In addition to the free features, the paid version includes Advanced Real-Time Protection, providing detection of potentially damaging actions and behaviors related to the user’s system and documents. With this powerful algorithm previously unknown malware can be stopped even before an antivirus signature has been generated and released.
Also part of the paid version is Advanced Ransomware Protection, which constantly monitors for evidence of behaviors that suggest a ransomware attack. In addition to the capabilities provided in the free version, the Advanced protection will automatically make back-up copies of any encrypted files and replace them after it stops the ransomware attack. The entire process is done transparently and with no user intervention.
Sophos Home Premium also provides advanced privacy protection, blocking unauthorized access to the computer microphone and camera. When access is targeted by a remote source the microphone and camera are immobilized, and the user is notified. The user then has the option to grant permission for viewing and/or listening.
All security settings can be managed online at the Sophos cloud-based Dashboard located at home.sophos.com. From this interface the user can control the security settings of all of their covered devices.
The set-up process requires registration at home.sophos.com to establish an account, which includes a free 30-day trial of the Home Premium version. The software can be installed on the log-in device directly, or an email invitation can be sent to another user. After the software has been downloaded and installed, an automatic scan of the computer commences, generating a report of the scan results and, if necessary, remediation steps. $50 for a one-year license. The free version does not expire.
Contact: Sophos Home, 3945 Freedom Circle, Suite 1100, Santa Clara, CA 95054, 866 866-2802, 781 494-5996; email: nasales@sophos.com.
