Windows Vista’s bundled
anti-spyware is not up to the job and users should rely on
standalone solutions, according to independent lab
tests.
In a scenario close to Microsoft’s own commissioned positive lab tests
comparing Windows performance with that of Linux, anti-spyware
specialist PC Tools commissioned tests from independent
lab Enex Testlab.
Enex found that Vista’s anti-spyware
Windows Defender didn’t stand up well when
compared with PC Tools’ own dedicated solution
Spyware Doctor.
The lab compared identical threats against a number of leading
anti-spyware products throughout 2006, and Spyware Doctor was ahead
of the bunch.
Matt Tett, senior test engineer for Enex TestLab, said, “We have
taken a look at several anti-spyware vendors over time to determine
the current level of accuracy against spyware threats in 2006.
These results show Vista requires more work to protect users. Third
party security vendors, especially in the area of anti-spyware, are
still essential components in protecting users.”
According to the aggregate Enex test results for the whole of
2006, Microsoft’s Windows Defender quick scan was able to block
only 46.61% of dangerous threats, while its full scan blocked
53.39%.
Tested at the same time and using the same sample-set, PC Tools’
Spyware Doctor quick scan blocked 83.26% of threats, and the full
scan blocked 88.69%, receiving the overall number one ranking for
the year.
For much of 2006, however, Vista was not a commercial product,
and was only available to large firms from November 2006. Windows
Defender in Windows XP was also in beta mode.
Hopefully for users, Microsoft has improved the scanning engine
of Windows Defender. Microsoft has not so far responded to its
small rival’s research.
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