Windows 7: Is my security set-up sufficient ?

Hi,

just bought a new PC and I want to try to ensure I have good protection against virus's etc but at the same time I don't want to overload myself and go overboard.

At the moment I have Avast Internet Security(paid), Malwarebytes Antimalware (paid) with real protection enabled and SuperAntiSpyware (free)

Would this seem to be OK or would I need anything else ?

Many Thanks

Andy

You should be fine with that setup mate.... I would point you towards Microsoft security essentials when your license's run out for the above... make sure you have automatic updates enabled and you should be home free..but yes you have a good setup

I would recommend having only one security with real time protection enabled. They can corrupt your system and cause crashes.

Hello Andyonline,

Your setup is sufficient. But I reckon having both SuperAntiSpyware and Malwarebytes with real protection enabled is a little bit overkill for your purposes and could slow down your system's performance..
(Both deal with spyware, Malwarebytes is much broader in that scope...)

Many on these forums swear by the free Microsoft's Security Essentials coupled with the Advanced Firewall in Windows 7 + your own hardware firewall set on the router (Yes, MS actually made something good that's free).

You could perhaps, like sammy3417 suggested switch to it when your Avast's subscription runs out..

Microsoft Security Essentials - Free Antivirus for Windows

Nowadays, most do not need to pay for an antivirus subscription. It just simply isn't needed anymore. I can't think of any oveerwhelming reason why you should switch Avast for MSE when the license runs out. It is your decision completely on whichever you prefer, and I am sure by that time you will have gotten used to Avast.

I think SAS is a bit overkill also, as well as the paid for malwarebytes. IF I were you, I would research how to practice 'safe internet browsing and surfing', while having an antivirus like MSE or Avast handy with the free version of Malwarebytes for a monthly extra scan.

This is just my opinion. At the end of the day, you are the master of your system, and you will be the one deciding the best security for your system based on many other people's advice. We won't be offended if you do not choose our 'answer'

The best way to let you know what my opinion is.
I use MSE, MAM Pro and SAS free.
Another little free goodie I use.
FileHippo.com Update Checker - FileHippo.com
It checks for needed updates in things like Flash, Java and many other programs. Many programs we forget about but are subject to infection.

Perfect - Avast and Malwarebytes work well together and provide a good layered defense : they will not clash with one another. if you are not using a 3rd party firewall, ensure Windows Firewall is tuned ON.

Be sure to install FlashPlayer, and Adobe Reader updates if prompted to do so, and ensure you have the latest Java installed.

Regards,
Golden

I think the biggest tip on IT secuirty is to keep your system well patched... The nastys always get on your system via it being unpached... I can offer one good tip... I have two accounts on all my systems one for Admin (installing updates, software...etc.etc.) And a standard user account for surfing the net.. As most malware requires admin rights on your system.... you deny it that from the start with a standard user account hope this helps

"Hear, hear"

I know it makes perfect sense to not surf using an admin account but since I have been doing this for more than a decade without ever catching an infection then for me personally there has to be something else that causes people to get malware. I agree about keeping the OS up to date and also the security programs.

Just my experience and I stress I do not recommend running as admin.