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Panda Cloud Antivirus 1.1
REVIEW DATE:06.09.10
by Neil J. Rubenking

Antivirus software makers and security analysts alike agree that the number of new viruses and other malicious applications appearing every day is growing exponentially. The traditional signature databases used by antivirus software to identify them all would eventually crowd out all other data on your computer—insanity! To prepare for this signature singularity, Panda Security has spent the last few years mastering behavior-based detection, cloud-based antivirus scanning, and free security software. Panda Cloud Antivirus 1.1 (free, direct) brings all these threads together. This free antivirus has always relied on the cloud for its virus signatures. Its new edition adds behavior-based detection. And for personal, non-commercial use it doesn't cost a penny.

I tested the free version, but there also a new $29.95 Pro Edition that offers all the same on-demand and real-time malware protection, plus additional behavioral analysis of running processes. Pro users also get 24x7 VIP tech support, fully automated program updates, and "vaccination" of USB drives to protect from autorun malware like the infamous Conficker worm.

When Panda Cloud Antivirus 1.0 (Free, ) first appeared last year, its minimalist user interface made quite a stir. Instead of a data-filled status window with buttons galore, it showed just three unlabeled buttons to change settings, launch a scan, or view statistics. The settings window was likewise sparse, just a button to enter Internet proxy settings and a checkbox to enable automatic sharing of malware data with Panda. The Recycle Bin (the program's holding cell for blocked files) resided on the "back" of the main window and appeared when you flipped the window over.

Version 1.1 puts settings on the back and a button for the Recycle Bin on the front, but retains the same smooth, elegant appearance. There are a few more settings now, and the Pro-only settings appear even in the free edition—clicking one of those pops up an invitation to buy. Both editions now include self-protection, so malware can't delete or modify essential files.