PC/Web Security Tools

  

Bitdefender Total Security 2014 backs top-rated antivirus protection with fast scans and many extras designed to protect you online, like Safepay and the Bitdefender Wallet for safe and private online purchases, customizable Intrusion Detection and Web Protection, and a Vulnerability Scan for out-of-date programs. It also cleans and optimizes your PC. However, some features designed to help install Bitdefender might cause frustration.

Pros

Privacy: Bitdefender's Wallet securely stores and automatically enters online credentials. Other privacy enhancements include Parental Controls, File Encryption, Safego, and Safebox.

Protect: The Intrusion Detection feature's Permissive, Medium, and Aggressive settings let us customize alert deliveries. The Vulnerability scans found updates for programs and drivers we didn't realize needed updating.

Web protection: Online security features include Scan SSL and fraud and anti-phishing protection. The Antispam Protection tool blocks emails with Chinese (default) and Cyrillic (optional) characters, though both can be changed.

Cons

Installation woes: Bitdefender's installer automatically uninstalls any existing and conflicting antivirus and security software. This is a good idea in principle that let us down in practice by freezing up and interfering with our Internet connection.

Software incompatibility: Safepay conflicted with Acronis' scheduler. Bitdefender's installer also removed Spybot Search & Destroy.

Bottom Line

Bitdefender Total Security 2014 scans quickly and is packed with security, privacy, and performance tools that seemingly justify its purchase price. But features designed for convenience could actually discourage some users. Take our advice and uninstall any existing antivirus software before installing Bitdefender Total Security 2014.