System Tests

Startup
When I first installed NOD32, my immediate impression was good. I was pleased with the software load-time. On my system, NOD32 was completely loaded in 1:43, while I recorded 1:37 without an antivirus software. The entire NOD32 program occupies about 19,000 K of my system memory – a very low figure for an ‘on-demand’ antivirus software.

Startup

Scan Speed
NOD32 is fast. In order to get a better look at its scan speeds, I decided to give it a run of my C drive.

Test System Hardware:

• Intel Pentium 4 2.8C Northwood


• Asus P4P800 Deluxe


• Corsair Value Select RAM DDR400 512×2


• Seagate Barracuda 80GB – Ultra ATA (ATA100), 8MB Cache, 7200 RPM


• Enlight 360W ATX Power Supply Unit


• Lite-On CD-RW 52/32/52


• Sony DVD-ROM 16X


• ATI Radeon 9800 Pro 128MB AGP 8X

Operating System:

• Microsoft Windows XP Home with Service Pack 2

Of the total 74.5 GB, 53.8GB is used. I de-fragmented my hard drive before prior to the scan.

Scan Configurations

I note that a number of files created scan errors. Among these files include “pagefile.sys.” I didn’t really worry about it – since Windows keeps the file locked, they are very unlikely infected. While the scan was taking place, I checked the “scrolling” option which tells me which files NOD32 is current scanning.

82,178 total files were scanned in 550 seconds (9:10). For a full on-demand scan, that’s not bad. And for the record, NOD32 did not find any infections in my system.

Updates, Licensing, and Final Thoughts

Updates
ESET does a fantastic job in keeping NOD32 up-to-date. Updates are automatically sent to the software once or twice a day. Typically, NOD32 will automatically alert you of a download update on startup though it may update while the system is running. With the evolution and complexity of today’s malware and viri, you need to always have the latest software definitions – NOD32 makes life very easy in that respect.

Definitions Updated on Startup

I wanted to also point out the neat way in which NOD32 implements Scheduled tasks. By default, the software updates are repeatedly checked in one hour intervals on broadband internet access. For dial-up users, NOD32 may check for updates on connection.

Adding a new task was very easy – it was a step-by-step process. I clicked on “Add”. I selected the type of task, then labeled it and set the time interval. Now every time the selected time passes, the task runs. Pretty easy.

License and System Requirements
NOD32 costs $39.00 per user through NOD32.com with possibility of bulk purchase discount. A one-user renewal costs $27.30, again, online. In find that rather inexpensive as compared to its competition. McAfee’s VirusScan costs $39.99 with a $34.95 yearly update. Likewise, Norton AntiVirus is priced at $39.99 with a $29.99 yearly renewal.

NOD32 system requirements

• 300Mhz Pentium/Celeron/AMD Processor


• 128MB RAM


• 30MB Free Disk Space


• Microsoft Windows 9x/ME/2000/2003/XP operating system

What I find particularly surprising is the low level of system requirement. NOD32 on Windows 98 is almost every bit the same as the NOD32 for Windows XP. That shows me that it’s fairly resource independent.

Technical Support
ESET does a great job supporting their product. Outside of the database/FAQ, ESET offers help through the Wilder’s Security Forum and they offer free email support. Their email response time is excellent. When I was renewing my username and password on my desktop, I ran into a problem and so I emailed the folks at ESET. They responded to my message and fixed my problem within one hour’s time. Their support through Wilder’s Security forum is also notable. NOD32 experts and enthusiasts frequently stroll around and answer questions regarding the software. In all, ESET backs their product very well.

Final Thoughts
In all, NOD32 is a “hidden treasure” – a very effective, light-weight program. Here’s a summary of findings:

Pros:

• Very resource-independent


• Effective/ excellent credentials


• E-Mail Technical Support


• Loaded with features

Cons:

• Complex interface

I would give NOD32 a score of 9.5 on a ten point scale. Very versatile software, but the interface was slightly confusing. Not convinced? Head on over to NOD32 and download the 30-day demo. In today’s Internet-connected world, it never hurts to have a good layer of protection.