Anti-Virus softare and Firewall
February 6, 2012 8:40 AM

Firewall and Anti-Virus Software

Hello

I am looking for a good free anti virus and Firewall software for my PC (win xp).

Thank you!
posted by pakora1 to Computers & Internet (10 answers total) 2 users marked this as a favorite
Microsoft Security Essentials (it does work on XP according to the MS site)
posted by EndsOfInvention at 8:43 AM on February 6, 2012


EndsOfInvention is correct. I use this on every machine that I own as well as every machine that I work on for other people. I've never found a better solution (though Avast also works fairly well) in my time doing computer work.
posted by deezil at 9:03 AM on February 6, 2012


Check with your internet provider. Sometimes they offer free versions of Mcafee or Norton.
posted by royalsong at 9:05 AM on February 6, 2012


I use Microsoft Security Essentials, Avast and the Native Firewall built into Vista. If you decide to spend maybe $40 instead of using freeware, I suggest using NoD32.
posted by RedShrek at 9:31 AM on February 6, 2012


Microsoft Security Essentials is just as effective as paid antivirus and it's just as free as the free antivirus. Fewer ads and nagginess, to boot.
posted by rhizome at 10:59 AM on February 6, 2012


If for some reason you don't want MSE, I've used the free Antivir for years with no problems.
posted by coolguymichael at 11:14 AM on February 6, 2012


thanks

Is this Microsoft Security Essentials also a Firewall or just an anti virus?

(i have installed it, hope to keep my computer safe online) :)
posted by pakora1 at 12:28 PM on February 6, 2012


Take a look at my profile for a PC securing guide (any suggestions for improvement most welcome too). I last updated it in October but should still be fairly current. Long story short, MSE + Firewall is great. Also make sure your software is getting patched (Adobe, Apple, Sun, etc) not just Windows critical updates. Unpatched 3rd party software is the primary vector for malware attacks, and is often browser independent. If you have any other concerns or questions feel free to memail me anytime.
posted by samsara at 12:51 PM on February 6, 2012


thanks Samsara (i didnt see the guide but will look again)
posted by pakora1 at 8:39 AM on February 7, 2012


Sure thing, it's here as well.
posted by samsara at 5:49 AM on February 8, 2012


« Older Growing food at home. Or trying to.   |   How to pay for mold clean up for low income family... Newer »
This thread is closed to new comments.