Windows 7: How do you choose the best Anti-Virus software?

I am currently using ESET NOD32 version 5 anti-virus on my 3 desktop and 1 laptop machine, all running Windows 7 Professional 64 bit. My subscription will expire in a couple of months and I have doing research on the web trying to determine which is the best anti-virus software available.

Many years ago I used Norton but it literally took over my machines and un-installing it was almost impossible. Then I used BitDefender for a few years and then I read that it was really heavy on system resources and I thought it was slowing my machines down. I have been using ESET NOD32 for the last 2 years. When ever I read reviews, etc. ESET is always at the bottom of the list although the ESET website says it is the best in independent lab tests.

Last week I downloaded the 30 day trial of Webroot SecureAnywhere anti-virus and I am trying it for 30 days.



Can anyone give me some thoughts on how to choose a good anti-virus program or recommendations? I am currently using the free versions of SuperAnti-Spyware and Malbytes Anti-Malware to keep my machines free of spyware and malware.

Thanks very much!

ESET is excellent - so is todays Norton (NIS2012). Webroot SecureAnywhere I have never heard about. SuperAnti-Spyware and Malbytes Anti-Malware are scanners that you can run from time to time. But they are no real time protection.

Thanks for your reply and information!

I have used Norton for over 10 years. I downloaded Webroot SecureAnywhere Essentials 30 day trial and love it. Bought a year license (discounted price).

If you are looking for a free Anti-Virus Program then try out Avast. There is nothing to beat it. The other two very good free Anti-Virus Programs are AVG and Avira.

All three free programs can also be upgraded by purchasing the premium versions.

Thanks everyone for your information. Is a free program such as Avast as dependable as a paid program?

Yes, it can be, and sometimes more so depending on which software you choose to use.

Regards,
Golden

I have used Kaspersky and found it a bit complicated for the settings.

MSE (Microsoft Security Essentials) is on a couple of my systems, but it is not without fault.

Free AVG we have used at our computer club and it was a disaster.

ESET was recommended by Corrine and she is one of the world leading AV experts. Visit her Security garden.

On my production systems I use Norton Internet Security and it has never failed in the last 4 years.

Personally, I would KasperskyPure or Microsoft Security Essentials with Malwarebytes and SuperANTISpyware.