor by another name." }-

Is the free AV actually Spyware Doctor in disguise ?

[SweX]

No I doubt it is, if you look here:
http://free.pctools.com/free-antivirus/download/

[sg09]

This free version is really good unless you have a infected PC because it lacks antirootkit scanning feature.

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "Good Morning ! Currently using Spyware Doctor & Anti-Virus 7.0.0.545 so far running light and perfectly compatible with Prevx 3.0 with Safe Online. And also use P.C. Tools Firewall Plus. Spyware Doctor uses ThreatFire in it's newest edition...I was initially suspect if the two apps might conflict...but so far everything is harmonious. Sincerely...Securon" }-
Wow... good to know that...:D

[sg09]

Too bad. After an update it has got converted to spyware doctor with antivirus trial...>:(

[Vladimyr]

-{ Quote: "Is the free AV actually Spyware Doctor in disguise ?" }-

It is Spyware Doctor - not "in disguise" - but in a limited configuration.

[PC_Pete]

-{ Quote: "Too bad. After an update it has got converted to spyware doctor with antivirus trial...>:(" }-


Sure it was update and not an upgrade?

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "Sure it was update and not an upgrade?" }-
I don't know. I did nothing manually.
I installed it in a VM. I started the Virtual OS and kept watching a movie. I didn't even notice when the OS was logged on, just heard the boot sound. After 1 hour when I watched there it had converted to the trial through auto-update.

[gery]

i tired it and it never reverted to SD it just stood there updating and doing its work normally. Make sure it wasn't an upgrade.

[progress]

-{ Quote: "How frequent PCTools AV update?" }-

:doubt:

[CiX]

-{ Quote: ":doubt:" }-
I didn't get you..:what:

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "i tired it and it never reverted to SD it just stood there updating and doing its work normally. Make sure it wasn't an upgrade." }-
How can I make it sure? As I said I did nothing manually. I don't know if there is any automatic upgrading option..:P What can I do is to uninstall and reinstall....

[SweX]

-{ Quote: ":doubt:" }-

I would say that the Free version updates at least once a day:)

But since I don't use it I'm not sure that i'm right though;)

[CiX]

-{ Quote: "I would say that the Free version updates at least once a day:)

But since I don't use it I'm not sure that i'm right though;)" }-
If PC Tools AV update frequently I might consider to use it ;)

[SweX]

Are you not satisfied with the Korean 360 you use at the moment?:P

[CiX]

-{ Quote: "Are you not satisfied with the Korean 360 you use at the moment?:P" }-
Not Korean AV, It's Chinese AV :P.
I m satisfied with my current AV, but I would like to try "free version of Norton AV". ;D
360 AV have Bit Defender engine while PC Tools AV have Norton database, hard to decide :blink:

[AvinashR]

I will go with Norton Database...:P

[SweX]

-{ Quote: "Not Korean AV, It's Chinese AV :P.
I m satisfied with my current AV, but I would like to try "free version of Norton AV". ;D" }-

AH... I see. You got a point there;)

But to me unfortunately::) , Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thailandish, Vietnamese all sounds the same and I would look like:what:

Even though I watch the serie LOST wich inludes two Korean actors I might understand some Korean,
but I don't know what yet:doubt:

[CiX]

Wait, No anti-rootkit in free version...:'(

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "Wait, No anti-rootkit in free version...:'(" }-

I guess Threat fire will able to protect you from that...Correct me if i am wrong..

Threat fire is still a strong BB and it is able to detect every nasty thing...

[progress]

-{ Quote: "Wait, No anti-rootkit in free version...:'(" }-

I know, it's like AVG: Full database but no anti-rootkit ::)

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "I know, it's like AVG: Full database but no anti-rootkit ::)" }-

Nope, AVG free has Basic Antirootkit protection. See here
http://www.avg.com/gb-en/free-antivirus

218200

[gery]

TF will be enough to protect you from rootkits. i uninstalled it anyway

[Ibrad]

This actually seems like PC Tools is moving forward, now all they need is to fix the Browser Defender Firefox + Google bug and this would be a nice combo.

[progress]

I really like this version of PC Tools AV - maybe someone can provide instructions how to remove the ad at the bottom ;D

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "I really like this version of PC Tools AV - maybe someone can provide instructions how to remove the ad at the bottom ;D" }-
Lets ask Techspot to make another Batch file like that for AVG...:P

[progress]

-{ Quote: "Lets ask Techspot to make another Batch file like that for AVG...:P" }-

I've already tried to rename several files, but it didn't work :( :D

[CiX]

-{ Quote: "I really like this version of PC Tools AV - maybe someone can provide instructions how to remove the ad at the bottom ;D" }-
How about maximized the main window, so you wont notice the ads??

[progress]

-{ Quote: "How about maximized the main window, so you wont notice the ads??" }-

It's a nice idea but I want to remove the mentioned ad without buying the full suite :)


-{ Quote: "now all they need is to fix the Browser Defender Firefox + Google bug and this would be a nice combo." }-

I noticed this bug too :(

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "How about maximized the main window, so you wont notice the ads??" }-

I guess this ad is not much annoying then AVG's ad or Avira's ad

[AvinashR]

BTW yesterday i have tested PC Tools AV + Threatfire 4.10 + PC Tools Firewall and i want to say that this combination worked very well...Rootkits are taken care by Threatfire...:D

[CiX]

-{ Quote: "PC Tools AV + Threatfire 4.10 + PC Tools Firewall" }-
=Free PC Tools Internet Security Suite :P

[progress]

BTW: I noticed a directory with name TFEngine - I thought PC Tools AV Free doesn't include ThreatFire? :doubt:

Last update was 1 hour(s) ago - I think it updates at least 2 times a day? :)

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "=Free PC Tools Internet Security Suite :P" }-

Absolutely...Its free PC Tools IS :D

PC Tools AV (free):- Powerful free protection against malicious virus infections! It provides world-leading protection against viruses, worms and Trojans with rapid updates and OnGuard™ technology.

Threatfire:- ThreatFire™ protects when your antivirus can't..It is an application designed to protect your computer against malware such as trojans, spyware, rootkits, keyloggers, and buffer overflows by intelligently detecting and blocking behavior consistent with that of malware.

PC Tools Firewall Plus:- PC Tools Firewall Plus is a powerful free personal firewall for Windows® that protects your computer by preventing unauthorized users from gaining access to your computer through the Internet or a network. By monitoring applications that connect to the network Firewall Plus can stop Trojans, backdoors, keyloggers and other malware from damaging your computer and stealing your private information.

Anything else required? :D

Answer is its sufficient !!:)

[Matthijs5nl]

-{ Quote: "Absolutely...Its free PC Tools IS :D

PC Tools AV (free):- Powerful free protection against malicious virus infections! It provides world-leading protection against viruses, worms and Trojans with rapid updates and OnGuard™ technology.

Threatfire:- ThreatFire™ protects when your antivirus can't..It is an application designed to protect your computer against malware such as trojans, spyware, rootkits, keyloggers, and buffer overflows by intelligently detecting and blocking behavior consistent with that of malware.

PC Tools Firewall Plus:- PC Tools Firewall Plus is a powerful free personal firewall for Windows® that protects your computer by preventing unauthorized users from gaining access to your computer through the Internet or a network. By monitoring applications that connect to the network Firewall Plus can stop Trojans, backdoors, keyloggers and other malware from damaging your computer and stealing your private information.

Anything else required? :D

Answer is its sufficient !!:)" }-
We from PC Tools.....

In comparison to PC Tools IS you miss some shields/guards in the av, in my eyes the PC Tools AV totally sucks anyway. Threatfire and the Firewall are good.

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "We from PC Tools.....

In comparison to PC Tools IS you miss some shields/guards in the av, in my eyes the PC Tools AV totally sucks anyway. Threatfire and the
Firewall are good." }-

You are from PC Tools team?

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "We from PC Tools.....

In comparison to PC Tools IS you miss some shields/guards in the av, in my eyes the PC Tools AV totally sucks anyway. Threatfire and the Firewall are good." }-

If you asking for shield then I'll recommend "AVG Link Scanner" and Browser Defender.

BTW what other guards i am missing? Please do lemme know.

[progress]

-{ Quote: "You are from PC Tools team?" }-

Welcome Matthijs5nl from PC Tools team :thumb:

-{ Quote: "
BTW what other guards i am missing? Please do lemme know." }-

All these other shields:

http://www.wilderssecurity.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=218082&d=1274250357

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "Welcome Matthijs5nl from PC Tools team :thumb:



All these other shields:

http://www.wilderssecurity.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=218082&d=1274250357" }-

OMG i miss so much :P

I guess these rest things will be taken care by Spyware Blaster, PC Tool firewall, Threatfire, AVG Link Scanner, Browser Defender...Anything else?

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "We from PC Tools.....

In comparison to PC Tools IS you miss some shields/guards in the av, in my eyes the PC Tools AV totally sucks anyway. Threatfire and the Firewall are good." }-

BTW if you are from PC Tools, then don't you think you yourself bashing your free product?::)

[Brocke]

so what make PC Tools AV so nice now? because past people didnt like it.

all i know so far is it is using Nortons database which is really nice. but what about the Engine how is that?


Brock

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "so what make PC Tools AV so nice now? because past people didnt like it.

all i know so far is it is using Nortons database which is really nice. but what about the Engine how is that?


Brock" }-

I am not at all in favor to use PC Tools AV (free) all alone. I recommend it to use with Threatfire and PC Tools Firewall (If Required)..All this combination will give you top notch protection for sure...

[Brocke]

yeah im pretty impress so far with the AV and Threatfire, really nice comobo

[clocks]

-{ Quote: "yeah im pretty impress so far with the AV and Threatfire, really nice comobo" }-

Threatfire is a nice combo with just about any AV.

[progress]

-{ Quote: "
all i know so far is it is using Nortons database which is really nice. but what about the Engine how is that?
" }-

I think a complete norton database instead of a crippled pctools database is a great improvement :) That was the main reason I didn't like PC Tools AV ... ::) The engine should be ok, it scored superior in AV-C tests. Unfortunately it's impossible to scan for hidden files with the free AV but you can install TF as well.

However, as I've already mentioned I noticed a directory with the name "TFEngine" - I don't know why it's there? :doubt:

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "Threatfire is a nice combo with just about any AV." }-

Agree, Threatfire is really a nice BB :D

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "
http://www.wilderssecurity.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=218082&d=1274250357" }-
You have mistaken. Immunizer Guard is there in the free version. Only those guards that are grayed out are disabled.


-{ Quote: ""TFEngine"[/B] - I don't know why it's there? :doubt:" }-
I think it is there because this version can easily be upgraded with a serial. So, no additional files will be downloaded.

[progress]

-{ Quote: "
I think it is there because this version can easily be upgraded with a serial. So, no additional files will be downloaded." }-

That would make sense :)

Last update was 1 hour(s) ago - I think PC Tools AV Free includes Norton pulse updates? ;D ;D

[SAW]

You should note the AV can only update in the Admin. account, sort of sucks if you want to run in a limited user account.

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "
Last update was 1 hour(s) ago - I think PC Tools AV Free includes Norton pulse updates? ;D ;D" }-

Nahh i don't think so, because today itself i have tried to update it manually, but it says that you have the updated database...

But that database was updated by me 17 hrs ago..So i guess they are updating it on daily basis not in hourly basis...

[progress]

-{ Quote: "You should note the AV can only update in the Admin. account, sort of sucks if you want to run in a limited user account." }-

I can't believe it :-[

[SAW]

I may be wrong but in my XP machine it says it needs administrator rights to update. Correction it seems that it did update the defs. by itself as it now states last update 1 hour ago and the machine has been in limited user the whole time, however SmartUpdates requires admin rights, that's not quite as bad as my first impression.

[progress]

-{ Quote: "
But that database was updated by me 17 hrs ago..So i guess they are updating it on daily basis not in hourly basis..." }-

View History:

12:06 Smart Update
18:06 Smart Update

It tries to update every 6 hours? Please give me details of your event history :)

Edit: It's really hard to find the right update button :D :D

[SAW]

under advanced settings what will ticking (Enable kernel compatibly mode) do?

[jay2007tech]

-{ Quote: "You have mistaken. Immunizer Guard is there in the free version. Only those guards that are grayed out are disabled." }-
Oh no, cookie shield is greyed out. :argh: with a stripped down database

Your better off with avast, it's got all the needed shield and avast doesn't strip down there database (you can get threatfire if need)

[progress]

-{ Quote: "Oh no, cookie shield is greyed out. :argh:
" }-

:D :D

-{ Quote: "
with a stripped down database
" }-

I think this isn't true any more ... :)

[CiX]

-{ Quote: "with a stripped down database" }-
They use norton database now :o

[raven211]

-{ Quote: "They use norton database now :o" }-

HAHA! I can imagine what the basher-response will be to this one. :argh: ;D

[PC_Pete]

Some clarifications.

I'm not sure that "Totally sucks" is a technically sound appraisal of previous versions of PC Tools AV but "Antivirus Free 7.0.0.545" is a completely different product. At its core is 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus'.

All Spyware Doctor versions and its derivatives, including "Antivirus Free 7.0.0.545", have used full Symantec database since v.7. It's not new anymore.

All Spyware Doctor versions and its derivatives, including "Antivirus Free 7.0.0.545", update automatically with Windows XP as "User" but manual update requires "Administrator". Change the setting to update automatically (silently) to be sure.

[AvinashR]

-{ Quote: "Some clarifications.

I'm not sure that "Totally sucks" is a technically sound appraisal of previous versions of PC Tools AV but "Antivirus Free 7.0.0.545" is a completely different product. At its core is 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus'.

All Spyware Doctor versions and its derivatives, including "Antivirus Free 7.0.0.545", have used full Symantec database since v.7. It's not new anymore.

All Spyware Doctor versions and its derivatives, including "Antivirus Free 7.0.0.545", update automatically with Windows XP as "User" but manual update requires "Administrator". Change the setting to update automatically (silently) to be sure." }-

One question...Are you from PC Tools?

[Firecat]

-{ Quote: "One question...Are you from PC Tools?" }-
Not exactly.....he's a volunteer from the PC Tools official forum. He is well-versed with the software and (AFAIK) is very helpful with users' problems at that forum.

PC_Pete, it's very nice to see you here - I do hope you stick around! :)

[pabrate]

It's not Norton database.
I've tested it and Norton catches what PCTools doesn't , and what PCT catches Norton doesn't (they are all FP's)
So, PCT sucks :D

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "It's not Norton database.
I've tested it and Norton catches what PCTools doesn't , and what PCT catches Norton doesn't (they are all FP's)
So, PCT sucks :D" }-
Have you tested with new malwares? May be Norton is giving the database at a later time.

[pabrate]

-{ Quote: "Have you tested with new malwares? May be Norton is giving the database at a later time." }-

No, just the files I have on my hard drive (full scan with both).

But anyway, let's face the facts here ... why would Norton give their database to free for all product ??
I can't find a good reason.

[progress]

-{ Quote: "
But anyway, let's face the facts here ... why would Norton give their database to free for all product ??
" }-

Why would Avira, Avast, AVG or Panda give you their database for free? :dry: Because they want to sell the AV Pro and the Internet Security. If you compare Symantec and PC Tools at AV-C you will notice very similar results.

[pabrate]

Well, maybe because their product is free :P
If norton has product out there which is the same as their AV , why would they sell it then ?
They can in that case just ship AV for free (because they want to sell their better products :P)

It's simple, you have free products and you have paid products.
Choise is down to user.

[Firecat]

I think that Symantec and PC Tools "internally" share databases - that is, the detections/definitions are available to both labs, but the actual addition to the product database files is done separately by the staff of both companies. This is just a theory though.....it may be true considering that the database formats and certain detections (heuristic, FP etc.) seem different between products of the two companies.

[PC_Pete]

-{ Quote: "One question...Are you from PC Tools?" }-

-{ Quote: "Not exactly.....he's a volunteer from the PC Tools official forum. He is well-versed with the software and (AFAIK) is very helpful with users' problems at that forum.

PC_Pete, it's very nice to see you here - I do hope you stick around! :)" }-

No. I'm not from PC Tools - but I am in the same city as someone who is and who knows "stuff" about their products (http://www.pctools.com/forum/showpost.php?p=229971&postcount=3).

Glad to be helpful if/when I can.
Pete

[progress]

Why does it scan all the time even If I delete all scheduled scans? :doubt:

[falkor]

I was under the impression that the only antivirus PC TOOLS has is the free one now .? So they still have the paid version then . Because all the features are not available in the free version . I wish they would get it straight .>:(

[PC_Pete]

-{ Quote: "Why does it scan all the time even If I delete all scheduled scans? :doubt:" }-

I don't know. Not happening here (see attachment).
I edited the default schedule, top line is the report from a scheduled 'intelli-scan' yesterday.
Maybe if you delete all listed scans a default schedule is invoked.
Try setting a 'one time only' scan and see what happens.

[progress]

-{ Quote: "
Maybe if you delete all listed scans a default schedule is invoked.
" }-

I see :)

However, I'm going to uninstall PC Tools AV. Maybe someone can find out how to remove the ads - then I will try it again ;D

[PC_Pete]

-{ Quote: "I was under the impression that the only antivirus PC TOOLS has is the free one now .? So they still have the paid version then . Because all the features are not available in the free version . I wish they would get it straight .>:(" }-

Easiest just to forget about PCTAV 3,4,5 & 6 altogether. There is no longer any paid version or any free version of these.

There is now:

an apparently free-for-all-users version of 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus' called 'PC Tools AntiVirus Free' (currently v.7.0.0.545) with 'File Guard', 'Immunizer Guard', 'Email Guard' and 'Browser Defender' only,

a free-for-non-commercial-use version of 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus' available in some language groups via 'Google Pack' called (comparatively straightforwardly) 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus - Starter Edition' (currently v.7.0.0.545) with (from memory) 'File Guard' and 'Immunizer Guard' only,

a paid version of 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus' (currently v.7.0.0.545),

and, a paid version of 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus' with added firewall and spam control called "PC Tools Internet Security'.

There is also 'Security for Netbooks' which I know very little about and think it might just disappear due to lack of interest and/or lack of a trial version.

[Matthijs5nl]

-{ Quote: "Easiest just to forget about PCTAV 3,4,5 & 6 altogether. There is no longer any paid version or any free version of these.

There is now:

an apparently free-for-all-users version of 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus' called 'PC Tools AntiVirus Free' (currently v.7.0.0.545) with 'File Guard', 'Immunizer Guard', 'Email Guard' and 'Browser Defender' only,

a free-for-non-commercial-use version of 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus' available in some language groups via 'Google Pack' called (comparatively straightforwardly) 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus - Starter Edition' (currently v.7.0.0.545) with (from memory) 'File Guard' and 'Immunizer Guard' only,

a paid version of 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus' (currently v.7.0.0.545),

and, a paid version of 'Spyware Doctor with Antivirus' with added firewall and spam control called "PC Tools Internet Security'.

There is also 'Security for Netbooks' which I know very little about and think it might just disappear due to lack of interest and/or lack of a trial version." }-
In my eyes that business model totally sucks (just like the product itself, but flame me if you want to).
There are numerously free versions, which are all extremely crippled down. With like only three of the I don't know how many shields the pro version has. It might share signatures with Norton (which ain't true I think, probably also just a crippled down signature pack), but the free version is a total no go (it doesn't has any proactive defense, just signatures), with much better alternatives available (MSE, Panda Cloud, AVG, avast! and Avira).

[Firecat]

I think PCTAV now uses Norton's AV engine. I saw the files naveng32.dll and navex32a.dll in the PC Tools "avdb" folder! That's actually some pretty good news if it's true.....:)

[Ibrad]

That's good...the must have been why it took so long for v7 to be released.

[clocks]

-{ Quote: "I think PCTAV now uses Norton's AV engine. I saw the files naveng32.dll and navex32a.dll in the PC Tools "avdb" folder! That's actually some pretty good news if it's true.....:)" }-


Hmmm That is interesting.

[wtsinnc]

I strolled over to AV-Comparatives and took a look at the test results from the February, 2010 test (on-demand).

It's striking to me how similar the detection percentages in each category are for PC Tools and Symantec.

~ Removed Direct PDF Link as per AV-Comparatives Request - See Main-Tests (http://www.av-comparatives.org/comparativesreviews/main-tests) page for the actual PDF ~

[Firecat]

-{ Quote: "Hmmm That is interesting." }-
I uncovered some more info too.....The "avdb" folder also has a text file which has many Symantec references in it.....the database from Symantec is definitely there, so are the engine DLLs in fact. In addition, PC Tools has it's own AV/AS engine modules (with a database) too, which might account for a few detections more compared to Norton.

As far as actual detections go, in my testing I noticed that it basically detects everything Norton does, but under different names. Also, the heuristic detections (and apparently, heuristic techniques) seem to be different between Norton and PC Tools and it's not guaranteed that if NAV has a heuristic detection, then PC Tools does too (and vice versa). This seems to support my previous theory of databases being "internally" shared between the two companies but the actual addition of signatures is still done separately, because if one just had to "port" the database into a product, the developers wouldn't really want to spend the extra time (IMO) to rename all the detections.

Some very old samples (1999-2002 period) I had displayed a lower detection rate that caused me some worry initially, but at least as far as samples from 2008 onwards go, Norton and PC Tools detected the same files (apart from a few extra riskware/cookies/rogue that PC Tools detected, but those were like only 2 or 3 files so I wouldn't call it significant).

Other comments: Having used PC Tools Internet Security (during which I have found all this information), I do feel that this product is not as performance-optimized as Norton is. The scans are slower, it takes more memory and sometimes it does feel quite heavy. It's not too bad, but I think between Norton and PC Tools, performance-wise there is a noticeable difference. But one has to consider that PC Tools is value oriented and often comes cheaper than Norton products. Both seem to be very effective in their protection, though I think Symantec/Norton is better for the security enthusiasts.

[sg09]

Thanks for the informations FireCat.

[progress]

-{ Quote: "but the free version is a total no go (it doesn't has any proactive defense, just signatures), with much better alternatives available (MSE, Panda Cloud, AVG, avast! and Avira)." }-

What do you mean? Heuristics? :doubt:

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "What do you mean? Heuristics? :doubt:" }-
Heuristic is there but no BB of Threatfire.

[Matthijs5nl]

PC Tools Internet Security has a lot of Guards:
-Behavior Guard
-Browser Guard
-Cookie Guard
-Email Guard
-File Guard
-Immunizer Guard
-Network Guard
-Process Guard
-Site Guard
-Startup Guard

Maybe I did miss one, but of all those shields: the free version got a total of three: Email Guard, File Guard and Immunizer Guard. Spyware Doctor with Antivirus contains like two more I think.
File Guard is ofcourse the most important and is included, but File Guard is exactly how traditional antiviruses works, using signatures. And everyone on Wilders (also antivirus vendors themselves) agrees on the fact that signature-based detection doesn't work anymore. But the conclusion is that PC Tools Antivirus Free is heavily crippled software, far more than AVG Free, avast! Free, Avira Personal, Panda Cloud Antivirus Free (and Microsoft Security Essentials) (Those are all beter anyway). So all the shields which should help the File Guard for providing better zero-day protection (Behavior Guard: Threatfire, Process Guard, Startup Guard and so on) or provide earlier detection of the malware (Browser Guard, Network Guard, Site Guard) are not available. It is also crippled in database I heard.

Conclusion: In my eyes PC Tools Internet Security already isn't worth any penny, so how could it's heavily crippled free variant be worth any penny. In other words: PC Tools Antivirus Free sucks big time. Got nothing to do with being PC Tools basher or not, it is just the truth.

[progress]

I see, yes ... maybe it's too crippled to use it these days :(

[Matthijs5nl]

-{ Quote: "I see, yes ... maybe it's too crippled to use it these days :(" }-
Of course I can be wrong: but I am sure if I am wrong, somebody will say it here.

[clocks]

-{ Quote: "PC Tools Internet Security has a lot of Guards:
-Behavior Guard
-Browser Guard
-Cookie Guard
-Email Guard
-File Guard
-Immunizer Guard
-Network Guard
-Process Guard
-Site Guard
-Startup Guard

" }-


Most those guards are not needed. If someone ran the free software I would just add Threatfire. But I agree, there are other free options that are probably better.

[gery]

PCT IS is not really that bad though but the free AV its not that good

[PC_Pete]

-{ Quote: "PC Tools Internet Security has a lot of Guards:
-Behavior Guard
-Browser Guard
-Cookie Guard
-Email Guard
-File Guard
-Immunizer Guard
-Network Guard
-Process Guard
-Site Guard
-Startup Guard

Maybe I did miss one, but of all those shields: the free version got a total of three: Email Guard, File Guard and Immunizer Guard. Spyware Doctor with Antivirus contains like two more I think.
File Guard is ofcourse the most important and is included, but File Guard is exactly how traditional antiviruses works, using signatures. And everyone on Wilders (also antivirus vendors themselves) agrees on the fact that signature-based detection doesn't work anymore. But the conclusion is that PC Tools Antivirus Free is heavily crippled software, far more than AVG Free, avast! Free, Avira Personal, Panda Cloud Antivirus Free (and Microsoft Security Essentials) (Those are all beter anyway). So all the shields which should help the File Guard for providing better zero-day protection (Behavior Guard: Threatfire, Process Guard, Startup Guard and so on) or provide earlier detection of the malware (Browser Guard, Network Guard, Site Guard) are not available. It is also crippled in database I heard.

Conclusion: In my eyes PC Tools Internet Security already isn't worth any penny, so how could it's heavily crippled free variant be worth any penny. In other words: PC Tools Antivirus Free sucks big time. Got nothing to do with being PC Tools basher or not, it is just the truth." }-

I agree that there are a number of more amenable free products to be considered ahead of PC Tools AV Free but your overall conclusion seems to be derived as much from heresay as from hard evidence.
Also, it is a little scary responding to someone who keeps asking to be corrected or flamed but can you clarify:

Which antivirus vendors have ceased using signature matching because it "doesn't work anymore"? Most I know of are continually refining and enhancing it.

Where did you "hear" that PC Tools Antivirus Free is "crippled in database"?
(And is that anything like being stabbed in the rotunda?;D )

Given that PC Tools IS is consistently achieving at or near the highest rating for malware detection and removal in comparison to all others, especially on already infected systems (though it does use a lot of RAM), "any penny" sound like remarkably good value!

[Matthijs5nl]

-{ Quote: "I agree that there are a number of more amenable free products to be considered ahead of PC Tools AV Free but your overall conclusion seems to be derived as much from heresay as from hard evidence.
Also, it is a little scary responding to someone who keeps asking to be corrected or flamed but can you clarify:

Which antivirus vendors have ceased using signature matching because it "doesn't work anymore"? Most I know of are continually refining and enhancing it.

Where did you "hear" that PC Tools Antivirus Free is "crippled in database"?
(And is that anything like being stabbed in the rotunda?;D )

Given that PC Tools IS is consistently achieving at or near the highest rating for malware detection and removal in comparison to all others, especially on already infected systems (though it does use a lot of RAM), "any penny" sound like remarkably good value!" }-
Ok, then it might not be true that PC tools is crippled in database, or maybe that was the previous version.
(I don't know what the word rotunda means, but I do think in understand the line, I have to admit the :D deserves to be there.)

It is not about ceasing signatures or whatever, I haven't said something like that. But the point is that signatures alone can't do it anymore and need help. And the shields which should do that by assisting the main signature/heuristic driven File Guard are removed from the free version.

I guess you have seen the latest May report of AV-Comparatives? 17% for PC Tools and 43% for Symantec. (This also makes the point invalid that Symantec and PC Tools share technologies after Symantec bought PC Tools, as some said.)

But ofcourse, I could be wrong. Correct me if I am.
With the correct me/flame me if I am wrong, I just want to show it is not that I am a PC Tools basher or prejudiced against PC Tools in any way.

[Firecat]

-{ Quote: "I guess you have seen the latest May report of AV-Comparatives? 17% for Panda and 43% for Symantec." }-

That's 17% for PC Tools :)

Anyway, that test is just on-demand detection, i.e. it tests the heuristics of the AV engine, not the behaviour-based, on access/execution protection. I cannot comment much on the free version, but the PC Tools Internet Security product does have quite decent behaviour-based protection......

EDIT:

-{ Quote: "(This also makes the point invalid that Symantec and PC Tools share technologies after Symantec bought PC Tools, as some said.)" }-

As I have mentioned previously in this thread, they share common scan technologies (scan engine) and the signature database. Note that I did mention that the heuristic detections were different between Norton and PC Tools. Norton also has insight technology which does a cloud-based lookup of the files and does a reputation analysis. So it could be "better" in this regard.

[Matthijs5nl]

-{ Quote: "That's 17% for PC Tools :)

Anyway, that test is just on-demand detection, i.e. it tests the heuristics of the AV engine, not the behaviour-based, on access/execution protection. I cannot comment much on the free version, but the PC Tools Internet Security product does have quite decent behaviour-based protection......" }-
That is true (the version tested was the Spyware Doctor + AV). The fuctions you describe are exactly the functions the free version lacks.

[progress]

-{ Quote: "
I guess you have seen the latest May report of AV-Comparatives? 17% for PC Tools and 43% for Symantec. (This also makes the point invalid that Symantec and PC Tools share technologies after Symantec bought PC Tools, as some said.)
" }-

I think you are right, PC Tools will always be a crippled Norton ::)

[CiX]

-{ Quote: "I think you are right, PC Tools will always be a crippled Norton ::)" }-
for free ;D

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "I think you are right, PC Tools will always be a crippled Norton ::)" }-
In regards of zero-day malware. But with known malwares it will be at per.

[Gullible Jones]

Not that that matters, since you can pretty easily turn known malware into unknown malware using an executable compressor.

[Eice]

-{ Quote: "Not that that matters, since you can pretty easily turn known malware into unknown malware using an executable compressor." }-
That's quite a gross oversimplification.

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "Not that that matters, since you can pretty easily turn known malware into unknown malware using an executable compressor." }-
That's what most 0day malware do...;D

[PC_Pete]

-{ Quote: "Ok, then it might not be true that PC tools is crippled in database, or maybe that was the previous version.
(I don't know what the word rotunda means, but I do think in understand the line, I have to admit the :D deserves to be there.)

It is not about ceasing signatures or whatever, I haven't said something like that. But the point is that signatures alone can't do it anymore and need help. And the shields which should do that by assisting the main signature/heuristic driven File Guard are removed from the free version.

I guess you have seen the latest May report of AV-Comparatives? 17% for PC Tools and 43% for Symantec. (This also makes the point invalid that Symantec and PC Tools share technologies after Symantec bought PC Tools, as some said.)

But ofcourse, I could be wrong. Correct me if I am.
With the correct me/flame me if I am wrong, I just want to show it is not that I am a PC Tools basher or prejudiced against PC Tools in any way." }-

First, explanation (off topic).
"They got him right in the rotunda" is from an old but very funny sketch by Canadian commedians John Wayne and Frank Shuster, available here: Rinse the blood off my toga (http://www.archive.org/details/RinseTheBloodOffMyToga) - the line is about 2:17 minutes in.
"got him right in the rotunda", "crippled in the database" - maybe you had to be there. ;D

It is indeed a mystery as to why there is such a disparity between Norton and PC Tools in the retrospective test, when their results are almost identical in the ~ Removed Direct PDF Link as per AV-Comparatives Request - See Main-Tests (http://www.av-comparatives.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=144&Itemid=152) page for the actual PDF ~ On-demand Comparative test in February[/URL]. I'll go undercover and dig deeper.8)

[PC_Pete]

Oops! I didn't realize (till now) that forum links counted as hosting a document. Always learning.

Speaking of learning, I interpreted this statement (http://www.pctools.com/forum/showpost.php?p=229971&postcount=3), "we share the signature database and virus definitions" as meaning they are the same for each product. Turns out they are not, and so I apologise for misleading anyone by repeating what I believed to be true.

According to PC Tools, they do not share the exact same database as each other because they have a different engine to that of Norton. They work on their engines whereas Symantec work on theirs. They may share some technologies, signatures etc but still a different product altogether.

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "
It is indeed a mystery as to why there is such a disparity between Norton and PC Tools in the retrospective test, when their results are almost identical in the ~ Removed Direct PDF Link as per AV-Comparatives Request - See Main-Tests (http://www.av-comparatives.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=144&Itemid=152) page for the actual PDF ~ On-demand Comparative test in February[/URL]. I'll go undercover and dig deeper.8)" }-
Dude in On-demand comarative there will be similarity because they share the database for known virus, but in retrospective tests, the heutistic engine plays the role, not the database, and PC Tools do not share same engine as Norton.

[PC_Pete]

-{ Quote: "Dude in On-demand comarative there will be similarity because they share the database for known virus, but in retrospective tests, the heutistic engine plays the role, not the database, and PC Tools do not share same engine as Norton." }-

Yeah, I had already cosidered that but didn't think it would entirely account for such a 'chasm' between them.

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "Yeah, I had already cosidered that but didn't think it would entirely account for such a 'chasm' between them." }-
Lol, but that's the fact. I think PC Tools will learn from this incident. But this result is from 3 months old PC Tools engine version. They have updated in betwwen and I wish we will see a good result this november.

[progress]

-{ Quote: "Dude in On-demand comarative there will be similarity because they share the database for known virus, but in retrospective tests, the heutistic engine plays the role, not the database, and PC Tools do not share same engine as Norton." }-

I think that's the reality :) On-demand detection seems to be good, but as Matthijs said: There are no proactive features in the free version! :ouch:

All the other freebies have better proactive features ...

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "I think that's the reality :) On-demand detection seems to be good, but as Matthijs said: There are no proactive features in the free version! :ouch:

All the other freebies have better proactive features ..." }-
No.. Proactive defense means heuristics is there in free version. Only BB protection from Threatfire part is absent. That can be installed separately.:)

[progress]

-{ Quote: "Proactive defense means heuristics is there in free version." }-

But where? All the proactive shields are not available.

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "But where? All the proactive shields are not available." }-
Oho, heuristic engine is itself within the file guard.:)

[progress]

-{ Quote: "Oho, heuristic engine is itself within the file guard.:)" }-

-{ Quote: "
I guess you have seen the latest May report of AV-Comparatives? 17% for PC Tools and 43% for Symantec.
" }-

Great heuristic engine :-[

[sg09]

-{ Quote: "Great heuristic engine :-[" }-
This is not their present heuristic engine. Lets hope it is better now.:)

[pajenn]

I recently installed this program (PC Tools AV Free 7) on my desktop because I got infected with a nasty case of Licum/Tenga virus and wanted to reinforce my defenses. I was able to clean the infection, but lost 2 days on that computer, plus I need to reinstall Matlab now.

For on-demand scans I prefer a2cmd and ClamWinPortable. The thing I like about this program is that it gives you decent real-time protection for free, but you can also turn it off completely when you don't think you need it.

On the minus side, it took me 3 attempts to fully install/update it (mind you I was partially infected at the time - I had restored a clean image of the system partition, but the virus was still present on another partition). Also, I had problems booting/running the computer with it active (maybe conflicts with other programs/firewall) - anyway, it seems to be okay for now (after a bunch of whitelisting).*

Question: What would be a better free choice for real-time protection that can be turned on and off (not just semi-off), that is, on-demand real-time malware protection?


* other protection: Prevx Free + Look 'n' Stop firewall (probably configured badly) when I got infected + Rising PC Doctor for on-demand real-time stuff plus system vulnerability fixes. After virus I switched to Online Armor Free for firewall, and added PCTAV and Trend Micro RUBotted. (Currently I keep Prevx off when PCTAV is on and vice versa). a2cmd and others for on-demand scans.