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ESET Smart Security 8 review

ESET Smart Security 8 bundles a firewall, anti-spam, anti-spyware, anti-phishing, parental controls, laptop theft protection, and much more, including new Exploit Blocker, Botnet Protection, and Social Media Scanner apps.

Pros

PUP detector: Optional PUP protection can flag or block potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) that may not be security threats but may not be needed and can even degrade PC performance.

Anti-Theft: If your laptop is lost or stolen, you may be able to track or locate it or even contact the finder with ESET's anti-theft technology.

Social Media Scanner: The Social Media Scanner app protects your Facebook and Twitter accounts and posts, including posts you're following. A free online account expands its capabilities.

Training: ESET Cybersecurity Training uses actual cybercrime scenarios to teach users how to recognize and avoid computer security threats. Many other Help and Support options are available, too.

Cons

Trial registration: We had a bit of trouble activating the free trial.

Tough competition: ESET Smart Security 8 goes head-to-head with pricier packages but also faces pressure from less expensive suites and well-equipped freeware.

Bottom Line

ESET Smart Security 8 offers kitchen-sink protection with minimum fuss. Compared to similar security suites, it may be a bargain.

Editors' note: This is a review of the trial version of ESET Smart Security 8 8.0.304.0.

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