In a few days, it will be a month since Christmas has come and past, and that usually means a month since you've opened up those new computers and laptops. While you're enjoying the free trial offers of expensive anti-spyware and virus protection programs, you're probably also aware (or even repeatedly reminded) that they're about to expire. If you don't want to pull out the credit card but don't want to lose the spam and virus protection, it's time to look at a third alternative - free programs.
Yeah, yeah, I know. You get what you pay for, right? Some people may even be so dead-set against free anti-spyware that they simply pay for the more expensive suites just to feel comfortable. Don't be that person. Let's check out a few free programs that actually deliver the goods:
Microsoft often gets a bad rap these days, especially when it comes to software bugs. But what people don't take into account is that most viruses are written for Microsoft or Windows software; of course they're going to get slammed. MS isn't oblivious to this, hence the free Security Essentials [1] program that you can download right now. We love this as a security program because it's simple, gets the job done, and won't expire on you because it's absolutely free. Just one quick tip: make sure that you uninstall the previous spyware program you've been running if you decide to stick with Security Essentials. Keeping your computer free and clear of unwanted programs will help it run smoothly.
avast! [2] is another great alternative - they provide both hardcore, more costly Internet security systems but also offer Antivirus 5.0, a free program. You'll get the usual suspects - anti-spam firewalls, message scanning, and compatibility with your latest Windows system - as well as a few avast!-unique frills like avast! Community IQ. Which is the better choice? It depends on your needs. Give one of them a try or, if you're feeling ambitious, give them both a try and look for the best results. Ideally, a solid security program will run in the background, talk to you as little as possible, and keep your computer clean and fresh. If that's what one of these programs does for you, then it's doing its job. Leave it alone! You don't necessarily need the more expensive security programs unless you're really looking for some serious protection.
Still not sure which program to use? Lifehacker.com has a review and additional resources for both programs:
Let us know in the comments if you have a favorite free option. There are some good ones available and these aren't the only two out there.
Operating System: Windows XP (Service Pack 2 or Service Pack 3); Windows Vista (Gold, Service Pack 1, or Service Pack 2); Windows 7
Links:
[1] http://www.microsoft.com/Security_Essentials/
[2] http://www.avast.com/index
[3] http://www.avast.com/free-antivirus-download
[4] http://lifehacker.com/5452079/avast-free-antivirus-50-adds-behavior-monitor-heuristics-engine-and-improved-performance
[5] http://lifehacker.com/5433229/microsoft-security-essentials-ranks-as-best performing-free-antivirus