ParetoLogic began in 2004 with the premise that computer users should be able to control the maintenance, security and optimization of their own PC. Today over 118 computer professionals, working out of their headquarters in Victoria, B.C., Canada, strive to continually research, develop, and support new technologies that further empower computer users of all abilities. Among their notable awards and distinctions ParetoLogic is a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner that has, for the last six years in a row, nabbed a spot on the Branham300 list of Top Canadian IT companies while also placing 22nd on the 2014 list of the top Canadian Software Companies. 

• High performance reviews
• Low system resource usage

ParetoLogic's products provide basic features that the average customer will find satisfactory. Overall, the company's products garner high performance reviews. Institutions like West Coast Labs, for example, have certified the company as effective protection against common malware such as spyware, viruses, and Trojans. Their heuristic protection and low system resource usage are also major bonuses. While their website and mode of customer service seem a bit outdated, the company does come off as eager to address and assist the concerns of the customer on a case by case basis. This gives ParetoLogic a small business feel that some may find particularly charming.

• No private testing
• Lacking features
• No free trial

While passing most private performance tests, ParetoLogic has not been reviewed by major private testing websites such as AV-Comparitives and AV-Test. As far as anti-virus and anti-malware software programs are concerned, they offer good quality protection over the basics. However, they also lack some of the features that have become standard among other anti-virus software. Features such as firewall functionality, email security, and anti-phishing, for example, are not included in the ParetoLogic XsoftSpy Antivirus Pro without upgrade. Download of the programs direct from the website is relatively easy, but the product must be purchased in order to test out. No free trials are offered on the majority of ParetoLogic products. There is a free scan available that will notify you of any malware detected, however, in order to remove and protect your PC you must register and pay for the added services of removal and protection.

In addition, pricing and general information are not easy to come by with this company. The ParetoLogic company website, for example, offers an 'easy' question and answer search that rarely works. All customer service contact must also be done through email. And while they promise to answer within 24 hours, the lack of ease and efficiency in this mode of communication make it difficult to have questions answered or other problems resolved.

ParetoLogic definitely has some pros and cons that have bemused us. Their products seem like a sturdy 'no frills' option for the less tech savy consumer. All things considered, ParetoLogic would not be a top recommendation as a worthwhile buy based on the lack of overall features, pricing/coverage, and customer service.