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This is what it does: Antivirus programs, internet security packages and even more the much more extensive premium packages with names such as Prime, Total or Smart offer many to many additional functions. These include a secure browser, a VPN service, webcam protection, a password manager and much more. The question of whether you need these additional functions cannot be answered clearly. It is true that almost every one of these functions puts another layer of protection around your system. The function of secure browsers makes it more difficult for hostile code to access information in online banking. A webcam protection detects code that secretly tries to switch on the camera in the notebook. All of these functions have their justification and add value to the security package. However, it is unclear whether you will need it as a private PC user. This can be compared with insurance cover for private users: you need liability insurance. All experts agree on this. But home contents or disability insurance are not absolutely necessary for many people.
Recommendation: If you want the best possible protection
against PC viruses, use the most comprehensive security package possible. If
you already feel safe with good basic protection, the simple Windows antivirus
tool or the program from an antivirus manufacturer will suffice.
Automatic
update, new versions, missing version numbers
Antivirus programs that are subject to a fee are only
available as a subscription. As a rule, you buy the software, or more precisely
the service provided by the antivirus manufacturer, for one year. With most
providers, the subscription is not renewed automatically, but there are some
who automatically request the price for a further year after twelve months.
As long as the paid period is valid, you will receive
updates on an ongoing basis. This includes new virus signatures as well as
updates to the scan engine. Both are necessary for the software to recognize
new malware.