STOPZilla is probably one of the coolest-sounding antivirus (AV) products in the security industry. It immediately prompts conjectures of a powerful, “king of the monsters” type of force fighting against the likes of rogue ware, Trojan horses, adware and spyware. Its origins can be traced back to 2001—a period in Internet history marked with an aggressive browser war and the aftermath of the dotcom crash.
The product initially began as a pop-up blocking tool for the Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 (IE6) web browser. Critics of the day took note of its capability of eradicating milder samples of malware while arguing the need for a more robust solution. IE6 had numerous security issues and arguably spawned the Download.ject spamming virus just three (3) years later. In time, STOPZilla would evolve into a complete security suite, providing full Windows integration at the approval of its many users.
Both the cost and customer support of the STOPZilla antivirus product is pointedly better than its competitors. In just ten (10) or so minutes, it is capable of a running full system scan with precise malware detection. Its most important feature, however, is it’s easy-to-use interface. Its Optimizer add-on component provides powerful clean-up tools which aid in the proper maintenance of any personal computer.
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Evolution: As previously noted, the early STOPZilla product worked only as a pop-up blocker for the Internet Explorer browser. It has since evolved into a complete antivirus package for scanning and removing threats like spyware, adware, rootkits, and more. It has also expanded its base to include the Android operating system for mobile users. Every industry has its name brands and Internet security is no exception. But when it comes to product modernization and evolution, STOPZilla is the poster child of AV products—offering a suite of good tools at affordable prices.
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Variety: Asides its core AntiVirus product, consumers can choose from three (3) others: AntiMalware, Mobile Security and Optimizer. Each of these products are responsible for different tasks but complement one another. It should be noted, however, that the AntiVirus and AntiMalware products are very similar; the latter appears to be a slimmer version that still packs a punch but cuts its retail price in half. Both defend your system from malware and other viruses, but only one (the core AntiVirus) has an active scanner which monitors and intercepts malware and potential threats with a “threat-removal layer.”
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Effectiveness: Each of the products and components are effective in their own right. The core AntiVirus, for example, has removal drive scanning which stops infected files on external drives from infiltrating your system. The AntiMalware product touts its compatibility with other antivirus and security apps you may use. It easily integrates with Windows Security Center, making it an optimal solution for Microsoft users. Both products utilize an extensive database of malware signatures, while the Mobile Security product, made especially for Android smart phones and tablets, instantly alerts users about fraudulent websites and malicious content to keep your personal information safe.
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Usability: Usability is a deciding factor which ultimately determines the fate of most software products. We are happy to report that each of the STOPZilla products score well in this department. Each is easy to install and use because of a really sleek interface. Speed is also a highlight here, as a complete scan can be performed in around ten (10) minutes. Though its core AntiVirus product previously had difficulty in detecting rare and newer viruses, it has been reworked to detect virtually any threat which may harm your device. This, coupled with the STOPZilla Optimizer—a tool which fixes fragmented hard drives and registry issues—greatly reduces error messages and system crashes while improving the performance of any computer.Customer Service: We don’t typically consider customer service to be a product feature, but we’ve made an exception in this case. Atop the above-stated features of the STOPZilla products, users have raved about the quality of customer support the company provides. In particular, support reps have been praised for their level of knowledge and efficiency, and for guiding users through any mishaps or errors that may arise during scanning or installation. This is certainly noteworthy in a world which often lacks credible Tech and customer support.
The STOPZilla family of products have been re-engineered to support both desktop and mobile users. Each offers effective tools which properly integrate with Windows and Android OS. The flagship of these products is undoubtedly the core AntiVirus which also happens to be the most costly. But if you think you don’t need each of its features, the AntiMalware solution might be a good alternative at half the price. Even still, STOPZilla offers a price point which rivals other products. If you are looking or an antivirus with solid scanning and detection capabilities, as well as a supporting customer service team, then this one is for you.
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