Antivirus Firms, Test Labs To Form Standards Group

[DasFox]

It's about time, some real major corporate backing, testing and data comparison is put out there.

The world of AV security needs to start taking a new approach is all I have to say, because the days of trying it out for yourself and see how it works in my mind for real security just doesn't cut it.

Here's the article:

http://www.securityfocus.com/news/11502

Politics & News ? Security.

AnandTech Moderator
mechBgon

 

[DasFox]

What's up people, one of the BIGGEST things to happen in the Antivirus industry and no word from anyone on this?

I'd like to hear more if anyone knows anything further to share...

THANKS

 

[blackangst1]

I, for one, dont necessarily think this is a great idea. Only because the current big AV companies, although their testing is similar, is also very varied. In other words, one may test what another misses. With strict standards in place, that independance is potentially somewhat stifled. Kind of like the open source community. Although Linux, for example, is based on the same kernal, each distro is very different.

Maybe Im missing something in my analysis, but just what came to mind.

 

[pcslookout]

I don't think its a good idea either because there is so many different variables when testing a anti virus program.

 

[DasFox]

We're talking about building a Standard, certainly a need for a Standard should be put in place.

As it stands right now, you have to take the word of a few independent labs, and the companies themselves. With the software companies this definitely lends itself to propaganda to promote how great they think their product is, and that you should by it.

Right now there are two big testers out there, ICSA and West Coast labs, certainly with their help and all the brain power out there, there must be a way to devise a good working standard.