Antivirus

Maybe you're sick of playing antivirus tag. Network Associates and Symantec, makers of McAfee and Norton (the two best antivirus utilities), keep releasing new versions one after the other, each containing small refinements. But McAfee VirusScan 4.0 introduces a better interface and clever new features.

While previous versions of McAfee VirusScan scored high in effectiveness, their plain-vanilla look and feel often made performing typical chores and customizing settings unduly arduous. That's changed considerably in version 4.0, based on the preproduction copy I tested.

McAfee VirusScan Central, the integrated control panel, gives you handy access to the program's main tools as well as to hints and tips. It suggests when virus signature files need updating and when the PC needs a full system scan. Automatic, free updates of virus signature files via the Internet are one click away. And these updates are unlimited. (Norton recently restricted the duration of its free updates to one year from purchase.)

VirusScan 4.0 now protects against malicious Web-site­based ActiveX and Java applets. You can even lock out specific Web sites.

The program also actively scans e-mail attachments and downloaded files for viruses. If you feel bewildered by all these choices, a wizard can lead you step by step through setup of the basic options.

So, who's "it" for now? If you're a Norton AntiVirus user, there's really no compelling reason to switch. But if you're in the market for your first antivirus utility, or you already run an earlier incarnation of McAfee VirusScan, get inoculated with version 4.0.

Product Information
McAfee VirusScan 4.0
PRO:	Much improved interface, effective virus protection.
CON:	Nothing major.
VALUE:	Currently holds a slight edge over Norton AntiVirus.
	http://www.mcafee.com/
	Product information from manufacturer