McAfee VirusScan Home Edition 7.0

Like its arch-rival Norton AntiVirus (NAV) 2003, McAfee VirusScan 7.0 automatically downloads up-to-date virus definitions from the Internet; provides a cogent, lucid interface that's quick to navigate; squashes malicious scripts, worms, viruses, and other digital miscreants; and is reasonably priced at £31 (ex. VAT). Unlike NAV 2003, VirusScan 7.0 has superior technical support and faster scanning times, and it comes with a firewall -- essential for anyone with an always-on DSL or cable Internet connection. Although it's a tad less slick-looking than NAV 2003, VirusScan 7.0 is a fine first-time anti-virus choice for any Windows user.