Panda updates cloud-based anti-virus tools

Panda Security has updated its cloud-based anti-virus software

Panda Security has refreshed its cloud-based anti-virus tools, promising improved protection with minimal administration.

Cloud Antivirus comes in free and professional versions and, while pitched at consumers, could find a foothold in enterprises, particularly for small and home office workers.

"With today's launch, we've created two options for users, both featuring major enhancements that make safeguarding your PC even easier and more transparent," said Pedro Bustamante, senior research advisor at Panda.

"The Free Edition gives the best basic no-cost protection available on the market, while the new Pro Edition offers more robust automated security capabilities and services at a very affordable price."

Cloud Antivirus has little impact on PC performance by collecting and analysing security data in the cloud, as opposed to locally, the firm said.

Panda claimed that this "accurate malware protection" uses just 15MB of RAM compared to the 60MB required by more traditional software.

The Pro Edition costs roughly £20 and will update in the background, offering "hands-free" protection, automatic vaccination of USBs and hard drives, 24/7 support and dynamic behavioural analysis.

Other features include a stub-installer which is just 300KB in size, improved offline protection, and the automatic disabling of Windows autorun. Panda said that it is compatible with 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems.