Anti-virus help

[modfather]

Im currently running Avira and just wondered what everyone else is using and what is currently considered the best.

Im thinking of switching to microsoft security essentials or Avast

[Sam Slater]

Get Microsoft Security Essentials. I've had it for over 2 years without it picking up anything. Mind you, I don't go downloading dodgy torrents or frequent shady websites so I probably haven't 'tested' it as thoroughly as some may do. I installed MSE on my sister's laptop 18 months ago and she has three kids that use it. She's never had any nasties either.

Just set it up to do a weekly scan and have it download updates before scanning and you can then leave it and it won't bother you.

I always scan my pc once a month with a different scanner to make sure there's nothing Security Essentials is missing. Try Emsisoft Emergency Kit Scanner, found here. You don't have to install it and there's an option to unpack it to a usb stick so you can take it with you and use it on any pc you see fit. Just pick up a crappy 1/2gig usb stick for a few quid and install it on that. You can then use it for any PC you're currently using, or a friends, for example. Oh, and it's all free.

[modfather]

Thanks Sam yeah after reding a few reviews im going to give MSE a go

[sparky]

Avast works fine for me and several friends / colleagues without being too heavy on resources.
Most are still running XP and a couple Vista Home Premium.
I don't think any are on 7 yet but maybe after the 25th....

[modfather]

Well its a close run thing ive read theyre both pretty good , had a root kit which Avira didnt pick up luckily i run Adaware too

[vampy1977]

Microsoft Security Essentials gets my vote too.