VirusScan, FileDefense

Security specialist McAfee has released a new update for VirusScan for Mac, v8.6. Crucial to the latest edition is official support for Mac OS X Leopard, guaranteeing maximum compatibility; also included, however, is improved performance in file caching, using on-access and on-demand techniques. This will cache previously scanned files, sometimes reducing total scanning time from minutes to seconds. ePolicy Orchestrator 4.0 allows VirusScan management via the web, and signature file updates can now be incremental, so that downloads are often in kilobytes rather than megabytes. The program costs a minimum of $37 for a single license.

SubRosaSoft, meanwhile, has released the first edition of FileDefense, a security program which operates at the file access layer. Rather than scan and delete malware, the software blocks any and all file access by unauthorized programs. Its security is said to be so strict that users must temporarily disable it to install new programs; once this is done, users can drag-and-drop icons into the FileDefense window to expand authorization, or simply click "Allow" when a program attempts access. A number of apps are pre-listed in the FileDefense database. The software supports both Tiger and Leopard, and is a $60 download.

by MacNN Staff