Webroot has recently deployed significant changes in their internet security software. For starters, they changed the name, Webroot Internet Security Essentials to Webroot SecureAnywhere Essentials. Improvements include a re-conceptualized, low-key interface and a cloud-based subscription model. Benefits of cloud-based security include less drain on your system resources, no annoying manual updates and always-current software.

In terms of our experiences with Webroot SecureAnywhere Essentials, we found the new interface to be refreshingly minimalistic and our first scan ran in only 25 seconds. In fact, this is so fast that we ran the same scan twice to verify the time. This software scanned 25,874 files in 25 seconds. SecureAnywhere Essentials includes the protection elements that you would expect in a suite, including antivirus, identity protection, file protection, customized scans, free updates, a firewall, a network connection monitor, website filtering, access control and more. It also includes a few useful extras such as backup tools, 6GB of free online storage, file shredding, track erasers and file synchronizing. Their basic subscription covers three PCs or laptops for one year. Webroot products do not include parental control tools.

This software is uncomplicated and simple to use. However, should you encounter an issue you can contact Webroot toll-free by telephone, email or Twitter. They also offer paid assistance such as remote system diagnoses and repair, installation services and virus removal. Unassisted support includes FAQs, a threat blog and user guides. You can also submit a support ticket for assistance or follow them on Twitter or Facebook.