Adaware and Zone Alarm both offer strong protection from malware, but their additional features set them apart. While their core security is similar—they both use a combination of signature-scanning and behavior-monitoring to block known and unknown malware, for example—they both provide extra tools to keep you safe.
Adaware is a relatively simple security suite that offers basic security at a low price. Their additional features include default port scanning and email protection to keep your safe from phishing attacks. You also get a Safe Sender list to ensure the filter doesn’t affect your regular communications. The software also includes extensive parental controls, including age-based templates that block specific websites and apps.
Comparatively, Zone Alarm includes a lot of extras. The software uses auto-sandboxing technology which launches all threats in a virtual environment to ensure their safety. There’s also an advanced two-way firewall which can prevent hackers from bypassing it. The Wireless Network security will also update your firewall settings depending on the current risk. Zone Alarm scans your computer during the boot stages so it can find threats before your device loads. You also get an anti-phishing Chrome extension, anti-keylogger, and 5GB of online backup space. Finally, the “Find My Laptop” feature can locate your device remotely if it’s lost or stolen.
