Best FREE Virus Protection?

[freedom01]

I'm looking to add additional (Free) virus protection to my PC and my wife's. Although she has MS Essentials and I have Windows Defender I read where this wasn't enough so I am looking for something stronger. I did install Avast about a month ago into our computers, but I wasn't sure if there was something new and more secure? I did try adding AVG to my computer, but all kinds of things went wrong...could not connect to web, screen went white and could not view anything so I removed it right away and had to perform a System Restore to get my computer back. My wife has Widows Vista and I have Windows 8.1.

I was looking at a couple protections I never heard of and was wondering if they be familiar to anyone and whether they are worth trying. They are Panda and Avira Antivirus.

Thank you,

Tom

[nigsy]

There must be a thousand threads on this....

 

It really is each to their own.

 

I put MSE on all windows PCs I build.

 

If you just use the internet and don't go to dodgy gambling / Pornography / cheap pills or use torrent sites MSE and a weekly scan with malwarebytes should be more than adequate.

[freedom01]

Good to know...thank you very much.

[Juliet]

Malwarebytes has a tool out called Malwarebytes Anti Exploit. I suggest Windows XP user's and Vista, download and give the tool a try. Since Microsoft discontinued security updates.

 

Please read over the information provided in Frequently Asked Questions. If help is needed please visit Malwarebytes Anti-Exploit Help Forum.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Malwarebytes Anti-Exploit Help Forum

Download it from here

Or from Here

 

~~~~~

The following programs come highly recommended in the security community.

• AdBlock is a browser add-on that blocks annoying banners, pop-ups and video ads.
• CryptoPrevent places policy restrictions on loading points for ransomware (eg.CryptoPrevent), preventing your files from being encrypted.
• Malwarebytes Anti-Exploit (MBAE) is designed to prevent zero-day malware from exploiting vulnerable software.
• Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Premium (MBAM) works in real-time along side your Anti-Virus to prevent malware execution.
• NoScript is a Firefox add-on that blocks the actions of malicious scripts by using whitelisting and other technology.
• Sandboxie isolates programmes of your choice, preventing files from being written to your HDD unless approved by you.
• Secuina PSI will scan your computer for vulnerable software that is outdated, and automatically find the latest update for you.
• SpywareBlaster is a form of passive protection, designed to block the actions of malicious websites and tracking cookies.
• Web of Trust (WOT) is a browser add-on designed to alert you before interacting with a potentially malicious website.

   

  Want to help others? Join the ClassRoom and learn how.

Edited May 6, 2015 by Juliet

[Tomk_]

I've never tried Panda but they have a good name. I used to like Avira, it's still a good product, but it has gotten a bit bloated over the years and I think AVAST! is better.

 

Personally, I like MSE (Defender on windows 8/8.1) ran with Malwarebytes'. Adding an additional layer or two from the information provided above by Juliet is a good idea... especially if you think you might not be adequately protected.

[KurtBleach]

So AVG is no longer recommended? I think that's what my parents are using. Sorry to say it, but a Linux distro comes with way less baggage.

[Adam35]

I am on my way to building a new PC. I found Norton, Kaspersky, F-Secure and AVG available at Xmen. Which is the best antivirus among these?

[nigsy]

If you are building a windows PC stick with Microsoft Security Essentials and / or Defender; install ad-block plus and no-script add-ons for your browser; download malwarebytes free version and scan once a month.

Don't waste money on Norton et al.

[Tomk_]

I agree with nigsy, but if I were to answer the specific question you asked... if you really want to buy a anti-virus solution, I'd go with Kaspersky out of the ones listed.

[Y kawika]

I agree with nigsy, but if I were to answer the specific question you asked... if you really want to buy a anti-virus solution, I'd go with Kaspersky out of the ones listed.

 

Really? The Russians? I have a tough time trusting them, but maybe that's just me.

 

Y

[oftentired]

I am on my way to building a new PC. I found Norton, Kaspersky, F-Secure and AVG available at Xmen. Which is the best antivirus among these?

 

 

I agree with nigsy, but if I were to answer the specific question you asked... if you really want to buy a anti-virus solution, I'd go with Kaspersky out of the ones listed.

 

I have to agree Kaspersky out of the choices you listed. If you go off the list I suggest Panda and Malewarebytes.

[caintry_boy]

I use our own PCMatic with Supershield > http://pcpitstop.com/store/pcmatic.asp to keep my PC cleaned up and safe. Other than that here's my other "paid" antivirus of choice...> http://www.eset.com/us/products/nod32-antivirus/