CyberDefender’s antivirus software comes in the CyberDefender Early Detection Center. The main thrust of this security program is the Collaborative Internet Security earlyNETWORK approach. The essence of this approach is that each user PC is a node/watchtower. If one computer is infected with a brand new virus, the malware is sent to CyberDefender, which comes up with a solution and sends it out to everyone. The update speed is further improved with peer-to-peer network updates, and the 3.0 version of earlyNETWORK. While we appreciate the approach, most antivirus solutions now have an included security network feature, and it takes several layers of protection to provide comprehensive security. The software is missing several features that we’ve seen elsewhere, and just isn’t as impressive as the competition.

Scope of Protection:
CyberDefender Early Detection Center is equipped to protect your PC from a number of threats, including viruses, worms, Trojans and spyware.

The anti-phishing earlySCAM monitors websites you visit and blocks scams so you don’t lose your passwords or personal information.

Unfortunately, the capabilities of CyberDefender aren’t as strong as the best antivirus software. CyberDefender leaves some wiggle room for some malware to infiltrate your system, and is noticeably missing protection from rootkits.

Effectiveness:
The strength of the earlyNETWORK system is in the sheer number of users, and CyberDefender has plenty. Each user PC serves as a lookout for everyone else (don’t worry, you don’t have to do anything). And while this distinctive approach is effective, it needs a healthy dose of additional security measures to ensure better protection.

CyberDefender’s antivirus software has been verified by the West Coast Labs for antivirus, antispyware, anti-Trojan and Anti-Malware. Unfortunately, the software hasn’t been tested by AV-Test, AV Comparatives, ICSA labs or the Virus Bulletin.

Ease of Installation:
Installing CyberDefender Early Detection Center follows the traditional installation process. It only took us about one minute to install the program.

While installing the Early Detection Center you have the opportunity to download and install a Bing search engine toolbar.

Ease of Use:
CyberDefender’s antivirus software is pretty easy to use. The main interface is simple, with horizontal tabbed navigation. We had no problems performing scans, removing threats and adjusting settings.

Features:
One great feature from CyberDefender is the integrated earlyMONITOR. This utility not only keeps an eye on your firewall, but keeps you up to date on the most recent security vulnerabilities (and essential patches) from Microsoft.

Another feature worth mentioning is the CyberDefender Link Patrol. The add-on browser toolbar provides an at-a-glance security status for every website you visit. If the banner is green, everything is safe. Orange means the site is pretty risky. Red signifies danger. A blue warning means that the site hasn’t been rated yet. While this tool isn’t as effective as other browser add-ons that help prevent visiting bad sites, it’s a good start.

Updates:
While the automatic signature updates are only scheduled to run on a daily basis, the Early Detection Network ensures that the most essential updates are delivered as soon as possible. The improved delivery system utilizes peer-to-peer (P2P) transfers, improving speed by taking advantage of cloud computing and the number of users.

Help & Support:
The Early Detection Center is pretty simple and shouldn’t require much additional assistance to use, which is good because the software doesn’t include any in-program help. The online help is also pretty lacking. There is a decent FAQs section available, but live assistance over the phone or live chat is limited to customers who have paid for the Live Help Desk.