ESET is a lightweight antivirus program that provides protection to millions of users in more than 200 countries worldwide.
The software also offers solid security and privacy features that will keep your data safe while you’re shopping online.
This is extremely important because your device is particularly vulnerable to unauthorized third party access during the process of online transactions.
ESET states that its products will not make an impact on your device’s performance and that the software will eliminate even most advanced threats.
Furthermore, ESET is not a newbie on the market. During the last 30 years, it has become one of the leading online security companies in the world.
Products and Features
ESET provides protection for all of your Windows, Mac and Android devices.
Windows products include:
- Internet Security, which provides firewall and multilayered protection.
- NOD32 Antivirus, which is a more basic version of the product.
- Smart Security Premium, which offers multilayered protection and encryption, plus a password manager.
Mac protection includes the following products:
- Cyber Security Pro, which provides online protection, a personal firewall and parental control.
- Cyber Security offers basic malware and phishing protection.
Android products include: Mobile Security and Parental Control.
With ESET’s antivirus program, your router and USB device will be safe as well. Also, with one license you can purchase software for all of your devices.
ESET for Businesses
If you need protection for more than 10 devices, you could try ESET’s business software.
It offers endpoint security, server protection, remote management, threat analysis, data security, two-factor authentication, network security and bundled solutions (both on-premise and cloud-based).
Business packages also offer outstanding customer support, ESET threat intelligence, monitoring and malware hunting.
Your subscription plan can include up to 1,000 seats depending on the size of your business, which is great for small or mid-size offices and even enterprises.
Security and Privacy
Basic NOD version of the software does not offer email scans and browser protection, which is a major flaw. Even a premium package does not include VPN software, which would provide boosted online security and anonymity. File shredder and system optimizer are also not included.
The Internet Security plan will protect your browser during your payment transactions. This protection includes protecting your keyboard strokes that keep your sensitive data safe.
Moreover, ESET will prevent third parties from hacking your camera. In case your device gets stolen, the software will activate the camera, take a picture of the perpetrator and send the computer’s location back to you.
The Internet Security package also offers a password manager and AES 256-bit encryption.
Customer Support
In the Support section of the ESET website, clients can find downloads, tools and utilities, a knowledge base, license information, account information, beta program and a forum.
The knowledge base is divided into two sections: business and home support. There, you can find tutorials and guides on how to start using ESET software, as well as answers to frequently asked questions about online security.
If you want to contact the support desk, you can call or send an email. You can also send a support request through ESET’s website. Live chat support is also available.
Installation
Installing ESET antivirus software is quite simple and straight-forward. All you need to do is go to ESET’s website and find the Download button.
If you want to give the program a test ride before making a final purchase, hit the Start a 30-day Free Trial button.
Select a version of the program you would like to install and hit Free Download.
When the download process starts, the following window will appear. Click Close, and after a couple of seconds, the file will be ready to open.
After you have run the installation wizard, first you will have to select a language. When that is set, click Continue.
The next step would be to agree to the terms and conditions. You can print this page, save it or check the privacy policy.
After you have hit I Accept, you’ll have to choose an activation option. You can use a purchased license key, license manager, purchase a license or, in our case, start a free trial.
To register your license, you will have to enter and confirm your email address. Subscribing to the ESET newsletter is optional.
Once the form is filled, click Activate.
To start the installation, hit Continue.
The wizard allows you to adjust the app’s settings, including enabling the ESET LiveGrid feedback system and detection of potentially unwanted applications. To complete the installation process, click Install.
After a few minutes, the wizard will inform you that the installation is completed. Hit Done and your app will be ready to use.
Additionally, you can add several other features to your subscription, including a password manager, secure data tool, parental control or anti-theft mechanism.
User Interface
ESET antivirus program has a simple and elegant user interface. Features are well-organized and easily accessible.
On the homepage, you can see your latest actions and purchase a license.
On the left side of the window, you can see a menu section. You can start a computer scan, check for updates, see what tools you can use, adjust settings or contact the support desk.
When you first run the app, it will start an automatic scan. You can drag and drop certain files for a check-up, scan the entire computer or start an advanced scan. You can also choose what you want the app to do after the scan is completed (shut down, reboot, hibernate or no action).
In the Update section, you can see the latest update or other changes related to the app.
Within Tools, you can find password manager, secure data, connected home monitor, banking and payment protection, and anti-theft tools.
In the Setup section, clients can activate computer protection, internet protection and network protection features. They can also see more security tools.
The last section in the menu allows you to access ESET’s knowledge base, open help, submit a ticket to the support desk, find additional information about potential threats, and upgrade your subscription plan.
Performance
If you subscribe to the premium plan, the software will almost have no impact on your device’s CPU. Even if your computer is loaded with files, it will take less than an hour for a complete scan.
All things considered, ESET’s antivirus program is definitely one of the fastest on the market.
Price
The price of the service varies depending on the plan you would like to purchase (one year, two-year or three-year), or the number of devices you’ll use.
If you want to purchase the software for Windows, you will have to pay between $49.99 to $109.98 for ESET Internet Security, from $39.99 to $79.98 for NOD32 Antivirus, and between $59.99 and $139.98 for the Premium package.
For Mac devices, Cyber Security Pro will cost you between $49.99 and $109.98, or $39.99 and $79.98 for ESET Cyber Security.
ESET’s Mobile Security plan costs up to $29.98 and the Parental Control plan is priced at $59.98.
Fortunately, before you make a final decision, you will be able to use the service for free for one month.
Users’ Reviews
ESET users are mostly satisfied with the service, especially with its speed and low impact on the device’s CPU. The software is definitely one of the fastest ones on the market. However, URL blocking can be improved and the app can be a little bit too complicated for some users.
Another good factor is that business plans are also available. So, if you have a small, mid-size or even a large business, ESET might work for you perfectly. You can use it with up to 1,000 devices and it’s loaded with many useful security features as well.
Also, the cost of the premium package is not cheap, which can be a deal-breaker if you’re an amateur user.
Alternatives
If for some reason you’re not satisfied with ESET antivirus software or you find it too expensive, you can consider some of the following alternatives.
- Avast
- Norton
- Kaspersky
- Avira Antivirus
- AVG Antivirus
Today, when internet security should not be a matter of choice, there are dozens of different anti-malware programs on the market. Some of them offer a free trial and even VPN service. However, if the free trial is not available, the only thing you can do is to read as many reviews as possible so you can make an informed decision before the final purchase.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight software | The software is not cheap |
| Easy to install | No live chat |
| Numerous subscription plans | Might be too complicated for someusers |
| Several security features | Issues with URL blocking |
| Compatible with Windows, Mac and Android | |
| Offers subscription plans for business owners | |
| Low impact on the device’s CPU |
Conclusion
ESET is among the most renowned internet security companies in the world. It offers one of the fastest and most reliable antivirus software programs, along with many other features including parental control, top-notch encryption, a password manager, an anti-theft mechanism and camera protection.
The ESET antivirus program is also fully equipped to protect your personal data during online payments and banking.Even though the subscription plan is not cheap, the company provides a one-month free trial. This is great news for clients who are trying to decide whether or not they should commit to one provider for a longer period of time.
