There are many options for protecting our computers, and it is very hard to convince users to abandon one security solution in favor of another. But beyond personal preferences, this is a market that refuses to sit still, and something new always appears worth a closer look. This time, the folks at IObit have released the first beta of what will be the next IObit Malware Fighter 5. The software includes several protection parameters, with a standout anti-ransomware module and a webcam blocker.
What We Look for in Security Software
The first thing we ask of a security program is that it catches everything that could affect our computer without generating too many false positives (while we prefer a bit of paranoia, the truth is it shouldn't overdo it). The second is that it stays out of the way, working in the background without pop-ups or too many windows. Finally, it should be respectful of system resources. Some companies have ignored that aspect for a long time and paid a high price. My three main systems each have a different protection. The desktop uses Windows Defender, and the two laptops are split between Bitdefender Free and Avast. Personally, I feel very comfortable with those programs, but I am always willing to explore other alternatives. One of the most recent is IObit Malware Fighter 5, which just entered public beta.
Features and Interface
The first time we saw Malware Fighter was in 2011, and I must admit things have changed a lot since then. Users will now find a completely updated interface with elements inspired by Windows 8.x and Windows 10, but all functions are very easy to use. IObit Malware Fighter 5 beta protects the computer against ransomware, files, downloads, and malicious processes. It also offers a module that prevents unauthorized use of the webcam, and another that stands guard against USB devices. According to the official page, IObit Malware Fighter 5 includes Bitdefender's detection engine, a good name that has taken care of our PCs for years.
Beta Limitations and Final Thoughts
Being a beta, IObit Malware Fighter 5 carries more than one sharp edge. The first negative point to mention is the slowness with which its database updates, while the second falls directly on performance. I am convinced that the program can receive optimizations on both fronts, thus becoming a much more competitive option. As always happens with all betas, I recommend that you do not test IObit Malware Fighter 5 on your main computer. It's not ready.
