Free Anti-Virus and Security Software

Gary Eckstein General Technology 1 , , , , , , ,

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I.T. related security software, in the form of virus, malware, firewall and spyware protection can be expensive. Unfortunately the cost often deters people from keeping their security software up to date.

Fortunately there is some very good security software available which is free to use and update and works very well. Here are three of these great free anti-virus, malware and spyware products. I use both AVG and Microsoft Security Essentials and am very impressed with both. I haven’t used PC Tools software but have heard good reviews (please note that descriptions are from the software vendors):

AVG Free Anti-Virus

It’s always been our philosophy at AVG that everyone has the right to basic computer security at no charge. And our 80 million users think we’re doing a pretty good job. So if you’re planning to spend time online and you regularly exchange files with friends, check us out.

  • Surf, and search with confidence, while LinkScanner® keeps you safe from harmful sites
  • Get online and offline protection from viruses, spyware, and other nasties
  • Enjoy consistently high-speed PC performance with our new enhanced virus scanner
  • Automatic updates keep your protection current
  • Compatible with Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7

Microsoft Security Essentials

Microsoft Security Essentials provides real-time protection for your home PC that guards against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.

Microsoft Security Essentials is a free* download from Microsoft that is simple to install, easy to use, and always kept up to date so you can be assured your PC is protected by the latest technology. It’s easy to tell if your PC is secure — when you’re green, you’re good. It’s that simple.

Microsoft Security Essentials runs quietly and efficiently in the background so that you are free to use your Windows-based PC the way you want—without interruptions or long computer wait times.

PC Tools Spyware Doctor with AntiVirus

With PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition you are protected against the most nefarious cyber-threats attempting to gain access to your PC and personal information. Going online without protection against the latest fast-spreading virus and worms, such as Netsky, Mytob and MyDoom, can result in infections within minutes.

Once infected, the virus will usually attempt to spread itself to your friends, family and associates by accessing your email contacts and networked PCs. The infection may also allow hackers to access files on your PC, use it to launch attacks against other computers and websites or to send mass SPAM email.

That’s why PC Tools AntiVirus Free Edition provides world-leading protection, with rapid database updates, IntelliGuard™ real-time protection and comprehensive system scanning to ensure your system remains safe and virus free. PC Tools products are trusted and used by millions of people everyday to protect their home and business computers against online threats.