Scope of Protection:  

Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper is a very comprehensive desktop antivirus package. The software protects from threats from several sources, and the several layers of protection keep your computer safe. Webroot protects PC’s from viruses in all forms, as well as worms, Trojans, malware, and rootkits.

Webroot monitors and detects all sorts of malicious files and just plain unwanted programs like adware, dialers, cookies, and keyloggers. The integrated Spy Sweeper is an amazing standalone anti-spyware software that in itself protects from a variety of computer threats.

The software is completely armed to not only detect, but effectively remove malicious files, even ending running processes and removing associated registry entries. Webroot’s defensive technologies help keep your information protected from hackers and identity thieves.

But more than just being on the defense, Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper also features proactive technology to find malware before it even has the chance to hit your computer. With today’s newest threats being designed to bypass traditional signature-based scanning, advanced protection is so important. Webroot’s “zero-hour” protection analyzes files for malicious behavior and other incriminating behavior, and blocks files that might prove to be a virus in disguise.

Effectiveness:  

Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper revolves around 16 protective “shields” that cover your network, web browsing, Widows, startup programs, and email.

The web browser shields keep you safe online, blocking from Internet Explorer hijacks, exploits, and even unwanted browser “helper” objects. The email shield works for both emails you receive (Pop3 port 110) and messages you send (SMTP port 25), so you won’t accidentally forward along a threat to your friends, family, or coworkers.

Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper is comprised of two powerful components (antivirus and antispyware, obviously). The desktop antivirus component is powered by business security experts Sophos. The antispyware element is managed by Webroot’s own Spy Sweeper.

Sophos’ antivirus protection is certainly up to par, earning several recent Virus Bulletin VB 100% awards. These certify that the antivirus engine is completely capable of protecting from 100% of known in-the-wild viruses. The reactive and proactive rates were similarly impressive, finding 81.8% (significantly higher than almost all other antivirus software tested).

The software is also ICSA approved, and certified from the West Coast Labs as an effective solution for desktop antivirus, anti-trojan, anti-malware, and antispyware.

The antispyware software included is second to none. Webroot Spy Sweeper provides an impressively high level of protection from spyware and other identity-compromising malware. Combined with antispyware protection from Sophos, Webroot AntiVirus with Spy Sweeper is certainly effective.