Webroot Secure Anywhere Antivirus is compact antispyware software application that packs a punch in a small install. The application doesn’t have the best performance scores for spyware removal, but it maintains a small system footprint and won’t interfere with normal computer activity.
This antispyware software performs above average in terms of protection, especially on Windows XP machines. Webroot scored 5.5 out of 6.0, or a 92%, for detection of malware on the AV-Test. As is the case with most of the antispyware tools we reviewed, its removal scores weren’t quite as good. The software scored a 3.5 (58%) on Windows 7 and a 4.0 (67%) on Windows XP. These numbers are evidence that while Webroot can effectively remove some malware, it won’t be able to remove all infections on your PC.
Webroot excels at being light yet efficient. The software is lightening fast and performs comprehensive scans without impeding computer use. You can perform either full system scans or create custom scans that sweep specific drives or folder of your choosing. While your initial scan may take some time, subsequent scans should only take only a few minutes. We should also note that the anti-spyware software is designed to not conflict with any other security applications you might have installed on your computer.
Spyware is just one of the many types of damaging malware that Webroot works to detect and eradicate on a PC. The software also protects your PC against viruses, trojans, browser hijacks and rootkits. Beyond antispyware protection, however, you won’t find much on Webroot. The spyware remover doesn’t have any of the features found on our top-ranked antispyware software. It doesn’t scan additional points of entry, such as incoming email or removable storage. There’s also no gaming mode, though the software runs so light, you aren’t likely to miss the feature.
We are also disappointed with Webroot’s help and support options – or lack thereof. The only way to receive support for technical issues is to submit a ticket online. Top security software vendors also provide support by telephone and often live chat, options we’d like to see with this antispyware tool as well.
While Webroot Secure Anywhere Antivirus won’t hog system resources, the antispyware software doesn’t deliver much beyond its small footprint. Its Windows 7 performance isn’t up to par to more well-known antispyware tools, so we’d recommend using Webroot if you need to secure a Windows XP system.
