BT NetProtect

BT already has fingers and thumbs in all sorts of corners of the internet pie, from broadband to modems, so it was probably only a matter of time before the telecommunications giant decided to offer a security suite. But in a competitive business where free software abounds and trusted giants like Norton and McAfee roam, can BT’s version cut it?

Features
The first thing to note is that BT isn’t offering all-new security programs. The firewall is Internet Security Systems’ RealSecure Desktop Protector (www.iss.net), while the anti-virus side of things is eTrust EZ Antivirus from Computer Associates (www.ca.com). Unlike similarly priced commercial suites this doesn’t offer any bonus features such as anti-spyware, anti-spam or parental control.

Performance
The firewall does a perfectly adequate job of protecting a computer from hackers, while the anti-virus software is certified by ICSA Labs (www.icsalabs.com) and has a good record with independent anti-virus advice website Virus Bulletin (www.virusbtn.com).

Ease of use
The previous history of the Desktop Protector lies in corporate networking, so while it may do a good enough job of keeping hackers at bay, it doesn’t do it in a particularly friendly or informative way, which home users may find disconcerting. The anti-virus software is friendlier, but the two haven’t been integrated and stand apart from one another. What’s more, the firewall doesn’t integrate with Windows XP’s Security Center, which will suggest there’s no firewall running, even when there is.

Value for money
The pricing of this suite is a little different, with a monthly charge of £3.50 instead of the usual 1-year licence offered by most commercial suites. Although this sounds quite cheap it actually works out to £42 for the year – just a few pounds cheaper than McAfee’s suite, which offers more software, an integrated suite and far greater ease of use.