Anti virus- Is it worth downloading a free 1?

[terryberry1]

I know there are lots of free anti virus software around, But are they safe? I know nothing about this kind of thing.

 

[BHseagull]

Avira is pretty good. I've used that without getting a virus. Microsoft security essentials is another.

 

[jackcgull]

never had a problem with AVG... although i have moved to MAC recently

 

[Lethargic]

Another vote for avg never had a problem.

 

[Bhafc11]

I used to use AVG which was fine, but i know use Avast, i think its much better and haven't had anything happen to my laptop since getting it.

 

[Art Vs Science]

Another one for AVG you can get a basic(but good) free one or pay for a premium one

 

[catfish]

Same here - AVG works for me.

 

[Triggaaar]

I was on AVG for years, now moved to MSE which is better.

 

[Mutts Nuts]

I know there are lots of free anti virus software around, But are they safe? I know nothing about this kind of thing.

No.....

 

[looney]

Any AV is only as good as their updates. Have had issues with AVG but still use it.

 

[skipper734]

AVG here no p
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Works perfectly For me.


Great, it was all staggered but it's been straightened up.

 

[Shropshire Seagull]

I have several PCs and laptops in the house, one is dedicated to use on "uncertain web surfing" with the theory that if I catch a virus on this, I don't lose anythig import exceot a couple of hours of my time recloning the image.

I use AGV free on all of them. My PC of disrepute often flags up that it has detected a virus and asks me what action to take [remove to virus vault].

Those above who have said "I use x and had no trouble" - are you confident that "x" acutally is detecting a virus and dealing with it?

I can report that AGV updates regulalry [mine are configured for 3am nightly] and it definately works [captures and cleanses viruses].

So that that reason, I recommend AGV.

 

[terryberry1]

Cheers for the replies. My Mcafee subscripton runs out today so think AVG it is

 

[Deleted member 2719]

I know of someone that got a trojan when using AVG. we are currently using Norton 360 i suppose i use it because of it's brand and it sounds like a bike!
However i was told by an IT guy that Norton slows up your pc and Microsoft security essentials is best.

Can you completely remove Norton without anything be left behind to fight with your new anti virus software

Please make any answers idiot proof as i am dumb when it comes to PC's.

 

[Normal Rob]

AVG works fine for me. And i surf a lot of porn sites.

 

[thony]

Compare reviews on sites such as PCPro.
Internet Security Reviews | PC Pro
With free packages such as AVG and Avira getting good reviews, it's difficult to justify spending money on similar software unless it includes additional features that you specifically want.

One word of warning, though - ALWAYS get security software through official channels. Don't download supposed antivirus software from browser popups that say they've detected 500 security threats on your PC - and DEFINITELY don't get them from peer-to-peer networks (I've known someone to do that, and the supposed security software was actually a virus itself!)

 

[brakespear]

Had AVG originally but got a few too many false positives - moved to Avast! for the last two years and had no issues (plus you can make it talk like a pirate )

 

[Pondicherry]

Used to use AVG and it is good but it is resource hungry so have switched to AVAST. Mine talks but not like a pirate - can you really do that??

 

[The Peanut Roaster]

For me the best 4 bits of free stuff that do their job superbly are :

Avast

Zone alarm

Malwarebytes

Spybot.

 

[brakespear]

Used to use AVG and it is good but it is resource hungry so have switched to AVAST. Mine talks but not like a pirate - can you really do that??

Yeah - it was originally started a s part of National Pirate Day or something - I think to start it now you have to click on 'Settings' then 'Language'. Click on 'Install Additional Languages' and 'Pirate Talk' should be listed. Click the box next to it then 'OK'. After it installs you should be able to select it as the language to use from the same screen.