Sure, it's a cliche ...it's also true.
Every year, some of the best new software applications out there won't cost you a penny. Outlook is the de facto business e-mail standard and it's just plain clunky compared to G-mail.
In the security arena, this month's Consumer Reports again rates two of the best anti-malware apps at 54 (Microsoft) and 65 (Germany's Avira) out of 100. For reference, the top score for any security app is 67 (Symantec).
For the added benefit of a firewall, you can also choose Comodo's free app, just released in April, although CR scores the Comodo suite 30 points lower than the paid competition, and it's not compatible with Avira.
Anti-malware:
- Avira AntiVir Personal 9 (42MB)
- Microsoft Security Essentials (7.2MB)
Security Suite:
- Comodo Internet Security Free 2010 (61MB)
If the spam filter in your e-mail program isn't working well enough for you, CR also points to spamfighter.com as a good free alternative in that area.
Spend the money you save on a few good books.
