I take the opposite approach: I am NOT a fan of SUITES.
Typically, a suite can be categorized by the cliché “jack of all trades, master of none” (well, more likely, master of ONE). It is rare, if not impossible, to find a suite that’s superb in all its component applications.
I would much rather have the ability to install separate components (AV, AS, firewall) so that i can pick-and-choose the combination of products that i feel works best for me: for example, at present, i am running the following [under windows XP sp3]:
avast! anti-virus (which includes anti-spyware)
resident anti-malware: windows defender (may not be the best, but there are very few quality choices among free products), together with spybot’s teaTimer.
on-demand anti-malware scanners: MalwareBytes anti-Malware, SUPERAntiSpyware
comodo pro 2.4 (yes, i still use 2.4) firewall.
passive protection: spywareBlaster, together with spybot’s immunization
host-file protection: via SpyBot
pseudo protection: WinPatrol
All of the above are compatible, and put little demand on my system resources.
also, separate components give me the option/flexibility of changing any one component, without having to consider how changing a “suite” might impact EVERYTHING in it. (for example, i could always upgrade to comodo firewall 3, or switch entirely to online armor)
in conclusion, i was RELIEVED to read above that "avast has a firewall in development and when ready there will be an all in one option, but the AV will also be available as a stand alone application. "
I would hate to see avast “decline” — as so many other formerly good products have sunk to — by trying to take on the role of a suite… bloating in size… but no longer offering the best of all worlds.
P.S. I realize that other people may have their own opinions/choices of alternative programs that they use, combined, in place of a suite. As prefaced, I chose a combination which seems optimal for me. My point is not to get into a debate about other programs that someone else might consider preferable/better… which is certainly each persons prerogative… just trying to show how things can be combined — and just as easily replaced — rather than resorting to the bulk of a “do-it-all” suite.
