Windows 7 built in anti-virus & spyware programs

richc46 · 07 Jan 2010

skostro said:

whs said:

+1 - MSE is the way to go.

Please explain. I'm not that computer literate.

He is saying he likes MSE. Just like I do.

Miscrosoft Security Essentials MSE

skostro · 07 Jan 2010

rich.......thanks again

richc46 · 07 Jan 2010

As I told you in the other thread, you are not alone.

whs · 07 Jan 2010

skostro said:

whs said:

+1 - MSE is the way to go.

Please explain. I'm not that computer literate.

What I mean is that MSE (Microsoft Security Essentials) is really good. I moved my systems to it despite the fact that I still have a valid Norton IS 3 systems license for the next 2 years. It is light, non-invasive and caught a trojan 30 minutes after installation when I was downloading something from the Broderbund site (which I think is a reputable site). The trojan must have been trailing my download - like the submarines did in WWII.

PS: richc46, thanks for interpreting me - sorry for the shorthand style post which is usually not my style.

Jacee · 07 Jan 2010

Capt.Jack Sparrow said:

skostro said:

Windows 7 built in anti-virus & spyware programs.
Are they worth keeping?
On my XP, Avira worked just fine, along with some spyware programs.
Your thoughts.

Hi , Welcome to SF,

The build-in Firewall you have in Windows 7 is very effective and capable. You might wanna download and install Microsoft Security Essentials Its pretty light weight and very good protection. Then you have UAC which is pretty good defensive feature. You could use Spyware Blaster for added security. If you have these then your secure

Hope this helps,
Captain

Edit: I guess Rich and Derek are quiet fast typers :)

Great advice for adding SpywareBlaster

I wouldn't be without that application!

whs · 07 Jan 2010

I also draw your attention to this easy option: Safe surfing with Sandboxie - very, very easy

Orpheous · 08 Jan 2010

skostro said:

derekimo said:

MSE will disable defender for you.

What if I opt for Avira?

Avira works well with W7 also, I have it running on one of my systems at home and as far as I'm concerned it's on par with MSE's detection rate.
However, if you are referring only to Avira Antivir Personal (free version), then I would suggest MSE as the free version doesn't include spyware/malware protection.
You could use Avira (free) + MalwareBytes/SuperAntiSpyware/SpywareBlaster etc., but the real time scanning in MSE is probably still a better option.
just my 2c :)