Review by Michael Meredith

This marks my first renewal of Trend Micro Internet Security Pro, and indeed the first time I’ve stayed with the same security suite after one year… ever.

It’s tough sometimes to review a product like this, because if it works well… and Trend Micro Internet Security Pro does… there is little to notice; no worms, no identity theft, no problem. Is Trend Micro 100% responsible for those results? Probably not, as I would like that think that my common sense caution plays some role in my lack of drama. But I’ll give them credit for at least 75% of my success.

Even moderately cautious users will occasionally click on the wrong link, and it’s comforting to see Trend Micro step between you and a suspicious web site from time to time. Note to those that might see this little intervention on a regular basis, you just might want to rethink what you want out of the internet (genuine information and entertainment, or ????).

So, no virus infections within the past year. No Trojan attacks, and everything appears to be safe and secure. This is good!nnBesides the basics, there are two features that I appreciate most, the System Tuner and the Trend Micro Vault. My Vista-running PC has always been slow to boot and vulnerable to lags caused by resident software like security programs. But what good does a security program do for you if it causes everything else to run more slowly? Internet Security Pro 3.0 doesn’t create that problem. And the System Tuner helps you tweak your resident software and file sizes to make that even less a problem.

I’ve had problems with other security programs in the past (Microsoft, Norton and McAfee), but this has been the most trouble-free package for me by far. Installation was simple and quick, registration went off without a hitch and my system performance is clearly better.

And what about the System Vault? Consider it your last-ditch defense. If someone manages to walk off with your notebook, System Vault won’t let them into the files that you least want shared. ‘Nuff said.

With the start of my second year as a Trend Micro client, I am even happier with the product than I was a year ago.