Viruses, spyware, adware, Trojans, keyloggers, hackers... It's apparent now more than ever that those who log onto the Web need to protect themselves from the threats that inhabit it.

Yesterday's leading anti-virus providers are becoming today's foremost suppliers of Internet security software. By combining anti-virus, anti-spyware and anti-adware utilities along with integrated firewalls, malware detection and email safeguards, Internet security software eliminates the need to run a half a dozen different programs for total PC protection.

Because the Internet isn't getting any friendlier where viruses and malware are concerned, 6StarReviews decided to test out a number of different Internet security software tools. Which one is the right one for you? Find out by reading our summary and our reviews:

User Interface

A good interface will provide you with easy-access to the different program functions, such as user setup and one-click scanning.

• 1st Place:

  For the best user interface, we selected Security Shield 2008 due to its user-friendly Wizard and pain-free setup.

• 2nd place:

  In second place, we have TrendMicro. Not only was TrendMicro easy to install and set-up, the control panel made it extremely easy to use.

Product Application

A program's product application may very well be one of the most essential elements when reviewing Internet security tools. Our two top choices in this category are:

• 1st Place:

  Security Shield came in first place due to the fact that it was extremely easy to use and when the program was running and scanning our hard drive, it took up barely any of our hard system resources.

• 2nd Place:

  For second place, we chose TrendMicro due to the fact that it is easy enough for a novice to use, yet it provides advanced protection.

Features Selection

While the basic features of the various Internet security software offerings are all somewhat similar, some Internet security tools do have features that set them apart from the rest.

• 1st place:

  BitDefender comes in first place due to its hourly updates (rather than daily) and its comprehensive protection from all types of malware.

• 2nd place:

  CA Internet Security takes second place due to their damage protection guarantee not to mention all the features they offer!

Software Pricing

Internet security tools come in a wide range of prices. However, you can't base a decision on price alone. These two may not be the cheapest, but they do offer the most bang for the buck.

• 1st place:

  Security Shield 2007 came in at number one. Not only is it cost competitive, but they also offer a monthly subscription option for those who can't come up with the purchase price all at once.

• 2nd place:

  CA came in at number two. For $49.99 you can have coverage on up to 3PCs!

Customer Support

Customer service is critical when it comes to Internet security software tools. These two companies did the best when it came to customer service and support.

• 1st place:

  SecurityShield comes in at number one because not only do they offer customer support via email, but they also offer live phone and chat options as well.

• 2nd place:

  F-Secure came in second for customer support due to the fact that phone support is available and calls are answered in a timely manner by knowledgeable representatives.

In Closing

Internet security software is an important purchase decision. Read through all of these reviews thoroughly before deciding which ones serve your needs best. Each has its own strengths (and some their own weaknesses). The following reviews will help you find the one that's right for you.