Security programs from well-known security firms have failed the VB100 (Virus Bulletin) tests for Vista specific security solutions. The latest tests looked at 37 made-for Vista security programs to see which could attain the level of threat detection required for the “VB100″ certification. Out of those tested, 17 managed to fail the test including software from big names like McAfee, Sophos and Trend Micro.

That doesn’t mean the products are complete failures even if the software did fail the test. The VB100 program sets a very high standard for what would be considered passing. Programs that obtain the certification must detect 100 percent of malware on the “WildList” and using default settings produce no false positives.

McAfee, Sophos and Trend Micro faired the best of the programs with a 99.99% of the WildList, other programs scored less. According to TechWorld, Doctor Web scored just above 95%, Security Coverage PC Live managed just short of 85%. Surprisingly, Windows Live OneCare and Forefront Client Security were both able to obtain the VB100 certification. OneCare, seriously, it would still not be my first choice.