I’ve always been asked what’s the best and affordable anti-virus program in the market that can be installed on a new machine. Normally, ‘affordable’ means to my family and friend FREE! I tell them off the bat to get Microsoft Security Essentials because it’s a free product that anyone can download to help defend computers running Windows 7 against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software. It’s a very lightweight application that does the job and it’s popular because it is free.
Note: In Windows 8, Windows Defender replaces Microsoft Security Essentials. Windows Defender runs in the background and notifies you when you need to take specific action. However, you can use it anytime to scan for malware if your computer isn’t working properly or you clicked a suspicious link online or in an email message.
Why should I download Microsoft Security Essentials?
- Comprehensive protection—Microsoft Security Essentials helps defend your computer against viruses, worms, Trojans, and other malicious software and provides you with free spyware protection.
- Easy to get, easy to use—Microsoft Security Essentials is available at no cost, so there’s no registration process that requires billing or personal information collection. It installs after a quick download and then stays automatically up to date with the latest spyware protection technology and signature updates.
- Quiet protection—Microsoft Security Essentials doesn’t get in your way. It runs quietly in the background and schedules a scan when your computer is most likely idle. You only see alerts when you need to take action.