Hazard Shield jumps into the already overcrowded anti-malware application market, as yet another free anti-malware contender. On the other hand, choice is good, and it’s always a plus to have another free and effective security application to choose from.
In testing Hazard Shield on my test systems as a secondary on-demand scanner, this nifty little program impressed me with its performance. This application however, is not restricted to acting only as a secondary scanner.
Orbitech, the developer of Hazard Shield describes this application as “a fast anti-malware program that scans for any and every threat we can get our hands on. These include malicious items such as malware, viruses, spyware, Trojans, backdoors, dialers and much more”.
Hazard Shield’s Real-time malware monitor, which is not a system resource hog as so many others can be, protects your computer by removing threats before they can do damage.
There’s no question that Hazard Shield is fast. In testing, I found it completed scanning approximately 30GB in just a few minutes. It did not find any malware on my machines.
However, I have heard from other Techs who have tested this application, that it has detected and removed a number of infections missed by other anti-malware programs including Norton and Webroot Spy Sweeper.
The simple and straightforward interface is a definite plus, particularly for less experienced users. There’s no learning curve involved here. With a couple of simple clicks you can scan for threats, and remove them from both local and network drives.
Included in the application are a number of integrated tools including a file killer. This tool can be particularly important in removing locked, or in-use files. Additional tools include an uninstall manager, a process manager, and a scheduled task manager.
If you’re looking to strengthen your anti-malware resources, this application is worth taking a look at.
Quick Facts:
Light on resources
Simple, straightforward interface
Scans local, network, and removable drives
Fast multi-threaded scanning engine
Scans for viruses, spyware adware, malware, Trojans, dialers, hijackers, backdoors
Fast, easy database and program updates
Real-time protection
Additional integrated tools
File killer with secure shredder
Alternate data stream (ADS) scanner
Process manager shows full process paths and modules
Hosts file manager with suspicious entry detection
Fully supports Windows XP and Vista
Scores a respectable 4/5 Stars on Softpedia.com
Free for personal and commercial use
Bonus: Free tech support is available from the developer at any time, should you have any problems.
Bonus: Should you have any problems free tech support is available from the developer at any time.
System Requirements: Windows XP, Vista
Additional Requirements: NET framework 2.0
Download at: Download.com