The best free security software

Mse Version 4 Final. http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/products/security-essentials
Mse 4.0.1526.0

 

My opinion is that Kaspersky is one of the best security software out there...I am using it for a while and been very happy and confident with it...I recommend it to everyone...

 

Kaspersky does have a high detection rate, however it is NOT free and it is resource intensive.
I still maintain that MSE is one of the best free av's.

 

I agree with Deks in that MSE is one of the best free AV's. It's very unobtrusive, scans quickly, and simple to use. The only thing better is to be smart about browsing habits.

 

MSE rocks, but honestly any reputable antivirus is going to be fine. AVG, Avast, whatever. I don't think that people need to pay for antiviruses nowadays, though; free ones are good enough.

 

Microsoft has released v3.0 of their Enhanced Mitigation Experience Toolkit/EMET.
' EMET is a free utility that helps prevent vulnerabilities in software from being successfully exploited for code execution. It does so by opt-ing in software to the latest security mitigation technologies. The result is that a wide variety of software is made significantly more resistant to exploitation – even against zero day vulnerabilities and vulnerabilities for which an update has not yet been applied.' link

Version 3.0 is now officially supported for home and enterprise and offers a new 'notifier', making it more user-friendly.
Simply put, this tool can force (internet facing) software like browsers, PDF readers, etc to use modern protection mechanisms against (0-day) exploits.
When Microsoft tested 184 exploits against XP, 181 exploits worked on XPSP3. With EMET added, only 21 functioned. (On Win7 without EMET only 10 exploits worked). PDF link
EMET is small, light and can offer very strong protection and on a level, no other program can. And for free.
Highly recommended for all Windows versions and especially XP users. DL page link

-edit; You can easily check yourself if processes are properly protected with EMET by using Microsofts own SysInternals Process Explorer link

 

I prefer Avast and MSE myself, but another important anti-virus protection is the one sitting on the chair in front of the computer

Just by being a bit cautious while browsing the Internet and such can save a lot of hassle down the road.

 

I would like to hear opinions about this.

Avast > MSE

Avast has spyware protection. Does MSE?

 

Is EMET similar to Secunia PSI?

 

MSE. Free and low resource use.

 

No, not at all.
Secunia PSI is a program to only update your installed programs (and OS).
EMET is something different. It's a tool from Microsoft to force software to use OS/software protection measures; tools to secure software against tampering. See above description and for further explanation, read this concise review.

I recommend Secunia to everyone but use EMET only if you know how to.
At least read the linked review, EMET really isn't difficult to use but you need to know, how to set it up.

 

I personaly like Avast!.
It is very fast and light product. Doesnt slow down the work process and for me it is the best FREE AV solution.

I the past I was using AVG but honestly.. it sucks

 

Not anymore according to the latest test results of AV-Test: AV-TEST - The Independent IT-Security Institute: Mar/Apr 2012

(Couldn't help myself, had to fuel this meaningless discussion )

 

I personally really prefer Microsoft Security Essentials. I used Avira for a long time and I liked it, but the ads were annoying. I then downloaded MSE and haven't looked back. It is low profile, doesn't take up a lot of system resources, and seems like part of the OS.

Only thing that could be improved are the scan times.

 

I think MS managed to improve on the scan times with their latest version 4.
Adding to that, full-system scans aren't really necessary unless you perform them intentionally as part of a maintenance cycle (in which case you would have to wait either way), and sticking with quick scans most of the time works well (they are short even on mechanical HDD's).

 

I've been using Microsoft Security Essentials for some time now and have had no problems with it. I also use chrome with adblock and noscript to keep pesky internet baddies at bay. noscript can take awhile to set up and get working properly but I could not live without it now.

 

Avast offer free version.
AVG also has free version.

free registry cleaners--CCleaner, Advanced System Booster, and is there any more?

 

The best free security software is: format
Linux, dos or whatever version...

I would have picked a hole in the ground but that isn't software.

 

I disagree.
Speaking from personal experience and by observing others (readily repeatable by anyone), it would be sensible to state that the 'best free security software' is you (the user).

Format is something I would resort to if I notice the OS has been damaged by potential malware or other (most of the time user related) functions (and of course if you get a used laptop from someone - its only sensible to start fresh in such a situation).

As for Linux... its not 'perfection' by any stretch of the word and it can also be very user-unfriendly - a lot of which can require use of code to get proper functionality.
That said, I think people in general (myself included) might even benefit from learning some very basic coding, but, an OS should be relatively simple to use, and Linux is not exactly 'simple' in that regard (at least not on the same level of other OS-es... and then of course there are compatibility issues with numerous programs that people use, and some games... - depending on ones usage of course).

DOS - apart from emulation and using it to run legacy software (along with potential games made during the said era) its not exactly a viable option.

As for a hole... well, to each their own.

 

Eset and SAS is all you need without slowing the system down too much

 

Now EMET 3 is even easier to setup.
See here: Protecting your Windows PC with Microsoft EMET 3.0 - rationallyPARANOID.com

 

what about ZoneAlarm.. ZoneAlarm has a Free Antivirus + Firewall solution. I have been using it for a couple of weeks now and it seems good. The Firewall gives you a lot of control over what is accessing the network. Anybody else using it ? comments ?

Free ZoneAlarm Antivirus and Firewall Protection

 

I would say go with Microsoft's free antivirus if you are running windows.

 

I was using MSE for a couple of years with no issues.. But now I want a firewall solution as well.. that's y i opt for Zone Alarm.. just wanted to see if anyone is using it..

 

I have been using Windows Security Essentials, Is there anything that will top this?

 

I hope you meant Microsoft Security Essentials since Windows Security Essentials is actually a rogue antivirus and is considered malware.

 

Why isn't AVG on here?

 

Because it's simply not in the same league as MSE, Avira, and Avast in terms of effectiveness and system-resource usage.

 

I use MSE and Windows Firewall. I used to do things like use Avast anti-virus, Comodo Firewall, and then occasionally scan with MBAM, but I just got tired of all the upkeep and the slow speeds. I think MSE is good enough.

 

The sad thing is that we spend tons of money to secure our computers from those nefarious criminal that might come in the back door. Then we totally neglect the gigantic enterprises like google that we welcome right in the front door.

This database storage monster knows every time, date, location, website, and mouse click we make. Within a few more years if there's anything it won't know about us, it will be a pitifully insignificant item.

 

Mainly because of already mentioned performance and resource usage but also because I want to keep the list somewhat concise.
AVG isn't bad in anyway but I regard others as the better pick While it could be argued that AVG has higher detection than MSE in some tests, MSE scores better in FP's and integration imo; IE Smartscreen already offers decent extra browsing protection f.i.
If you like AVG, there's no reason not to use it though.
There are many other free programs available, like free ThreatFire, ZoneAlarm suite and Outpost Security suite or BufferZone but listing them all would defeat the purpose of a concise "best free security software list".
Much more free programs can already be found here; link.

 

As per today, I have also listed JavaRa. link

It's a program to update Java and to remove any old versions of Java/JRE.
Since a couple of years, Java exploits have become one of the main infection vectors, whenever an exploit is found, malware writers immediately use this to infect users worldwide.
Especially old versions can offer an open door for malware like banking trojans and what not.
While most folks actually never need java, most users do have it installed.
I would advice to remove Java completely unless it's needed of course, then make sure to use JavaRa.
Remember that some programs (especially older software, like on CD) automatically install java also and often these are old and leaky versions.
So, when using java, do yourself a favor (and perhaps friends and relatives by telling them) and start using JavaRa.
Keep your notebook updated and clean!

 

Hi Baserk, this morning I got a pop-up from Avira about "The Avira Protection Cloud" what do you think about this!?!? I left my Avira as is ... since I have kind of got used to what it does!

BTW, a New Look for NBR ... that what happens when I forget to visit anymore.

Thanks!

G!

 

Hi G,

Did the popup offer you to use the APC/Avira Protection Cloud? I haven't got Avira free installed on one of my boxes atm so I cannot check right now. I'll install it soon though to see myself.
Afaik, it's offered in the new 2013 beta version ( link) but it will only be available for the final paid version.
Was the popup offering APC for the 2012 Free version?

 

I've added a link on page 1 list for MRG Effitas.
They perform a daily detection test, specifically of 'zero-day' malware like banking trojans/fake-AV/rootkits, etc.
They test detection results for a range of programs and then retest all programs 6 hours later and at 12 hours later.
As a very small sample set is used (malware tests often use >10000 sample sets for proper detection scores), the MRG Effitas test doesn't necessarily show 'overall malware detection scores' but rather how fast antivirus/malware programs catch up with the hourly/daily flood of fresh new malware versions;

' We have created a simple methodology to emulate how these zero day threats could infect a system in the real world.

The samples are downloaded from their native URLs via Internet Explorer to test systems with active security software installed. The Security applications will have up to four chances of passing the test by achieving any one of the following:

1) Detecting the sample upon download
2) Detecting the sample downloaded to the desktop during an on demand scan
3) Detecting and blocking execution of the sample on the desktop
4) In the case of financial malware, preventing data breach by any active sample.

All tests are conducted on a clean Windows 7 32 VM, with all updates applied.
All security applications are installed with default settings and the most recent build and signatures used in each test.'.

Again, the sample set is very small so any conclusions about 'overall detection scores' should be taken with a pinch of salt.
The '0+6+12 hours later testing' however, gives a nice view of how fast (or how slow) different security software companies react. Tested products can be found here.

 

Hi Baserk,

It offered the "Cloud" deal ... but I didn't chance it since I am Happy with the Standard Avira ... and since it has been working Fine, I figured why mess with it.

Thanks for your reply ... I just wanted to make sure Nothing Funny was happening.

BTW, the Thread looks really Great!

G!

 

On page one, SUPERAntispyware has been removed. Once a worthy tool, other alternatives like MBAM or HMP3 perform stronger so I see no reason to keep it listed.
I've added Emsisoft Emergency Kit 2.0.
EEK is a portable program/for USB sticks. It offers malware removal and HiJackFree to view and control processes and autoruns, services, drivers and your host file.
Austrian Emsisoft combines their own antimalware engine with the Ikarus engine, offering a very high detection rate.
Read more/download here.

 

Hi Baserk,

I could never figure out why SAS would mostly go after the "Cookies" ... I guess that was a good sign ... meaning my laptop was clean ... but then for removing Cookies, I wonder why it had to Restart the pc to remove them.

Thanks!

G!

 

As for me Avira is the best free antivirus software.

 

After years of Avira got tired of the bloat , use Trustport , simple anti virus , use Outpost firewall and spywareblaster , so covered well , hate the all in one deals that always have a weak point . I put together a combo of what I consider good products . So far have never been infected . Also use FF with no scipt

 

Hi Baserk,

Just got an Alert from Avira that Avira 2013 is available ... but when looking to the upgrade, I was Not sure if I wanted to switch to 2013 version.

Baserk, what is Your Suggestion on Avira 2013 version? Yes or No!?!?

Thanks!

G!

 

Hi folks,

Just curious has anyone else tried Avira 2013 and Your feel for it vs 2012 model?

Thanks!

 

I'm using Avira since 3 years or so and for now I have no intention of changing it, it works fine.

 

Hi G,

Bit late but Avira 2013 Free runs fine on XP and 7, installed it for my parents also (replaced MSE).
The GUI is now clearly a You-are-running-only-a-meager-AV-instead-of-our-full-suite / isn't the prettiest but as a free AV it still recommendable imo.
Runs pretty light, high detection, also pretty good 0-hour detection (Avast performs a bit better here, in some tests that is).
cheers.

 

I do tech work mostly in the PC patch. Use AVAST folks.
Know what percentage of "infections" these days are Viruses? virtually nil.
The risk to users is wandering into a web page that is booby-trapped. There is a reason why AVAST came from 'nowhere' to leading the market with very little advertising - it takes awhile, but infectees and those who bail them out eventually - after a long time - figger this stuff out.
AVAST plus a GOOD browser, properly defended is 90% of the battle.
unless you're using windows vista.... that's another story. i feel for you if so.

 

I used to run Avira , until 2 of the comps in my house got infected with some keylogger and trojans . So I switched all 8 computers from Avira .

 

Hi Baserk,

Thanks for your reply ... since I value your insight. Nice to see you back.

Q1: When you say Avira 2013 works fine on XP & 7 ... I suppose you didn't mention Vista, since probably you don't have a PC with Vista on it ... right?

Q2: Any reason still showing Avira 2012 on your front page vs 2013?

Q3: I read somewhere that Avira 2013 Installation is a bit Aggressive and it removes any other AV that is on your PC? So, since I have Comodo FW, Spyware Blaster, MBAM, SAS, does that mean that Avira will Try to remove them? Also there were comments about getting the BSOD while installing Avira 2013? ANY suggestion or comments on this!?!?

Thanks,

G!

 

Hi cognus,

Can you explain the following points that you made ...

Q1: What do you consider a "Good" Browser?
Q2: What did you mean by if you use Vista ... you are SOL'ed?

Thanks,

G!

 

Hi G,

1-Nope, haven't got Vista installed atm. I'd expect it to run fine though on Vista as both XP and 7 haven't given me any issues.
2-This I just forgot to change. Changed now.
3- Avira really is aggressive when it comes across other anti-malware programs.
While it states during setup that other software will cause conflicts, Avira will run fine if you first uninstall the other programs and reinstall them after having installed Avira.
Bothersome? Yes, absolutely but as I was doing fresh installs not so much in my case.
i can imagine, it's a nuisance to un/reinstall your entire setup.
Avira hasn't given me any BSOD on Win7 nor on any XP setup I've installed it on but then again, that's just anecdotal evidence of course.

Apart from the un/reinstall hassle, I see no reason not to use it but if you're running an AV like Avast, I don't see a reason to switch either.
Remember, I regularly switch AV/AM programs to test for new features/performance/conflicts etc. With your layered setup any decent free AV will offer suitable extra protection.
cheers.

 

Hi Baserk,

Thanks for the Detailed Response. You surely saved me a lot of hassle by suggesting to uninstall the conflicts before running Avira 2013. So, I will remove MBAM, SAS, Spyware Blaster, WinPatrol, and Comodo FW.

I don't think I have any other active AV/AM.

Appreciate the Help again!

G!