We’re a bit slow on the uptake on this one! But, after my review of ESET Home Security, ESET has gone and given users a slew of improvements at no extra cost.
This update isn’t just a minor tweak; it brings a whole host of new features and improvements designed to tackle the ever-evolving landscape of online threats. Because, let’s be honest, we’re all targets, all the time.
Dark Web monitoring
A personal highlight in the press release was the Dark Web Monitoring. I love the idea of my accounts being proactively searched for, it’s a premium service in other applications, for sure. So seeing it here is fantastic.
To be honest, you get what you pay for. And here it’s evident. I’ve added a couple of email addresses to it in ESET Home (this can’t be controlled by the client on your PC), online. And sure enough, it looks to be actively searching. But when you get alerts it isn’t really what I’d consider useful.
Think of it more like a “haveibeenpwned.com” search with that level of detail. It’s found records in big databases but the specifics of the sites that they’re from aren’t great. I mean, browsers have been doing this for free for a while, too.
It’s a great addition, and a nice to have, but not quite what I’d hoped for. Perhaps that’s on me for having higher expectations, though.
Folder Guard
For those who worry about their precious files falling victim to ransomware or other malicious software, the new ESET Folder Guard offers a reassuring layer of protection. This feature allows you to designate specific folders as “protected,” preventing any unauthorised access or modifications.
This is the kind of upgrade I can get behind. Making it easier for home users to understand file protection. Not reliant on pro-OS and group/network security rules being put in place.
Whilst not something I need personally, the benefits to the average consumer are significant. Especially if you’re sharing your PC with others.
Performance matters
ESET hasn’t forgotten about performance either.
The introduction of Multithread Scanning means that devices with multi-core processors can now enjoy faster scan speeds. By distributing the workload across multiple cores, ESET HOME Security can check your system for threats more efficiently, leaving you with more time to get on with what matters most.
Gamers will appreciate the improved Gamer Mode, which now allows you to create a list of apps that automatically trigger this distraction-free mode. No more annoying pop-ups or performance hiccups while you’re in the middle of an intense gaming session. Plus, a new option lets you display interactive alerts if you prefer to stay informed even while gaming.
I like gamer mode and I’ve had it on for a few days. Even whilst streaming and found no impact to performance at all. Better still, people watching on-stream aren’t going to be able to see security alerts, with them being suppressed.
Other updates
I’ve not engaged with the mobile app yet, and I’ve not tried the password manager, but they have seen new features, too!
A new Link Scanner in ESET Mobile Security provides an extra layer of defence against phishing attacks, even those lurking in unexpected places like gaming apps. This proactive approach to threat detection helps ensure that you can browse and click with confidence, knowing that ESET is checking links before they even reach your browser.
The update also brings improvements to the Password Manager, including the ability to remotely log out from other devices and a security report that highlights any weak or duplicate passwords. This helps users maintain strong password hygiene and reduce their vulnerability to account breaches.
Mac users can now enjoy a more streamlined experience thanks to a new unified Firewall with both basic and advanced settings accessible through the main interface. This makes it easier for users of all levels to customise their security settings without feeling overwhelmed.
Overall thoughts on the ESET Home update?
I was pretty happy with ESET Home, previously and now with this new feature set, it’s hard to argue you’re getting even more for your money.
The Dark Web scanning isn’t as deep as it sounds, but it’s still proactively searching and reporting, which is no bad thing!
Gamer mode and multithread scanning helping you with improved performance is just great! How can you not be pleased with legitimate improvements?!
ESET HOME Security is trying to be a one-stop shop, protecting you locally on your machine, online, on your phone and even your identity and passwords.
It isn’t an enterprise-grade tool, but for the average home user, you’re getting a significant, deep feature set with easy management, for a great price.
It’s weird to enjoy an anti-virus tool, isn’t it? But I do really respect what ESET is trying (and mostly achieving) here.
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