What Security Software do you Recommend?

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I definitely agree with your position on "suites". I used Avanquest's SystemSuite Pro (SSP) for several years. While it's convenient to have a do-all like that, its AV and (especially) AS programs are weak. Firewall and PC cleanup routines were good. However, after getting a new computer middle of last year, SSP conflicted with the TPM (trusted program module) on the mobo, and I had to stop using it. I replaced it with Avira AntiVir (#1-rated free AV by Consumer Reports and PC World), Spyware Blaster, Malwarebytes and SuperAntiSpyware, and use Windows' firewall. Have not had a virus or serious spyware infection in 2 years. Also tried Avast for awhile, and other than it's kludgy interface, found it to be almost as good as Avira.

I'm surprised that you didn't mention any of these except Avast. CA and AVG were probably very good 5+ years ago, but not today. Avira is rated the #1 free AV by both Consumer Reports and just this month by PC World.

BitDefender Internet Security 2010
Have been using it for over 10 years. European, so folks have not really heard of it. Have installed it on over 300 PCs, including all family members. Not one of them has had a virus or (fill-in-blank)ware problem. Ever.
The Zeus virus that can grab your bank double verification codes is stopped cold. Hourly updates if wanted.
At .03 cents a day, it is worth it. Don't go to Starbucks for 2 days and you got it covered.

ps Also have SpyBot S&D.

I suspect you may have created this article before Microsoft Security Essentials was released. M$ Security essentials has received good reviews.
btw I use all your other recommended tools at times.

You apparently missed the sidebar that directly discusses Microsoft Security Esentials.

07-Oct-2009

What is "CA" thaat is taked about in the comments section?

CA is Computer Associates - http://www.ca.com - they've been around for a looooong time, and have several anti-malware products.

07-Oct-2009

Like you Leo, I have been using CA Antivirus for years - (I know you don't like suites!)

<Leo's reply>
Yes, I'm moving away from CA myself, and will be updating my recommendations as time permits.

Mary: but you said much earlier that you didn't like suites and couldn't recommend them so why have you been using CA?
We have used CA in this house for years and have had no problems. There may be some lack of 'speed' but if you lock your house door you are slowed down when wanting to get out!
Mary

CA has multiple products, one of which is a dedicated anti-virus program only, which I did use for many years. I used it because it was the corporate solution while I worked at Microsoft, and I figured if it was good enough for them ... . I used it for many years after leaving. As I mention in the article what's "best" tends to change over time, and I switched.

CA does also have a suite, which is a different product than the stand-alone anti-virus. And you know my position on suites.

07-Oct-2009

As someone already mentioned it, MalwareBytes is (in my humble opinion) by far the best free scanner on the market. It digs out everything that shouldn't be there. As primary AV I use Eset Smart Security, but AMB finds things which Eset has overlooked. I scan with it once a week, and have never been in trouble!

Some months ago I started using Microsoft LiveOneCare, and am quite pleased with it. Having used many of the others it dawned on me to try MS. It seems to have worked well and also backs up my files. So far so good. John Mutch

Am amazed that ESET Nod 32 does not get a mention been useing it for years with NO problems .

COMODO INTERNET SECURITY AND BIO CLEAN = BRILLIANT

This is a free for home use, all in one suite, as the 2 programs compliment each other. It takes a bit to learn them, especially heuristic alerts, but its worth the effort. Do NOT run them with anything else, or you will have software conflict.

Comodo performs as well, or better, than all the other security software, including some excellent payware. However, nothing is going to be a perfect solution, so don't beat yourself over this.

I have used these for 2 years now, rarely scan, and have no problems. I highly recommend this security solution. Regards Bill3.

I've used Vipre for some time and find to be one of the best out there.

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