The new F-Secure 2016 antivirus program has been updated with many new improvements. It supports Windows 10 and has an online scanner in the form of a clean-up tool, which scans the computer for threats of any kind during installation, so that the software can also be used on an already infected PC. This is made possible by DNS Networking Support, which prevents any blocking that could be triggered by a threat during the scanning process. In addition, information about detected threats is transmitted directly to the entire F-Secure community via the cloud. But does the software live up to the manufacturer's promises? The following test clarifies which strengths and possible weaknesses F-Secure has and whether it can reliably protect the PC against threats of any kind.
F-Secure 2016 anti-virus software under test
Installation
In the installation area the program definitely collects plus points. Compared to other anti-virus programs, there is no need to reboot the PC or laptop after the initial installation. All in all, the installation process is completed in just a few steps. All relevant functions can be accessed via the user interface. One disadvantage, however, is that the help and information texts are kept very short, so that newcomers to this area may have difficulties. But this should be manageable, as installation and operation are largely self-explanatory and users can access an extensive help section via the online portal. This software deliberately dispenses with countless setting options.
Scope of functions
F-Secure includes a system scanner and a real-time scanner that scans the system for threats of all kinds and cleans it of malware. The virus databases are always up-to-date. There is also a DeepGuard, which is responsible for classifying the behavior of all programs. If a program is classified as dangerous, it is immediately blocked. The user is informed about this process via a pop-up window. So F-Secure definitely provides high-quality all-round protection. If you want important additional features such as gamer mode or browser protection, you can also extend the program with additional software from F-Secure for a fee.
Operation
The user interface of this anti-virus program is very attractive and clearly arranged. The user interface is based on the Windows 8.1 operating system, which has great advantages in terms of operation when the software is used on touch-enabled devices. On the start menu the user is directly informed about the current security status and when the last update took place. Then there are further menu items that can be used to directly start a system check or to make or change settings. A so-called gamer mode is not available. This usually ensures that the pop-up notifications are switched off, for example when a game is called up in full-screen mode. Unfortunately, F-Secure users do not have this feature.
System requirements
F-Secure requires at least Windows XP Service Pack 3 or higher and Mac OS x version 10.8 or higher. The hard disk should have at least 800 MB capacity and the RAM should be at least 1 Gigabyte. In terms of processor, an Intel Pentium 4 or equivalent is recommended. To receive updates, an active Internet connection is of course required. The system requirements quickly make it clear that the performance characteristics of the PC or laptop do not need to be very high to use F-Secure to its full extent.
Performance
Another important criterion for anti-virus software is of course always performance, i.e. performance. Here too, F-Secure has nothing to complain about. All services run reliably in the background without affecting system performance or causing any other disruption. A complete system scan takes only 20 minutes, and a direct follow-up scan takes only about 4 minutes. The virus database and software are usually updated every two hours. Here too, the computing power and bandwidth of the system is used very little, so that users should not actually notice the update process. Another advantage is that F-Secure is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS systems. This was not the case with the previous version and is therefore a notable improvement.
Customer Service
F-Secure's website is the best place for users to contact if they have questions or problems with their anti-virus software. The website is very clearly arranged, so that you can find your way around quickly. This is further facilitated by a search mask in which key points can be entered for the respective problem. to find answers faster. Users can thus find help via the user forums, e-mail and telephone support and online chat.
F-Secure 2016 Anti-Virus Software
Advantages:
- Easy installation and operation, thanks to clear menu
- Great resource management and outstanding values in virus defense
- Good price/performance ratio
Cons:
- Unfortunately, additional features in the form of gamer mode or phishing protection are missing
Bottom line:
All in all, F-Secure is a great anti-virus software that offers full security. It protects the system against spyware, viruses and malware without compromising performance. Even so-called zero-day malware is well fended off thanks to sophisticated mechanisms. Unfortunately, the only disadvantage is that important additional features in the form of gamer mode or phishing protection are missing. If you are looking for a simple anti-virus program that provides reliable protection against everyday threats, F-Secure is the best choice, as it does not offer a comprehensive range of additional features.
