Expert: James Filmer - 3/6/2010

Question
I have been covered by McAfee, however, a friend recommended Microsoft Security Essentials, should I stay with McAfee or change?

Answer
Why did your friend recommend Essentials? Were (or are) you having problems with McAfee or something about your system you think is related to McAfee?

Though I'm responding here, it's really more of a homework question.

I'd search for reputable reviews on both products from sites like about.com, softpedia, zdnet.com...

http://www.pcworld.com/article/167246/first_look_microsoft_security_essentials.h...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_Security_Essentials

http://lifehacker.com/5433229/microsoft-security-essentials-ranks-as-best+perfor...

Don't know what McAfee version you have, but if you've been using Total Security, you've been using its Firewall.

While Windows Security Essentials is free, it's anti-virus/anti-spyware, no Firewall.

So, if you remove Total Security (free) and replace it with Security Essentials, you'll need to add the Windows Firewall (free) or get a 3rd party one (Enrgy21.com/support has some of them. See also Firewallguide.com and Claymania.com for more Firewall and anti-virus reviews).

If you've been using the McAfee anti-virus/spyware only, what you do just depends on how you feel about about it on your system (have you had problems?). Reviews on both products reveal  both offer excellent protection.

Also, there's always a learning curve (time and effort) in adding a new security application (or two), and making sure it's working properly.

If the above info is not enough to make a decision, let me know what McAfee version you're using.