Today I got my new computer hooked up and running. I was wondering what free anti-virus programs are the best to d-load? I like to have multiple just to try to cover all threats. Thanks.
Microsoft Anti Spyware. Spybot Search and Destroy Adaware I wouldn't run my PC with out them. I also have the older V-Scan on my pc.
yep, they (Microsft) didn't really make it. They just slapped their name on it. But since it's free, and runs really well and cleans it all up. I'm a fan.
AVG free edition is probably the best free antivirus software i've seen. Most of the programs are generally fairly similar but you can set AVG to scan your computer at a specific hour (I usually set mine to around 2AM so it scans while i'm sleeping). Also, it also automatically updates for you so you don't really need to worry about that. Just stay away from McAfee which is fairly crummy and not particularly good. Symantec/Norton is pretty decent but that isn't free for most people. If you need spyware protection, you should run all three of the programs above (Spybot Search and Destroy, Lavasoft Adaware, and Microsoft Antispyware). Its best to run all of them because they each catch different types of spyware that the others may miss.
Are you looking specifically for anti-virus software because half the stuff mentioned in this thread won't do much against viruses. The 2 best freeware ones I can think of : AVG Avast They're average to above-average in terms of "best antivirus software regardless of price", though. I'll disagree with whoever said that McAfee and Norton aren't good. In terms of being able to identify and catch viruses, their scanning engines are among the best. If you don't like bloatware, you probably don't want Norton, but it doesn't bother me - I use it on one of my machines. McAfee consistently does well and scores high on independent/3rd party tests of anti-virus software. Some other ones that aren't free, but are among the best : Kaspersky and Eset. McAfee and Norton don't play well together, but in most other cases, it's a good idea to have multiple AV tools on your system - just only have 1 running in memory. Use the other one just for manual scans.
I like AVG, but if you download the Google Pack (http://pack.google.com), it comes with Norton for free. I've got it on a machine and it's running fine.
What service do get your internet through? Mine comes with McAfee Security Center free... includes Personal Firewall, VirusScan, and Privacy Service. Might want to look into your provider's home page as well. Even my back-up dial -up ISP (ev1.net) has some suggestions on who they would recommend, I think. Also, symantec's web site used to have a free one online.
I've heard mixed reviews about it. The biggest issues seem to be it's slow and hogs up resources. I've also heard it finds a lot of stuff that Adaware and Spybot S&D doesn't. But, it's not an antivirus tool. I may get a copy of it in the future. Right now SpywareBlaster + SpyBot S&D + Adaware + Eset have proven effective. I haven't gotten a virus or any malware infection in forever...
If you're looking for speed, Computer Associates EZ Antivirus can be downloaded for a 1 year free trial. http://www.my-etrust.com/microsoft/ review Read user reviews as well... Use online scanners like PAnda to mop up every month.
Yeah it has found things which Adaware and Microsoft Antivirus couldn't find for me before. What is it really if it's not an antivirus tool?
stop looking at p*rn, dont click on fishy email/aim links and ur chances of being infected will be next to none.
not really, even legit programs screw in adware... that said get AVG for total computer virus protection get AVAST for a quick and nice backup virus scanner. get Spybot for the spyware get ad Aware for the spyware/adware get crapcleaner to remove all the crap on the comp get VLC player for all your media player needs get Real alternative for your real media needs get Irfan view for your picture viewing needs and you should be good to go
