Free Antivirus

[Computer0304]

It could be something else. Avast works great for many people and is also another av reccomend on SF.

 

[Golden]

Do NOT use avast guys. I had BSOD (Blue screen of death). I unistalled avast and then i installed MSE (Microsoft Security Essentials) and i fixed my bluescreen. Avast has many problems and do NOT install avast, install AVIRA.

In your case, it was demonstrated to be the cause, but BSOD's can and do occur with all of the anti-malware software, not just Avast. MSE is the only one that has never been seen to cause a BSOD. IF you use Avast and don't get a BSOD, then you should continue to use that.

 

[ICIT2LOL]

My usual response Probably the Best Free Security List in the World I found Comodo (bit fiddly) and Bitdefender not that bad really but as always the best AV system is the one that uses the keyboard.
I use paid Kaspersky ($0.13 a day) plus MBAM, SuperAntiSpyware and ADWCleaner as on calls.

 

[Jonguy30]

I used to use Comodo firewall too, but I got tired of it, and uninstalled it. Nowadays I only use the built-in Windows 7 firewall, I also heard that having only the OS firewall is good enough and that one doesn't need a third party one.

 

[UsernameIssues]

Opinions vary on the need for a 3rd party firewall. The native Windows 7 one can be setup to block/warn about outgoing connections... but some people find it easier to use a 3rd party firewall that does that.

My soapbox on firewalls:
If an app got inside your firewall
...and your antivirus or malware tool did not stop it
...then that app can silently* change the firewall so that it can get out.

*not true for all 3rd party firewalls.

 

[M1GU31]

I would recommend Comodo Internet Security, Decent anti virus, comes with a dns sever if you choose to set it up and a great firewall. Also comes with Hips which you can turn on through the programs options. Has saved me 4 times this year mostly from browsing google images and some other stuff. Great anti virus/firewall progam. Picture to show you were to enable hips if you plan to use this.