How-to Compare Security Softwares

Comparing security software is a difficult proposition. How do you know if a vendor does a good job catching viruses? Every once in a while I’m approached by someone who wants advice on doing some virus testing. What I tell them is "Don't do it!" Please leave it to the professionals. There are a number of really good reasons for this:

1. Third-party testers focus on malware that is relevant (like what is in the wild).

2. Third-party testers can create test environments that mirror the real world.

3. This is something I can’t stress enough: it is dangerous to collect malware.