AV-TEST Product Review and Certification Report
During January and February 2012 we continuously evaluated 23 home user security products using their default settings. We always used the most current publicly-available version of all products for the testing. They were allowed to update themselves at any time and query their in-the-cloud services. We focused on realistic test scenarios and challenged the products against real-world threats. Products had to demonstrate their capabilities using all components and protection layers.
Protection
Protection against malware infections
(such as viruses, worms or Trojan horses)
Protection against 0-day malware attacks, inclusive of web and e-mail threats (Real-World Testing)
97 samples used
95.0
96.0
94.0
Detection of a representative set of malware discovered in the last 2-3 months (AV-TEST reference set)
229,183 samples used
97.0
100
100
Detection of widespread and prevalent malware (according to AV-TEST data)
5,000 samples used
100
100
100
Protection Score
5.0/ 6.0
Repair
Cleaning and repair of a malware-infected computer
Detection of actively running widespread malware (including Rootkits and stealth malware)
39 samples used
100
100
Removal of all active components of widespread malware (including Rootkits and stealth malware)
39 samples used
77.0
67.0
Removal of further malicious components and remediation of critical system modifications
39 samples used
54.0
33.0
Repair Score
3.5/ 6.0
Usability
Impact of the security software on the usability of the whole computer
(lower values indicate better results)
Average slow-down of the computer by the security software in daily use
Number of test cases: 5
10
13s
False detections of legitimate software as malware during a system scan (false positives)
516,545 samples used
False warnings of certain actions during download, installation and use of legitimate software
24 samples used
False blockings of certain actions during download, installation and use of legitimate software
24 samples used
Usability Score
4.5/ 6.0
Evaluation based on a point system
All products can achieve a maximum of 6 points each in the three categories of protection, performance and usability. This means 18 points are the best possible test result.
At 10 points or higher, a product is awarded the AV-TEST seal of approval.
At 17.5 points or higher, AV-TEST also issues the "TOP PRODUCT" award.


