Ad-Aware Pro 2009 is the latest addition to the family of security products that Lavasoft creates. Ad-Aware has a long history of shielding computers from obscene hackers and programs that could cause irreversible damage to both one’s computer and their very identity or life in the process.
The Pro version of Ad-Aware has some benefits over other versions, but mostly the differences are going to be useful for administrators and the technology-oriented personalities. Things such as a command line interface and special networking scanning tools would be of good use to a business environment, but less likely to be used by the average computer owner.
Unlike some competitors, Ad-Aware Pro 2009 comes with a pop-up blocker. It’s nice to have when browsing Internet websites that believe that the best way to sell a product is to annoy the very Internet users they are trying to convince. Fortunately for you, the pop-up blocker is able to eliminate the majority of such advertisements without blocking legitimate pop-up actions.
The most valuable functionality the software contains is the ability to determine when a computer is trying to connect to yours in a way that is suspicious. In the same method, the software is able to determine which downloads or ActiveX controls are not trusted without question. If you aren’t sure which controls are safe, Ad-Aware offers good documentation on current threats and policies on securing your computer.
While the documentation is most excellent, Ad-Aware Pro 2009 lacks in actual technical support. Responses through online help tickets have been known to be slow, and connecting to a live person via telephone hasn’t always proven to be very satisfying. At the same time, the program is easy to use and has a good interface, so it is likely you won’t have need to contact the support team unless you have compatibility issues to solve.
There are other programs to consider in your purchase decision. You will notice in your comparison that Ad-Aware is of the higher priced programs. It also is more geared towards the technical-savvy in some applications. The extra benefits the program provides the user is worth the price to some, but only if the lack of support isn’t something that isn’t going to bother you. You are able to try it for free among some download mirrors.
Final Thoughts
The price you pay for a security program doesn’t have to be substantial. Some online services allow you to quickly compare prices and features, so that you may quickly compare and contrast products for what you need specifically.
Learn more about Avira AntiVir Personal and Ad-Aware.