Solved What is the best FREE antivirus

[UD98]

stuff i really need for anti virus

• Not too annoying
• Automatic scanning
• On the fly protection (like when you download a virus by accident it stops you)
• and auto update
• IT NEEDS TO BE FREE
• it needs to protect against everything

 

[pparks1]

[*]it needs to protect against everything
[/LIST]

That's the one that is going to cause you some grief. I'm not even aware of a paid product that protects against everything.

With that said, MSE, Avast and Avira all tend to be pretty solid.

 

[Corrine]

I agree with pparks1. There is no software that will protect against everything.

You need layers of protection. Add in an anti-malware software such as Malwarebytes or SuperAntispyware. Then include the additional protection of SpywareBlaster, a software firewall and a router. Keep your system updated, including third-party programs such as Java and Adobe products. Lastly, avoid dodgy sites and P2P programs.

 

[UD98]

I finally chose mse

 

[JMH]

UD98
Well done with your choice of MSE...

As Corrine stated you need layered protection -
For example
* MSE {is popular & is used by many people here]
* Malwarebytes or SuperAntiSpyware
* SpywareBlaster
* Firewall. The Win 7 inbuilt one is considered adequate.
* Router / firewall

It is important you update programs & scan regularly.

The next MOST important Security program is YOU!
You are in control of the mouse...The responsibility is all yours.
Exercise that responsibility - Resist temptation!

 

[williamgrout]

I think Avira Anti Virus is best.

 

[jimbo45]

Hi there
asking a question like this is like saying "What's the best Car" -- everybody has favorites.

I'd say why not stick to a simple free one that is part of the OS -- MSE.

That and intelligent surfing -- you don't really need anything else .

I've used computers for absolutely DONKEYS YEARS and never had ANY trouble with viruses -- I only actually ever even BOTHERED with security since using W7 !! -- I never bothered at all on XP.

These days it's true people are more sophisticated in hacking computers -- but the REAL imformation they want are things like Bank Pin numbers, commercial patents and the like.

Most of this data is obtained by duping people into VOLUNTARILY supplying sensitive information to what they think are legitimate sites -- but IMO if I were banking with an online Bank that said we need to verify your password or whatever -- I'd change Banks at a shot and report the email to whatever Financial regulation you have in your country / state.

I wouldn't say DO NOT install AV software on your machine -- I wouldn't get paranoid about which one either.

They are all as good (or as bad depending on your viewpoint) as each other so just choose the one that uses the least resources -- and I'd JUNK Norton -- this piece of crapware seems to be pre-installed on every store bought computer I've ever seen in the last year or so !!.

In addition surf SENSIBLY, split your partition(s) up to OS and DATA so the OS is on its own partition and TAKE REGULAR BACKUPS OF THE OS. (Data you can do at your leisure but take an OS backup at least once a week -- only takes around 15 mins these days with decent software).

Cheers
jimbo