anti virus software

[divagrl]

what's the difference between trend micro and webroot internet security essential?

I usually buy Trend Mirco.. Wanted to try Webroot, but at the same time I want to know the difference? thanks so much

[Eyedumgai]

I use MS Security Essentials and have been happy since its debut with Windows 7. The best thing is that it's free, unobtrusive, and just plain works. I would not be surprised if all the anti-virus makers start another anti-trust cry-fowl soon.

[mrhmoobportland]

Software is a service these days, so you're purchasing something to reassure you that your computer won't get virus/malware jacked.  The licenses are usually good for 1-3 years of free definition updates.  If you're comfortable paying for something, that's your prerogative, but there are many free alternatives out there.

• Avast
• AVG
• Avira
• Microsoft Security Essentials
• Panda Cloud

If you have Comcast, you can also get free Norton Security Suite co-branded as Constant Guard from Xfinity (yeah, what a lame name).  It's available here:

http://xfinity.comcast.net/constantguard/Products/CGPS/norton/?cid=NET_33_641

Otherwise, you can check with your internet service provider (ISP) to see if they offer a similar deal.  It makes sense that ISPs should offer antivirus and internet security software, seeing as malware will utilize their network to attack other machines.  Wasted bandwidth costs money and creates problems when other servers blacklist the ISP for the said virus attacks.  I don't understand why more ISPs don't give this out free.