Google adds security to Google Pack

By Steve Ragan Mar 29, 2007, 14:58 GMT

Google released the new version of their popular free software bundle Google Pack this week. There are two rather interesting and highly useful additions included with this release. Symantec’s Norton Security Scan, a freeware virus scanner, which offers virus protection on a basic level, and the added bonus of Spyware and Adware alerts. There is also PC Tools Spyware Doctor: Starter Edition, an exclusive version of the Spyware and Adware removal tool. Like Norton, the protection offered is basic but useful. It will detect and remove many of the most common threats.

Norton Security Scan will help you evaluate your computer’s vulnerability to security risks. This is not meant as a solid replacement for regular, updated virus protection. What it will do however, is evaluate your system and any malicious files found. There is limited protection, but as a quick scanner, it detects and removes viruses, Worms, and Trojans. The Full System Scan performs a deep scan of the system and hard disc to detect existing viruses, Spyware, and other threats. The scan results summary informs you of what has been detected, repaired or needs your attention. Google and Symantec have also ensured that this tool will receive regular updates.

There is a catch however, “In the event that Norton Security Scan is removed from the Google Pack, the Norton Security Scan service may be discontinued at Symantec's discretion at any point in time following six months after the date of such removal,” reads the fine print. Another catch, Norton Security Scan detects but does not remove Spyware or Adware. Considering this is a free offering the limitations are expected and are minor compared to some of the other fee software out there.

To remove the Spyware and Adware the Google Pack gives you Spyware Doctor: Starter Edition. Spyware Doctor is popular, and on online recommended by many for a quick scan and removal. This version is a stripped down free version of the $24.95 model but it still offers quite a bit despite being free. It will detect, remove, and block all types of Spyware and Adware threats. It offers the same type of ‘Smart Updates’ to keep you covered when new versions of Spyware or Adware are located. It also sports File Guard, and OnGuard, both of which are touted as the best feature in the paid version.

While these two offerings are great and will be of use to anyone who would need them, they are still stripped down versions of the paid product. That is not a knock to the software, just a warning these will not replace what will offer the best protection. IF FREE is what you want, here are some suggestions:

AVG (www.grisoft.com) is a solid performer in Anti-Virus tests. This software is free, and the Virus protection offered is the same in both the free and paid versions. They also offer free Spyware protection software.

SpyBot Search and Destroy (www.spybot.info) one of the most used Spyware and Adware removal tools and scanners on the internet.

Ad-Aware SE Personal (www.lavasoftusa.com) is another Spyware and Adware protection tool. This one is also well known, but is often overshadowed by SpyBot. It is still worth a look and as an added layer of protection completely worth the download.