Computer Security & Viruses/wishiwasatdisney@yahoo.com

Advertisement

Expert: - 5/25/2010


Question
Hello,
Is there a safe,free virus protection out there?
I know very little about computers but I am pretty sure we need some kind of protection. Simple I hope.
Thank you.
Teri

Answer
Hi Teri


Here are a few free Anti-virus programs for you to check out (listed in recommended order):

  * Avira Anti-vir
http://www.free-av.com/
  * Avast Free
http://www.avast.com/eng/download-avast-home.html
  * AVG Free
http://free.grisoft.com/doc/avg-anti-virus-free/lng/us/tpl/v5
  * Bitdefender Free
http://www.bitdefender.com/PRODUCT-14-en--BitDefender-8-Free-Edition.html
  * ClamWin
http://www.clamwin.com/

I like Avira the best because it catches and contains everything I have thrown at it, and has a set-it-and-forget-it interface...very simple.  The only drawback is a daily splash screen after the program updates itself, but it is worth putting up with.
Of the above programs, ClamWin offers the most minimal protection.  Good for old computers that don't go on the internet often.
The middle three programs offer good protection, but take up a larger amount of system resources, slowing down computers a bit more than the other two.
If you have further questions, just let me know.  Cheers!

Brian

Computer Security & Viruses

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Brian Benosky

Expertise

I will help you in eradicating malware and all forms of virus/trojans/adware. I can answer all PC-related hardware issues. I can also troubleshoot Windows OS errors (all versions) and other software problems. HijackThis logs are a MUST for virus related help. If you do not know how to do this, I have posted easy-to-follow instructions on the Ask a Question page. Every computer infection is different, so I will give you personal instructions on how to remove the malware, not a 'pat' answer. You can be assured of a prompt, polite, and knowledgeable response in all regards.

Experience

I have over 25 years experience in using, building, and repairing computers. I have helped over two thousand people here on AllExperts, with consistent Top Feedback Scores. Please look at my answers here: http://en.allexperts.com/q/Computer-Security-Viruses-1737/indexExp_84308.htm I am also a Top Contributor of General Computing answers in Yahoo! Questions.

Education/Credentials
College Educated Self-taught Computer Skills

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.