Expert: James Filmer - 6/27/2011

Question
Hello,

I was using Avast Anti-virus program with Windows XP.  The computer starting rebooting by itself over and over.  After much hardware troubleshooting and re-installing XP, it appears the problem was caused by Avast.  I uninstalled Avast.
Question: with XP SP3 and IE 8 protections, is anti-virus even necessary anymore?  If so, are there any free anti-virus programs you recommend for this XP SP3/ IE 8 system?

Thank you,
Jeff

Answer
Dear Jeff, you might have missed "instructions to the questioner", but an antivirus application is absolutely 100% necessary. If you don't have one running at all times, updated everyday, your computer will start breaking down quickly from visiting the internet. Also, free versions don't come with a Firewall, so you'll need make sure your Windows installation is working properly at all times.

What I said was:
For "What's the best application" questions, please use a search engine to find reputable sites that specialize in comparisons. What's best for one user, may not be best for another. Not knowing what other security applications are in use and not knowing one's personal preferences, makes it impossible to determine which one is truly "best". Also, software vendors change or discontinue applications from time to time. For a personalized system and user preferences analysis, summary and recommendations, please contact me via Enrgy21.com/support.
Please note: a link to Techsupportalert.com and a few other excellent support sites on enrgy21.com's home page and enrgy21.com/tools that provide some security software comparisons.