One of the most notorious software bundles on new PCs is a Trial version of an Anti-Virus package. Rather than sending McAfee or Norton $50 – $100 bucks, take a look at the FREE alternatives below.
Microsoft Security Essentials is Very Groovy and FREE!
We’ve talked about Microsoft’s Free Anti-Virus offering quite a bit here on groovyPost, so it’s only fitting I list it first in my options for Free Anti-Virus software. Back in October Microsoft released their FREE anti-virus solution. Since then, it’s received some really good press and high rankings from independent AV/Malware Test labs; #1 in fact for FREE AV Products. I highly recommend it, and yes, it’s the AV I have installed on all my PC’s. Honestly, Microsoft hit a home run with this guy. I probably could have made this article a lot shorter by just listing Security Essentials. It’s that good. If you’re looking for alternatives to Microsoft however, I’ve listed a few more below.
A List of Anti-Virus Programs Compatible With Windows 7
AVG Free Edition is a popular choice and is working great with Windows 7! Microsoft has certified it as officially compatible.
Avira Antivir offers a free anti-virus software that is working and compatible with Windows 7. Microsoft hasn’t officially certified this one, but in my testing, it works just fine. Kaspersky is another paid anti-virus, which recently gave away 1-year subscriptions during the Windows 7 launch. It runs great with 7 and offers adequate protection.
Avast! AntiVirus (Home Edition) is another Free AV product which has received good marks. Free is good so don’t hesitate to give it a whirl. Commercial Products (Not Free) With the Free options out there, I’m reluctant to even list the commercial products. That being said here’s a couple I’ve used in the past that appear to be fully Windows 7 compliant. ESET, while being a paid anti-virus it still proves to be the best solution for “resource-light” protection. ESET does offer a 30-day free trial and is completely compatible with Windows 7.
Norton has made the list again this year, proving to be one of the oldest Anti-virus systems still around. [Norton Link]
Trend Micro has always been one of my favorite choices in the past, but it’s hard to recommend now with the emergence of Microsoft’s Free AV Offering. However, if you’re a die-hard Trend customer, you will be happy to know they have a working Windows 7 Product. Additionally, if all you need is a look under the hood, Trend Micro does provide A free scan from its HouseCall application. It now supports all version of Windows 7 (Including x64), XP and Vista. It comes in handy if you’re in a pinch. Did we miss your favorite? Have you used one of these products or perhaps you have experience with their customer support? Tell us about it in the comments! Comment
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