Eset Nod 32
- Malware and virus identification and protection
- Easy installation
- Simple user interface
The Bottom Line
ESET NOD32 Antivirus is a very highly rated program that offers basic protection for PCs. ESET offers plenty of software packages to cover Macs and Androids too—though protection for multiple devices can add up quickly. ESET’s software offers solid protection, and it’s easy to use, but the products lack features like a VPN and file shredder that come standard with other brands’ antivirus packages.
ESET is great at what it does: offering basic antivirus security. But if you need more advanced features, you may have to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Highly rated reviews in independent tests
- Good variety of plans
- State-of-the-art malware detection
- No drain on computer speed
Cons
- Potentially expensive prices
- Required manual update
- Missing some standard features
ESET NOD32 Quick Overview
ESET NOD32 Antivirus is the entry-level version of ESET’s security services. It’s ranked among the top antivirus products by independent testing labs. Known for its excellent ability to identify and disable malware without slowing down your computer, ESET NOD32 is a solid choice for Windows users. Additional security options, like password storage and protection for Macs and Androids, are available with upgrades to other ESET packages.
Best for Basic Windows Protection
- Malware and virus protection
- Easy installation
- Simple user interface
If you tend to do most of your computing on mobile devices (Chromebooks, tablets, phones), you’re less likely to need an antivirus program since those always have antivirus and malware protection built into their operating system. However, ESET does have options for added protection there and even has options for parental controls on your children’s devices.
Pricing and Plans
Here’s an overview of a few of ESET’s most popular plans.
| Yearly subscription cost |
| Scan Downloads |
| Anti-Spam Features |
| Secure Password Storage |
| Webcam Protection |
| Mac and Android Compatibility |
|
ESET NOD32
|
ESET Internet Security
|
ESET Smart Security Premium
|
 |
|
|
| $39.99 | $49.99 | $59.99 |
| ✓ Yes |
✓ Yes |
✓ Yes |
| ✓ Yes |
✓ Yes |
✓ Yes |
| X No |
X No |
✓ Yes |
| X No |
X No |
✓ Yes |
| X No |
✓ Yes |
✓ Yes |
| Visit ESET | Visit ESET | Visit ESET |
What We Like
- Compatibility with PC, Mac, and Android
While NOD32 is only for Windows, you can find ESET plans that work for different operating systems. - Easy Installation
To get started with ESET, you literally just have to click “install” on their website. It doesn’t get simpler than that. - No Issues with Computer Speed
The worst thing an antivirus product can do is bog down the processing speed of your computer. Most users report that ESET did not do this, and when we tried it, our computers were not slowed at all by the antivirus scan.
What We Don’t Like
- No 24-Hour Tech Support
Many competitors offer round-the-clock customer service, but ESET reps are available only during standard business hours. - Expensive Cost for Multiple Devices
If you want to use ESET for all your different devices, upgrades can get expensive fast.
Features and Usability
What We Like
- Malware and Anti-Phishing Protection
The protection from ESET NOD32 is good enough that Google uses it to keep Chrome safe. - Straightforward User Interface
With clearly organized prompts and dashboards, ESET does a great job of making it easy for everyone to use the software. - Sleek Design
We really like the look of ESET’s software. It’s not cluttered or overwhelming. - Few Notifications
Constant notifications can get annoying quickly. ESET does a great job of notifying you only when necessary.
What We Don’t Like
- No VPN
VPNs are a big part of keeping your information safe, but ESET doesn’t offer this service. You’ll need to buy another product if you want a private network. - No Automatic Backup
ESET doesn’t automatically back up its software, so you’ll have to dive into the support forums or contact customer service to figure out how to do it yourself. - No File Shredder
ESET doesn’t have a feature that permanently deletes files—something that most antivirus software includes. - No Automatic Database Update
You have to prompt the system to update the database, which can be easy to forget.
FAQs
I have Windows Defender. Do I need more antivirus protection?
Windows Defender is a good start to protect your PC, but it doesn’t cover everything. A product like ESET can provide added protection from malware, phishing, and other online threats.
Does ESET offer gamer mode?
Yes. It automatically detects when an application has gone to full screen and will minimize its intrusions so it won’t interrupt what you’re doing.
I use my tablet or my Chromebook—not a PC. Do I need an antivirus program?
While ESET does offer software for mobile devices, most do not need separate antivirus programs because they are built into the operating system. Users who do choose to install a security program on their mobile devices typically want extra protection beyond the basic manufacturer settings.
Does ESET offer products for small businesses?
Yes. We reviewed home user packages but they do offer business packages for large and small companies.
Who is ESET? Why haven’t I heard of them before?
ESET has been a part of the antivirus and firewall market since 1992. It was founded in Slovakia and is still headquartered in Bratislava but also has offices in the US, Canada, Australia, and other countries. It might be its international focus that kept its profile in the United States a little lower than other antivirus brands.
Related Pages
- Best Identity Theft Protection Services
- Best Anti-Malware and Antivirus Software
- AVG AntiVirus FREE Review
How We Evaluated ESET NOD32 AntiVirus
We evaluated ESET NOD32 Antivirus by testing it out ourselves, talking to cybersecurity experts, and scouring online forums. For more information, see our Methodology.
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