Free Antivirus Software

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  • Free Antivirus Software Review

    As noted, each of the three free antivirus scanners - AntiVir PersonalEdition Classic, AVAST 4 Home Edition, and AVG Free Edition - have proven ability to detect in-the-wild viruses. This is a core, basic functionality of any reputable antivirus scanner and thus serves only as the basis for inclusion in the review, i.e. no points were awarded for meeting this minimum qualification. (Before considering any antivirus solution, you should check their ItW certification by consulting any of the following: VB100%, ICSALabs, or Checkmark).


  • Top 5 Online Scanners

    An online virus scanner should never be considered a substitute for an installed antivirus scanner. But if you suspect your installed antivirus is missing a threat or you simply want a second opinion, an online scanner can be a valuable adjunct to security. Each of the following online scanners are considered best-of-breed and can offer important adjunct protection.


  • AntiVir PersonalEdition Classic

    AntiVir PersonalEdition Classic provides free antivirus protection for Windows XP/2000/NT/ME/98. The svelte scanner installed only 34MB and 3 running processes to our Windows XP Pentium 4 test system, making it an excellent option for those with older PCs or limited system resources.


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  • AVAST 4 Home Edition

    AVAST 4 Home Edition provides free antivirus protection for Windows XP/2000/NT/ME/98. The scanner installed just under 40MB and 6 running processes to our Windows XP Pentium 4 test system, taking a slightly bigger toll than other free antivirus scanners, but still well suited for older PCs or those with limited system resources.


  • AVG Free Edition

    AVG Free Edition provides free antivirus protection for Windows XP/2000/NT/ME/98. Installing only 30Mb of files and 4 running processes, AVG Free Edition is the smallest antivirus scanner we've tested and may well be the best choice for an older PC with severely limited system resources.


  • McAfee AVERT Stinger

    When I was a kid, my mom used to put a baking soda paste on bee stings and bug bites. I'm not sure it really helped that much, but psychologically it made me feel alot better. McAfee's AVERT labs has released a new tool, Stinger, that takes the sting out of many popular viruses and it's definitely much more than a 'feel good' fix. At a time when virus writers specifically target antivirus software, disabling its protective shields and leaving systems difficult to disinfect, Stinger is a must have in your arsenal. Best of all, Stinger is free - consider it a philanthropic remedy to cure today's most common viruses.


  • Antivirus Software: Choosing the Top Picks

    Antivirus software should first and foremost prove its ability to detect and remove viruses. Performance is also important and should include factors such as system impact, user-friendliness, and basic features such as right-click scanning, configurable extension lists, and ability to update easily. The Top Picks chosen all meet these criteria.


  • Protection You Can Count On

    In the previous article, we looked at why pre-installed software might be a prescription for trouble and just what constitutes a virus. Determining that antivirus protection is a necessity should be the easy part (yes, you need it). The hard part is deciding which one to use.


  • Antivirus Apps Add New Tools

    Two new programs are expanding the usual role of antivirus software, adding features that tackle spam and spyware, as well as ways to detect brand-new viruses. The new programs have been announced by Global Hauri and Norman Data Defense Systems.


  • Trend Micro Updates PC-cillin

    Trend Micro is updating and expanding its antivirus software with the release of PC-cillin Internet Security 2004, a suite of security programs and services for small offices and homes.


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