Windows Vista security programs fail detection tests
By Jonathan Schlaffer
Security programs from well-known security firms have failed the VB100 (Virus Bulletin) tests for Vista specific security solutions. The latest tests looked at 37 made-for Vista security programs to see which could attain the level of threat detection required for the “VB100″ certification. Out of those tested, 17 managed to fail the test including software from big names like McAfee, Sophos and Trend Micro.
That doesn’t mean the products are complete failures even if the software did fail the test. The VB100 program sets a very high standard for what would be considered passing. Programs that obtain the certification must detect 100 percent of malware on the “WildList” and using default settings produce no false positives.
McAfee, Sophos and Trend Micro faired the best of the programs with a 99.99% of the WildList, other programs scored less. According to TechWorld, Doctor Web scored just above 95%, Security Coverage PC Live managed just short of 85%. Surprisingly, Windows Live OneCare and Forefront Client Security were both able to obtain the VB100 certification. OneCare, seriously, it would still not be my first choice.
Virus Bulliten Chief Tester, John Hawes said,
“It is disappointing to see so many products tripping up over threats that are not even new - computer users should be getting a better service from their AV vendors than this.”
Additionally some programs performed so poorly that the full tests could not be concluded or were too unstable on Vista. Vista malware is still in its infancy but is growing, some would say that Vista is malware in and of itself but that’s a debate for another time.
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April 8th, 2008
This is pretty interesting and far worse news I think than just the standard inconvenience and “non-user-friendliness) that’s been reported by Vista users. Security is a big deal as technology gets more complex and as more vulnerabilities become possible and more sensitive information gets stored on computers and transmitted online. I think security is going to continue to be really important and programs are going to just have to be compatible moving forward. When it comes to security, the standard rules of competition of software companies is going to have to be put aside in favor of keeping information safe.
April 9th, 2008
Ok, So if security is a issue. How do I know my PC is protected. How can I find out with out it costing more money that more then likely no one can a ford.
April 9th, 2008
Amen. I agree with Joshua’s comments completely. However, I am not supprised to see that Windows OneCare passed the test. I have been using it since it’s inception and it just works. Best security program I ever used.
April 11th, 2008
Sure, bash OneCare, but it does a great job. Though, the only reason I have it is because I got in the beta to try it for free. I liked it, so that’s what I’ve been using the last few years. That and it’s one of the few AV/Firewalls that runs natively in a 64-bit OS.
November 10th, 2008
@Joe M, you asked “How do I know my PC is protected.”
The answer is that you know your PC is protected if it is running Linux.