Free Antivirus Software

[crokett]

I need some anti-virus sofwtare for my in-laws. I have used Avast but it has a larger footprint than I want and I've had a couple issues with it mucking up the browser firewall settings. Does anybody use AVG or Avira?

[cork58]

I have used AVG in the past and it worked well for what it is. I use Zone Alarm now and like it allot. The have a free version as well.


Just my thoughts.

Cork

[Black wallnut]

On my home PC I use both AVG and Zone Alarm. Both are free and they both have blocked infections and other types of attacks.

[mudder]

Another vote for AVG, I use the paid version on my main computer and the free version on my laptops. Have not had a virus since installing AVG.

[dkerfoot]

Yep - AVG includes Anti-Spyware now so it is a perfect solution. Just warn them that when it tells them there is a new version out in a year that they can still get it for free - they just need to look for it. AVG of course encourages them to "upgrade" to the paid version.

The built in Windows firewall is fine - no need for ZoneAlarm. If you don't have Trojans, there is no need for an egress firewall. ingress (like what is built in) is fine.

Many people keep upgrading their security until their PC is bogged down - No need for it. Sure, an armored car might be safer to drive, but it makes for a pretty lousy ride.

[shoottx]

Another vote for AVG and zone alarm. I used to buy the brand name stuff and had a lot of problems. Since using this combo no problem.

Just be sure and set the scan on AVG for a period when they will not be using the computer. The scan degrades the preformance significantly.

[RayintheUK]

AVG 8 is still available free from

http://free.avg.com/ww.download?prd=afe

Ray.

[BobSch]

On my home PC I use both AVG and Zone Alarm. Both are free and they both have blocked infections and other types of attacks.

A great combination. Been using both for a couple of years now and no viruses at all. One thing to remember is to set up AVG to auto update, especially if the users aren't computer-savvy.

[Rand]

Yet another AVG user here. Much better than Norton or Mcafee. It doesn't have any noticable effect on system performance.

[crokett]

Thanks fellas. I installed AVG. Hopefully it will be a little better about annoying popups, too.

[dbhost]

Pop ups? Spyware? Viruses?


Oh yeah... Windows... Never mind...


Sent cleanly to you from my Linux desktop...

[thekon]

I had lots o problems with avg have been using avira in a relatives computer lately with few if any problems, I personally use linux but avira seems to work good without the bloat. Had lots of problems with avg locking up and not playing well with other programs.

[eccentrictinkerer]

FWIW, I've been using the 'Avast' free version for a couple of years. No problems - no viruses.