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Computer Security & Viruses/What Is The Best All Around Freeware Anti-virus Program?

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Expert: - 5/16/2011


Question
I'm coming to the end of my "free trial" of AVG and I'm not a huge fan. It seems to take up a lot of system resources of which I have very little. I tried Avast as well, but wasn't impressed. What have you found to be the most thorough, space saving, reliable freeware anti-virus program?

Additional Details
Operating System
MS Windows XP Media Center Edition Professional 32-bit SP3
CPU
Intel Pentium 4 550
Intel Pentium 4 550
Prescott 90nm Technology
RAM
512MB Dual-Channel DDR2 @ 199MHz (3-3-3-8)
Motherboard
Dell Inc. 0J3492 (Microprocessor)
Graphics
DELL E773c (1152x864@60Hz)
128MB RADEON X300/X550 Series (ATI)
128MB RADEON X300/X550 Series Secondary (ATI)
CrossFire Disabled
Hard Drives
78GB Seagate ST380013AS (SATA) 30 °C
Optical Drives
JLMS DVD-ROM XJ-HD166
NEC DVD+-RW ND-3450A
Audio
Unimodem Half-Duplex Audio Device

Answer
Hi Amanda

The best freeware anti-virus program I have found is Avira Anti-Vir:

http://www.avira.com/en/avira-free-antivirus

I have been using it for a few years and have not had anything get past it.  The program does not take up a lot of system resources, so it will run fine on your computer.  It even made the top pick in this months issue of Consumer Reports as best free anti-virus program.  The only downside is one daily pop-up advertising the paid version.  I can live with that, knowing the computer is secure.  Hope that helps!

Brian  

Computer Security & Viruses

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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.

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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

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