How To Remove Windows Genuine Notification

I recently again came up with the situation that Windows Genuine Notification popped up because Windows Update again installed it via Automatic Updates. It pops up while a user logs in to windows, displays a message near the system tray and keeps on reminding you in between work that the copy of windows is not genuine. It has been reported since its first release that even genuine users are getting this prompt, so Microsoft has them self release instructions for its removal. When I searched on Google about this issue, I landed up on pages which were providing many methods of its removal including those patching up existing files with their cracked versions which I would highly recommend avoiding them as they might contain malicious code and can be used to get you into more trouble.
I found out this method of removal of Windows Genuine Notification :

1. Launch Windows Task Manager.
2. End wgatray.exe process in Task Manager.
3. Restart / Reset Windows XP in Safe Mode.
4. Delete WgaTray.exe from C:\Windows\System32.
5. Delete WgaTray.exe from C:\Windows\System32\dllcache.
6. Launch RegEdit.
7. Browse to the following location: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Winlogon\Notify
8. Delete the folder WgaLogon and all its contents
9. Reboot Windows XP.

But the latest version of the WGN tool is a little tricky to handle. It will pop up again as soon as you end it from the task manager and while it is running in the memory, you can’t delete it too.
Here is how I did it :

• Ignore Step #2 of ending wgatray.exe before restarting to Safe Mode as it serves no purpose.
• At Step #4, wait on the deletion confirmation dialog box and then open task manager to end wgatray.exe
• When you are again prompted for a confirmation for terminating the process, align that confirmation box over the delete confirmation box.
• Press Yes on the Task Manager prompt and then quickly press Yes on the deletion confirmation. (You need to repeat this if you miss it)
• If you did it quickly then you will be able to delete the file.
• Step #5 can be missed. I was able to do it without the Step #5.
• Complete Step 6 to 9 as instructed.

After you have followed all the above instructions, then

• Go to Control Panel > Security Center > Automatic Update Settings.
• Select the third option “Notify me but don’t automatically download or install them“.
• Click Ok.
• Now when Windows Updates icon will appear in the system tray (it will take some time), click on the icon and it will display a list of available updates.
• This time unselect the checkbox of Windows Genuine Advantage Notification Tool, and click on Download.
  
• Select “Don’t notify my about these updates again” so it will ignored every time updates are downloaded.
• From the next time, make sure to check the list of download so that you might not install any new version of this tool.

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Review Of BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2012

Today’s 2012 antivirus review features BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2012. (see my review of BitDefender Total Security 2012 if you would prefer a more robust protection suite)

Key Benefits:

• Scores very well in independent testing
• Autopilot mode will be a great benefit to those who prefer hands off security
• Strong anti-phishing protection

BitDefender have recently reinvented themselves with a new corporate brand and their new ethos extends to their improved security products too. BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2012 is packed full of features, many of which you would usually only expect to see in the more expensive full security suites.
This antivirus program 2012 is highly effective yet, at the same time, requires minimal effort from the user to keep it running and securing their PC.

System Requirements
The minimum system requirements as per the BitDefender website are as follows:

• 800 MHz or faster CPU
• 1 GB or more of RAM
• Windows XP SP3 32-bit / Vista SP2 / Windows 7 SP1

though in my opinion it won’t run too well if you are close to those minimums.

The recommended system requirements would equal the lowest spec machine I would want to install this on:

• 1.66 Ghz Dual Core
• 1.5 GB RAM
• Windows XP SP3 32-bit / Vista SP2 / 7 SP1

Installation and first impression
Installing BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2012 took quite a bit longer than any of the other antivirus programs I’ve looked at this year so far but that is, perhaps, understandable when you consider that it is more feature packed than most of the competition.
Also, a virus scan is run as part of the installation procedure and as soon as the program is ready to run you’ll find that it is fully up to date (see image below) and no further updates need to be downloaded before you can get going.

Features
BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2012 has the usual features that you would expect to find in an antivirus program along with some nice surprises that you would normally only find in a full internet security suite:

• Antivirus
• Autopilot means user input is rarely required
• BitDefender Safego (available seperately) enhances social networking security
• Excellent identity theft protection
• Network map (manage BitDefender installations on other networked PCs in your location)
• Strong privacy protection
• Virtualized browsing
• Vulnerability scanner

Effectiveness
BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2012 scores exceptionally well in independent tests. Check out the likes of AV-Test or AV-Comparitives and others and you will see that it is at, or near, the top of their charts for detecting and neutralising malware.
But this antivirus program is so much more than that as well.
During installation I mentioned that the program will initiate its first scan. If it detects any issues it will try to remove them immediately. If that fails it then reboots your computer in BitDefender Rescue Mode which is much like running a rescue CD only without the hassle of having to burn a disc. Nice touch.
The program is also highly effective when it comes to protecting you from phishing sites and has strong privacy protection, both features usually reserved for full internet security suites.
Plus and minus points
+ Excellent detection of malware
+ Experts aside, the Autopilot feature will delight those who just want an antivirus program that quietly gets on with the job its supposed to do
+ Very strong anti-phishing protection will protect you from suspicious web sites
+ Strong privacy protection
- System requirements are higher than most of the competition if you want to run the program without slowdown but if you can match the required processor speed, RAM, etc then you will be very pleased indeed with this antivirus program

Compare BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2012 with BitDefender Total Security 2012.
US Store PDP. BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2012 – Buy Now from authorised BitDefender Store, from only $39.95! Click Here
Do you want to see what the other vendors are offering this year? If so, read my other 2012 Antivirus reviews, Best Free Antivirus 2012

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Review Of ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5

Continuing with my ongoing series of 2012 antivirus reviews I am, today, looking at ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5.

The Good:

• Clean, simple interface
• Scores well in independent tests
• Low system resource usage

The Bad:

• Rescue CD requires prior installation of Microsoft’s Automated Installation Kit (AIK)
• -
• -

Installation and first impression
ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5 is another best antivirus program 2012 that is very quick to install. After downloading the initial file that is only a few megs in size you will run it and the program proper will be downloaded. This is only 48.9 MB in size and took just about a minute on my connection.

Firing up the program for the first time will present you with the interface as seen in the image below. You will note straight away that ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5 has a very clean and uncluttered interface. I for one appreciate this approach and I know many of you do too.

Surprisingly, the first thing I noticed is that the program was notifying me that my Windows installation was not up to date. After examining that claim further I found that a Windows automatic update had failed a few weeks ago. That means that none of the other antivirus or internet security programs I’ve looked at recently have picked up on that fact. A good start for ESET then.
Features
ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5, despite the minimalist look of the dashboard, contains all the features you would normally expect to find in an antivirus program 2012. These are arranged under main category headings that can be found on the left hand side of the program’s screen.

The Home option is just the main screen seen which gives you a small amount of pertinent information at a glance. The next category is Computer scan which allows you to choose on demand smart or custom scans or the ability to set up a scheduled scan. You can also build your exception list here via the Computer scan setup link.

The next option is the Update link which, as the name suggests, allows you to update the virus signature database. This is also the area in which you can activate the product if or when necessary.

Through Setup you have access to

• Real-time system protection
• HIPS
• Gamer mode
• Web access protection
• Email client protection

By default, gamer mode is disabled and the other four options are enabled. From this screen you can turn each of these options on or off.
You can also Enter advanced setup from here too though it is the same screen you can access through the Computer scan page.

The Tools link opens up far more further options than any of the other options above. These are:

• Log Files
• Protection statistics
• Watch activity
• Running processes
• Scheduler
• Quarantine
• ESET SysInspector
• Submit file for analysis
• ESET SysRescue

You can see a little more on each of these options in the video a little further down the page.

Lastly, we come to Help and Support.
System Requirements
ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5 has the following system requirements -

• i386 (Intel 80386), amd64 (x86-64) processor
• Windows XP / 2000 / Vista / Home Server / 7
• 400 MB or more of free hard drive space
• 100 MB or more of memory

Effectiveness
If you have a look around some of the independent test labs you will see that ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5 fares rather well in terms of detecting and blocking malware. The program performed okay with the tests at AV-Test.org and very well indeed with AV-Comparitives.org.
It also fared well in what I consider to be an important test of my own, namely resource usage. You expect an antivirus program to leave a footprint and maybe even slow your computer a little when running a full scan but you don’t want a program that will render your PC unusable whilst it is in operation. Thankfully, ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5 is very light, using both a small amount of memory and a relatively low amount of CPU time whilst running a scan. Working on other things whilst this program is installed is no problem at all.

+ Plus Points

• Clean, simple interface
• Scores well in independent tests
• Low system resource usage

- Minus Points

• Rescue CD requires prior installation of Microsoft’s Automated Installation Kit (AIK)
• -
• -

Conclusion
There is very little to dislike about ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5. The only negative point I came across whilst using it was to do with the Rescue CD. Why it needs to rely upon the Microsoft AIK being installed I really don’t know – I’m sure there must be a better, seamless solution that that, especially as other security vendors don’t make you jump through such hoops.
But, beyond that, I don’t have a bad word to say. ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5 is an effective program that is easy to use and very light on resource usage. For someone who uses their computer like I do it would be an excellent security solution to have for the next 12 months.
New – ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5 – Save 25%
Read my other reviews of free 2012 antivirus software.
How To Reset Windows 7 To Original Factory Settings

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Review Of Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012

The next antivirus program I’m looking at in my 2012 reviews is Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012. Trend Micro™ Titanium™ Antivirus + provides software protection made easy.
The Good:

• Simple to use
• Very quick installation
• Good detection rates

The Bad:

• High CPU usage during my testing*
• Not as many features as some of its competitors
• Whilst general support is free, premium support will cost you

Installation and first impression
Downloading the installer for Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012 was a quick affair, taking just a couple of minutes.

Once the installation process is started you may feel like making yourself a cup of coffee whilst you wait for it to finish. Tip: don’t make it too hot – this program doesn’t hang around! After just a minute or so the program was off and running.

After a quick check of your computer you will see the main screen for Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012 for the first time:

As you can see in the image above, this antivirus program takes a very minimalistic approach which is something I know many people appreciate. Not everyone is an expert computer user so there is definitely something to be said for keeping things simple and hiding some of the advanced features away from the main screen.
Features
When I’ve looked at Trend Micro products before they have always seemed to be, perhaps, a little low on features when compared to some of the competition. Thats not to say that it is a bad thing as it can make life much easier for the novice user as well as helping the program to run faster.
Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012 continues that trend to a degree, with less features than some other free 2012 antivirus programs. The main ones, the ones an average computer user may actually use, are all there however.

In the picture above you can see the main feature categories on the left hand side.
The first is Virus &Spyware Controls which is all about scanning and scheduling, This is perhaps the section you should take the biggest notice of.

Next up is Internet & Email Controls. The two subsections here simply allow you to tick a few boxes to protect your computer from potentially dangerous sites, malicious scripts and threats in email attachments.

Under Exception Lists you can choose to add files or folders to a list. Any items on this list will then be ignored by scans and other types of monitoring. Considering the fact that I think this program is best used by those who have a lesser knowledge of computers I would suggest that the average user may not want to tinker with this too much.
Under the Websites sub heading you are presented with a list of sites which you can add anything you like to. You can then click on the edit icon and elect to either trust or block each of those web sites as you see fit.

Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012 also has a few features grouped together under Other Settings. These features are System Startup, Proxy Settings, Smart Protection Network, Password and UI Skinning.
System Startup allows you to define when the security drivers are loaded. If you are unsure what this means then leave it at the default setting. Proxy Settings, as the name suggests, are for those who use a proxy server to connect to the internet.  Smart Protection Network allows you to share threat related information with Trend Micro so that they can better protect all of their customers. The Password function allows you to protect the antivirus program itself from any unauthorised changes, something that may be useful if you have overly inquisitive kids! UI Skinning seemed a bit gimmicky to me – it simply allows you to change the appearance of the program.
System Requirements
Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012 has the following system requirements -

• CPU speed varies from a minimum of 350 MHz (XP) to a minimum of 800 MHz (Vista and 7)
• 256 Mb / 512 Mb / 1 GB for XP / Vista / 7 respectively
• 400 MB of free hard drive space
• Internet Explorer 7 or newer / Firefox 3.5 or newer / Chrome 10 or newer

Effectiveness
In the absence of any recent independent test results I used Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012 against my own list of internet nasties. What I found was that the program detected each and every one of them. However, when I delved into the logs I found that not all were marked as removed – some were still merely stating that they were detected – I do wonder if that means they still pose a threat or whether they had in fact been neutralised?
+ Plus Points

• Quick to install
• Easy to use
• Quick to run (for the most part*)
• Low system resource usage (for the most part*)
• High detection rate

- Minus Points

• Whilst running a full scan CPU usage is very high indeed*, often hitting and exceeding 90%.
• A small selection of detected malware apparently not removed
• If you need ‘premium’ support you will have to pay for it

* Multitasking on my laptop was almost impossible during a full scan. However at other times, including when a quick scan was run, this issue did not present itself.

Conclusion
Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012 is a nice little program which I think is especially suited to the novice user. Its slimline approach makes it lean and quick for the most part. A computer that is close to the minimum specs should be ok with the program running in the background or running a quick scan.
When it comes to a full scan this may be a different matter however – my laptop isn’t new but it is a reasonable dual core spec and yet it was rendered almost entirely unusable by a full scan. I don’t think this is a hardware issue as I’ve not encountered anything quite like it with any other security programs, at least not when other aspects of the same program have absolutely flown. Strange indeed and perhaps not an indication of what you may experience. In any event, once one full scan has completed you may not feel the need to run them all that often afterwards if you are a sensible user.

Other than that weird situation that I experienced with the program it worked flawlessly and was very easy to understand and navigate. If you are an experienced computer user you may prefer some of the extra features that the competition may give you but don’t drop Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012 completely from your mind – its a program that your mother or grandmother may well thank you for should you feel the need to give them some essential security protection before they next brave the wonders of the world wide web.
Read my other reviews of 2012 antivirus software , How To Reset Windows 7 To Original Factory Settings

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Review Of Panda Antivirus Pro 2012

The new security products for 2012 are slowly beginning to appear now. Previously I looked at Kaspersky Antivirus 2012. Today I am reviewing Panda Antivirus Pro 2012.
Regular readers may recall that, historically, I have not been a fan of Panda’s free offerings but have been well impressed with their retail products. Lets see if that will change this year…

The Good:

• Runs well on older computers
• Firewall included
• Large range of features

The Bad:

• Panda Safe Browser isn’t the nicest thing I’ve ever used
• Interface: white text on a black background is a personal no-no
• -

Installation and first impression
Installation of Panda Antivirus Pro 2012 is quick and straightforward and, once done, you will be presented with the program for the fist time, as seen in the screen shot below. I’m not a huge fan of white text on black backgrounds because I get headaches when looking at it for long times but I’m sure most people will not have such an issue.

As you can see in the image above, the program makes it clear that you need to run an update sharpish which really is a smart move as I’m sure you can appreciate. Once the update has processed you can start to play around with the program to see what it offers.

Traditionally, an antivirus program is just that – an antivirus program. If you wanted more security features than that then you would buy an internet security suite. Panda Antivirus Pro 2012 may make you think twice about that though…
Features
As I alluded to above, Panda Antivirus Pro 2012 is more than just an antivirus program. It also offers up a firewall, parental control, anti-spam and other features such as the Panda Safe Browser which acts as a sandbox.
Then there is Panda’s USB Vaccine which can disable autorun on any devices that you attach to your computer. This makes it nigh on impossible for malware to spread to your system from USB drives and sticks which is a handy additional feature for sure.
Network management could also prove useful as it will display on the computers on your own network, noting which have Panda products installed on them and whether they are out of date or not. Additionally, a seperate feature through the firewall will identify all computers that have connected to the network by their name, IP address and MAC address. If you see something you don’t like in that list then you can easy blacklist it, thereby preventing it from accessing your PC.
When it comes to scanning there is the full range of usual options that you will see in any antivirus program these days. Panda adds another though with is a scan for vulnerabilities. This particular scan will assess the severity of any vulnerability that it finds and will identify any specific threats that exploit it. You can then click on a button to open up Windows Update to fix the problem but I would hope that you are fully up to date already!
For those of you who may be wondering, Panda Antivirus Pro 2012 does come with something that I think is obligatory these days – the gaming mode!
System Requirements
Panda Antivirus Pro 2012 has the following system requirements -

• Windows operating system Windows XP (32-bit), Vista (32 and 64 bit) and 7 (32 bit and 64 bit)
• A Pentium processor running at 300 Mhz or faster
• 128 MB RAM or 512 MB RAM with TruPrevent (though 1 GB RAM is recommended)
• 265 MB of available hard drive space
• Internet Explorer 6 or higher (if you have IE 6 change it now!) / Firefox 2 or newer / Google Chrome

Effectiveness
Running a scan with the latest offering from Panda was a quick affair – a full scan of my drives took about 20 minutes and a quick scan seemed to take mere seconds. That seems impressive and would seem to suggest that anyone with the low spec required to run the program may well be ok with it.
When testing the program against my list of naughty links it fared well, identifying all as threats and blocking them (I need to use a much bigger list in the future to test these programs with though methinks).
+ Plus Points

• Low spec machine required to run it
• Quick scans
• Effective detection of threats
• Includes firewall, anti-spam, USB vaccine, vulnerability scan and gaming mode
• Collective Intelligence provides quick response to new threats as they are discovered
• Virtual keyboard

- Minus Points

• Panda Safe Browser isn’t the nicest thing I’ve ever used

Conclusion
Overall, I was fairly impressed with Panda Antivirus Pro 2012.
I didn’t like the interface for reasons mentioned above but thats just me. The program will install on a huge range of computers including many older ones. Whilst scanning the resource usage was low and allowed me to get on with other things which is probably one of the most important aspects for me.
Many of the extra features that are included are useful – it is especially nice to find a firewall in a standalone antivirus program – and other addons make this a serious alternative to a full internet security suite. I didn’t like the Safe Browser much at all and would have preferred to see something along the lines of F-Secure’s safe links appended to web searches.
Otherwise, its a good program but perhaps not the one I would choose for myself.
Do you want to try Panda Antivirus Pro 2012 for free for 6 months? Find out how by visiting Panda’s Facebook page.
Read my other reviews of 2012 antivirus software,  10 Best Free Antivirus 2012.

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Review Of Kaspersky Antivirus 2012

Following on from my review of Kaspersky Internet Security 2012 I am today kicking off my 2012 antivirus reviews with another Kaspersky Labs product which is unsurprisingly called Kaspersky Antivirus 2012.

The Good:

• Quick to install
• Quick to run
• Effective detection of threats

The Bad:

• Scanning disabled if your laptop is running off the battery (though this setting can be changed)
• I believe that Kaspersky’s 2012 Internet Security suite offers better value

Installation and first impression
Installation of the files needed to run Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 was just as quick as it was with their internet security program that I looked at last week. Likewise, at the beginning of the installation process the program looked for any conflicting security programs that were already on my system but didn’t find any this time . Once installed I simply activated the product and it was good to go.
The first thing I did was to update the database. This was a download of around 80 MB which came through an awful lot quicker than the 100 MB one I needed for Kasperksy Internet Security 2012 so that was a pleasant surprise.
Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 looks very much like their internet security program, just with less features accessible so, needless to say, I am equally impressed with the layout and the ease with which I could find all the features that this program has to offer.

Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 interface

Features
It goes without saying that an antivirus program is not as feature packed as an internet security package but Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 still contains a good number of features as evidenced by the list below -

• antivirus protection for files, mail, instant messaging and the web
• network port monitoring
• quick response to new threats via the cloud protection
• privacy cleaner
• gaming profile
• virtual keyboard which is a great defense against keyloggers (use for entering online banking details for example)

Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 settings

System Requirements
Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 has the following system requirements -

• Windows XP Service Pack 2 /Vista /7 (both 32 bit and 64 bit)
• a minimum of 480 MB free hard drive space
• an internet connection
• a processor rated at 800Mhz or better for Windows XP / 1Ghz or above for Vista and 7
• 512 MB RAM for Windows XP users / I GB RAM for 32 bit Vista and 7 / 2 GB RAM for 64 bit Vista and 7 users

Additionally, the program will run on the majority of current line netbooks assuming they can match or exceed the following specs -

• Intel Atom processor 1.6 Ghz
• I GB or more RAM
• 160 GB Hard disk
• Windows XP home edition
• 10.1″ + screen size
• an Intel GMA950 video adaptor

Effectiveness
As per the internet security program I looked at last week, I tested Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 against some dodgy links found on malwaredomainlist.com. The program performed admirably, detecting the 20 or so links I tested it against, identifying each of them as a threat.
A small test such as that isn’t going to be conclusive of course but it does seem to indicate that Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 is certainly an effective security program.

Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 quick to update

+ Plus Points
Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 is a great program. It installed quickly and the first update to the database was exceptionally quick too. It is very easy to set up and get to grips with and users of all skill levels should be able to have it configured to their needs in no time. In fact, the default settings will serve the majority of people’s needs so it can (almost) be completely forgotten about once set up.
During testing I tried running other tasks on my laptop to see how it performed. I don’t know about you but I cannot stand security software that renders my computer unusable whilst it is running. This latest antivirus program from Kaspersky doesn’t cause any such issues though. The only time I noticed performance issues was during the initial database update, the rest of the time I was able to multitask without realising the program was running.
In terms of effectiveness this antivirus program does the job based upon the testing I did and that, at the end of the day, is the most important task that you will want the program to perform.
- Minus Points
Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 has one setting in it, much like it’s bigger brother does, which I think should be changed. That is the battery saving option which is set up to disable scheduled scanning if your laptop/netbook is running on battery power – personally I’d prefer a performance hit whilst working than missing an update, especially as the time of the scheduled scan can easily be changed anyway.

Conclusion
Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 is a great program and I really like it. It looks good, works well and has many features that add immensely to it’s usefulness. At around $40 for one years protection for one PC I think it offers great value to anyone looking at a standalone antivirus solution.
Having said that, I would actually recommend that you look at Kaspersky Internet Security 2012 though. If you can stretch to an extra $20 then the additional features found in that program represent a better value in my opinion. Have a read of my review though as you may decide differently depending upon how you use your computer.
Evaluate Kaspersky Lab products for free! You can try out a free 30-day trial version of one of our products right now. Click Here
Read my other reviews of 2012 antivirus software.

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The Best 10 Antivirus Programs 2012

It may only be the middle of 2011 but antivirus programs are a bit like sporty computer games – they all come out 6 months early. Unlike said computer games there are many good choices when it comes to antivirus programs. But which choice is the right one for you?

Well, something I’ve always said, and always will, is that there is no correct answer to that question. We all have different skill levels and use our computers, laptops, netbooks and cell phones in different ways.
With that in mind, I’m going to take a look at what I think will be the top 10 antivirus programs for 2012 and I’ll tell you what I like about them and what I don’t like. After that you’ll have to decide which features work for you and buy accordingly.

2012 Antivirus Reviews

1. Kaspersky Antivirus 2012
My first 2012 antivirus review doesn’t disappoint.
Kaspersky Antivirus 2012 is highly effective and full of features.
Read review

______________________________________________

2. Panda Antivirus Pro 2012
With all the extras this is a serious alternative to a full internet security suite.
Low system requirements mean it will run on older computers.
Read review

______________________________________________

3. Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus Plus 2012
Nice simple easy to use layout.
This could be a good choice for less experienced computer users.
Read review

______________________________________________

4. ESET NOD32 Antivirus 5
Great detection rates and simple to use interface.
A good antivirus program with low system resource usage.
Read review

______________________________________________

5. BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2012
Very high malware detection rate.
Strong privacy and anti-phishing protection.
Read review

______________________________________________

6. Webroot Secure Anywhere Antivirus
Quick scans
Works with other security products
Read review

______________________________________________

6. McAfee Antivirus 2012 – coming soon.

______________________________________________

8. F-Secure Antivirus 2012 – coming soon..

______________________________________________

9. PC Tools Antivirus 2012 - coming soon.

______________________________________________

10. CA Antivirus 2012 - coming soon.

______________________________________________

And if you are looking for more robust protection with a plethora of additional features then my 2012 internet security reviews may be what you are looking for.
Read too:
Best Free Antivirus 2012
How To Reset Windows 7 To Original Factory Settings

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How to Install Windows 8 from Bootable USB Flash Drive without Windows 8 DVD

Back in Windows 7 days we had cover how to install Windows 7 from USB Drive and it turned out quite popular guide amongst early Windows 7 adopters. The main reason of making bootable Windows 7USB drive is either you got laptop & PC machine without DVD drive.
Now that Windows 8 is in development and first Windows 8 build 7850 is already leaked we are back with similar guide for Windows 8. You might argue why not mount Windows 8 ISO and straight way start Windows 8 installer, well it is not possible for Windows XP Users, since direct upgarde to Windows 8 from XP is not supported.

So here is how to install Windows 8 from USB flash Drive or USB Pen drive.
Requirement

1. Windows 8 ISO
2. USB Pen drive (4 GB or above)
3. MBRWiz (Diskpart Utility only command line version is freeware)
4. MagicDisc or similar ISO mounting utility for Windows
5. Antivirus 2012 (Optional)

How to Install Windows 8 from USB Pen / Flash Drive

1. Connect USB flash drive to your PC and format.
2. In order to format go to my computer and under Devices & Removable Storage right click on USB drive and select Format option from content menu.

3. Now open command prompt from Start Menu -> Run -> cmd (or hit Win+r key for shortcut)and type following command

convert j: /fs:ntfs (Where “j” is your USB drive latter)

4. Mount Windows 8 ISO as drive with MagicDisc

5. Now Open Command prompt (Start->Run->type ”cmd”).
Use “dir” command to go to directory where you have extracted MBRWiz command line utility.
Run following commands

Mbrwiz /list (please note the disk number of USB flash drive)
Mbrwiz /disk=X /Active (X is disc number of your USB flash drive)
Exit

6. Now open another command window and type following command

K: (Drive Letter of Windows 8 ISO mounted with magicdisc)
CD boot
bootsect /nt60 Y: /mbr (Y is drive latter of your USB drive )

7. Now copy all the files from Windows 8 ISO drive to USB drive
8. Now reboot your system and press Del key to enter into BIOS screen and select USB drive as your first boot drive
9. If you have followed all of above steps properly then your Windows 8 Installation should start from Your USB drive.
That’s it complete the installation & enjoy Windows 8.

How to Install Windows 8  from USB Drive Video Guide

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