Download.com también está disponible en Español Visitar Sitio

UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012

CNET Editors' review

UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 is a free antivirus software solution from AVSoftware. It uses the popular, well-received VIPRE antivirus engine, and offers basic protection from viruses, Trojans, rootkits, malware, adware, and other threats, including e-mail protection and antispyware protection. UnThreat Free is based on a premium tool that includes a firewall and other extra features. The freeware omits those and other bells and whistles, and it doesn't need them. Its chief recommendation is the VIPRE engine, which has tested well against a variety of threats and has generally been available only in premium AV software, until now.

When our download finished, we disabled our existing antivirus software before installing UnThreat. Some freeware AV tools will work alongside the competition, and some won't. As with many other AV tools, UnThreat's installation process requires a reboot. A simple, well-designed user interface more or less says "antivirus software," and the only thing notable is the grayed-out entries for the disabled features: Firewall, RoadWarrior, and Web Guard. We started with the Quick Scan, which turned up two low-risk adware bundlers. Clicking View Details confirmed that the items weren't a threat, but we sent them to their doom by selecting Delete from a drop-down menu and pressing the Clean button. In addition to the Scan field, we could view our Scan History and Active Protection History and access the Quarantine Manager. Of course, no AV solution worth its name would omit a system tray icon, and UnThreat doesn't. The tray icon's menu let us disable UnThreat's active protection, check for updates, and start scans. A tree-based Settings sheet offered a surprising number of options, including scheduling, proxy settings for updates, shell extension scans, and excluded files and folders. The Help file is extensive and detailed.

Free antivirus solutions have gotten so good that the premium tools have to offer tons of extras to justify the cost. The popular free versions tend to be safe choices, and safe recommendations, too, thanks to instantly updated threat lists that millions of users rely on. With no-nonsense controls, essential features, and strong protection, UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 joins their ranks.

Publisher's Description

More Products to Consider

  • Malwarebytes Anti-M...
    Detect and quickly remove malicious threats to your computer.
    Download Or, Learn More About Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Spybot - Search & D...
    Search your hard disk and Registry for threats to your security...
    Download Or, Learn More About Spybot - Search & Destroy

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Avast Free Antiviru...
    Protect your PC against the latest viruses and spyware.
    Download Or, Learn More About Avast Free Antivirus

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • AVG AntiVirus Free ...
    Protect your computer from viruses and malicious programs.
    Download Or, Learn More About AVG AntiVirus Free 2013

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Ad-Aware Free Antiv...
    Protect your personal home computer from malware attacks.
    Download Or, Learn More About Ad-Aware Free Antivirus +

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • SuperAntiSpyware Fr...
    Detect and remove spyware, malware, rootkits, trojans, hijacker...
    Download Or, Learn More About SuperAntiSpyware Free Edition

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Hotspot Shield
    Provide secure, anonymous, and private browsing on Wi-Fi hotspo...
    Download Or, Learn More About Hotspot Shield

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Avira Free Antiviru...
    Detect and eliminate viruses, get free protection for home user...
    Download Or, Learn More About Avira Free Antivirus 2013

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • AVG AntiVirus 2013
    Download and exchange files safely, enjoy games and Web surfing...
    Download Or, Learn More About AVG AntiVirus 2013

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Avast Internet Secu...
    Protect your Windows PC from online threats.
    Download Or, Learn More About Avast Internet Security

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Free Keylogger
    Record and view every keystroke typed on keyboard.
    Download Or, Learn More About Free Keylogger

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Hotspot Shield Elit...
    Secure your connection to public Wi-Fi networks with premium VP...
    Download Or, Learn More About Hotspot Shield Elite

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • AVG Anti-Virus Busi...
    Keep your business safe when e-mailing or going online.
    Download Or, Learn More About AVG Anti-Virus Business Edition

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Kaspersky Anti-Viru...
    Protect your PC against viruses, spyware, Trojans, worms, rootk...
    Download Or, Learn More About Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2013

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Spotflux
    Stay anonymous, change your IP address, and protect your comput...
    Download Or, Learn More About Spotflux

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • PC Tools AntiVirus ...
    Detect and clean thousands of threats.

    This download is served from an external site

    close

    NOTICE: This link will open a connection to a third-party site. CNET cannot ensure the security of software that is hosted on external sites.

    Continue to download

    Sponsored Products

    Download Or, Learn More About PC Tools AntiVirus Free

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Easy-Hide-IP
    Hide your IP address and prevent Internet activity tracking.
    Download Or, Learn More About Easy-Hide-IP

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Anvi Smart Defender
    Protect computer against malicious software, such as virus, tro...
    Download Or, Learn More About Anvi Smart Defender

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Trend Micro Titaniu...
    Stop viruses and spyware automatically before they reach your c...
    Download Or, Learn More About Trend Micro Titanium Internet Security 2013

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • AVG Internet Securi...
    Protect your PC from all kinds of Internet threats.
    Download Or, Learn More About AVG Internet Security 2013

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Spyware Terminator ...
    Protect a computer against spyware, malware and adware.
    Download Or, Learn More About Spyware Terminator 2012

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Trend Micro Titaniu...
    Stop viruses and spyware automatically before they reach your c...
    Download Or, Learn More About Trend Micro Titanium AntiVirus Plus 2013

    Installed

    Smart Install
  • Microsoft Security ...
    Protect your computer with Microsoft's latest security software...

    This download is served from an external site

    close

    NOTICE: This link will open a connection to a third-party site. CNET cannot ensure the security of software that is hosted on external sites.

    Continue to download

    Sponsored Products

    Visit Site Or, Learn More About Microsoft Security Essentials
  • Combofix
    Scan for spyware and remove it from your computer.
    Download Or, Learn More About Combofix

    Installed

    Smart Install
All User Reviews
  • All versions:

    4.2 stars

    out of 58 votes

    • 5 star: 38
    • 4 star: 8
    • 3 star: 3
    • 2 star: 1
    • 1 star: 8
  • Current version:

    3.9 stars

    out of 26 votes

    • 5 star: 16
    • 4 star: 3
    • 3 star: 1
    • 2 star: 0
    • 1 star: 6
  • My rating:

    0 stars

    Write review

Results 1-10 of 26

  • 1.0 stars

    "kd5 is correct."

    March 17, 2013  |   By btljooz

    Version: UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33

    Pros

    Almost too simple to configure and use. But that's were it stops short. ...at least for older equipment. (I can't comment on newer than XP equipment at this time.)

    Cons

    I experienced the same thing on my old XP Compaq Presario> 3200+ AMD Sempron> 1 gig memory> 100 gig hard drive. My problem wasn't as bad as kd5's, but it's bad enough to freeze any program it wants to any time it wants to. A REAL P.I.T.A.!

    Summary

    If you don't have the latest, greatest equipment you definitely do _NOT_ want to waste your time, effort and nerves on this obviously past it's prime (based on it's history) program. Considering it's history, one _may_ want to opt to pass even with newer equipment.

    Reply to this review

    Was this review helpful? (0) (0)

  • 5.0 stars

    "Finally got the update it needed"

    November 7, 2012  |   By Imnotashaman

    Version: UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33

    Pros

    On the official Unthreat website, http://www.unthreat.com/ , it had finally got a major update and bought out by Scandium Security. The new update has been very beneficial, and it still runs with the amazing Vipre Engine and is minimal on system resources.

    Cons

    None that I have noticed.

    Reply to this review

    Was this review helpful? (0) (0)

  • 1.0 stars

    "Corrupted File"

    October 27, 2012  |   By Anodracy

    Version: UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33

    Pros

    Nice description.

    Cons

    Corrupted file..

    Summary

    I literally just downloaded it to my laptop, 10/27/12 @1:50pm and I got that blue window system crash. Now I have to go to a restore point. This happened the last time on my PC and it never booted again. I thought this site was safe. Apparently not.

    Reply to this review

    Was this review helpful? (0) (1)

  • 1.0 stars

    "Quick install, but not running and not updating."

    October 25, 2012  |   By Willemmeister

    Version: UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33

    Pros

    Quick install, only a minute or so.

    Cons

    - Error at the end of the install 'not a valid Win32 app'
    - Seemed to be the try-out version iso the free version.
    - Not updating not even after some restarts.
    - Uninstall very troublesome also (garbage left behind).

    Summary

    I wouldn't recommend this to friends, not even to enemies.

    Reply to this review

    Was this review helpful? (0) (1)

  • 5.0 stars

    "Obtaining The Best Possible Internet Security Solution"

    September 29, 2012  |   By SimmyRemmy

    Version: UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33

    Pros

    Reliable internet security option due to the good firewall which is in place.
    Provides good protection from Trojans and worms which enter through attachments and downloads.
    The antivirus checks each file before you download and gives the green light.
    It took limited time to perform scans.

    Cons

    The software is unable to deal with several malware and adware, despite that fact that it detects them.

    Summary

    Internet security has come along in leaps and bounds over the past decade or so. There are quite a few firms which offer antivirus software options these days and most of them are actually quite decent. Norton, Kaspersky and Avast have been the leaders in the stream for a long time. Personally, I don't like experimenting with internet security and since I use the internet almost everyday, I require heavy duty protection. Recently, I formatted my laptop and decided to change my old antivirus. My friend had been harping about Unthreat 2012 and decided to give it a shot. So far, it seems to be doing a good job and I am happy with the outcome.

    Reply to this review

    Was this review helpful? (1) (0)

  • 5.0 stars

    "Good antivirus and that too absolutely free of cost"

    September 25, 2012  |   By hiltonmadona

    Version: UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33

    Pros

    Impressive detection of harmful content

    The software is easy to download and that too very quick

    It comes free of cost

    The software saves your data from spyware and thus nobody can have access to your personal stuff

    It also checks internet connections for malicious content apart from just website links

    Also saves from Trojans, malware and worms

    Cons

    The scanning however effective, takes lot of time

    Summary

    With no price to pay and easy download, this software provides effective protection against Trojans, malware, spyware, viruses and other things that can harm your computer and the data stored.

    Reply to this review

    Was this review helpful? (1) (1)

  • 5.0 stars

    "Effective in Detecting Virus Threat"

    September 13, 2012  |   By alvinalex29

    Version: UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33

    Pros

    Detecting all malware, adware and other sorts of Trojans and viruses.
    Protecting e-mail from all sorts of virus and threats of other corrected temporary file.
    Downloading and scanning is the quickest.
    No Charge at all for trial packages
    No special downloading procedure

    Cons

    Maintains a fast speed of my system

    Summary

    I hope its updates will come in the market sooner and all its downsides will be recovered and it would be more active than now.

    Reply to this review

    Was this review helpful? (1) (1)

  • 5.0 stars

    "Advanced features and effective security"

    September 7, 2012  |   By jhonrude

    Version: UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33

    Pros

    Protects your computer against viruses, Trojans, malware and worms

    The detection is rate is impressive as it finds out even minor discrepancies

    It actively guards your computer and lets you know whenever a problem occurs

    Keeps the computer and its data safe from spywares

    Easy to download and operate

    Checks even emails and links for malicious content

    Cons

    The scanning takes a lot of time and elimination of malware is not as high as detection

    Summary

    A number of anti-viruses are already present on the internet. But most of them lack in one thing or the other. Also, there is no point in paying for your anti-virus when you can get the same security levels with free ones.

    Reply to this review

    Was this review helpful? (1) (0)

  • 5.0 stars

    "Save your computer from malicious attacks"

    September 6, 2012  |   By walteredric

    Version: UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33

    Pros

    A free antivirus that is easy to download and install

    Saves computer from Trojans, viruses, malware and worms

    It also sends out a notification whenever someone tries to spy on your data

    Absolutely free of cost

    It also checks your mails for the presence of harmful content

    It also checks the malicious urls to prevent them from harming your computer

    Cons

    Slows down the speed of your computer at times

    The detection of malware is impressive but removing these threats is not to that extent but it i9s still good

    Summary

    UnThreat antivirus has everything that make it an excellent antivirus. The best part is that you can have all these benefits and that too without paying anything.

    Reply to this review

    Was this review helpful? (1) (0)

  • 5.0 stars

    "Best Option for Home Users"

    August 23, 2012  |   By letwebhit

    Version: UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33

    Pros

    It prevents malware, adware and Trojans and other virus treats and attacks.
    It saves my e-mail from virus and other threats.
    It's absolutely free.
    Provides complete security.

    Cons

    It's updates are yet to come out.

    Summary

    Despite all facts and figures, I must give it a 4 out of 5 rating. This higher rating is only because of its high protecting detection management issues. I love using this anti=-virus and I am sure when its update would come, it would be better than ever before.

    Reply to this review

    Was this review helpful? (1) (0)

Results 1-10 of 26

Add Your Review

or Log in or create an account to post a review.
You are logged in as . Please submit your review for UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012 4.2.33
Add Your Review

The posting of advertisements, profanity, or personal attacks is prohibited.
Click here to review our site terms of use.

Submit your reply

Submit

The posting of advertisements, profanity, or personal attacks is prohibited.
Click here to review our site terms of use.

cancel

E-mail this review

Submit cancel

Report offensive content

If you believe this comment is offensive or violates the CNET's Site Terms of Use, you can report it below (this will not automatically remove the comment). Once reported, our staff will be notified and the comment will be reviewed.

Select type of offense:

Offensive: Sexually explicit or offensive language
Spam: Advertisements or commercial links
Disruptive posting: Flaming or offending other users
Illegal activities: Promote cracked software, or other illegal content
Submit cancel

Previous Versions:

Error

close

ERROR MESSAGE

If you think this is an error, please contact CNET TechTracker Support for further assistance.

Ok

Running Request

close

loading

Smart Install Software

close

CNET TechTracker will now automatically install software without requiring further action by you. (Note: This feature automatically accepts associated EULAs and third party applications on your behalf.)

You have selected the following software to Smart Install:

CNET TechTracker will attempt to install this software without interrupting you again. If an application requires manual installation, CNET TechTracker will download the installer and prompt you to take further action.

Proceed with Smart Install?

Confirm Standard Install Cancel

Submit a problem report for UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012

close

Please describe the problem you have with this software. This information will be sent to our editors for review.

Problem:

The CNET Installer isn't working as expected

The download link does not work

The software has a newer version

The software contains malware

Other

Description:

Please select a feedback type.

Please enter a description.

Submit Problem Report

Problem Report submitted

close

Thank you for submitting a problem report! The Download team is committed to providing you with accurate software information.

OK

Or, Learn More About UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012

Installed

Smart Install
UnThreat Free AntiVirus 2012