Anti-virus software suggestions.

Catastrophe_XXVI

I just built my new pc and my subscription to Norton just ran out. I know it's not the most popular among people who really know PCs. What anti virus and mal ware software should I run on my new comp?

Alecthar

I just use Microsoft Security Essentials.

Donovan Puppyfucker

Microsoft Security Essentials

Malwarebytes

Those would both be links if I wasn't on my phone. Both programs are free,

Synthesis

As already pointed out, MSE for all virus and many things like advertising, bugs, etc.

And then Malwarebytes for the few things MSE doesn't cover.

Abracadaniel

Like others have said, Microsoft Security Essentials and Malwarebytes.

You can also try out something like Soluto for things like cutting down boot times and keeping some software up to date.

Finally, Ninite is the best thing in the world. Use it.

Bendery It Like Beckham

I'm using Webroot Secure Anywhere

If you don't mind paying $40 for a anti-virus it's a great choice. I was using MSE for a long time, but sharing a computer with a little brother and sister kinda left me doing virus removal very often. I've had no problems since I started using this. Also barely uses any system resources.

Synthesis

If you're paying for stuff, is ESET's Nod32 still good? I wouldn't buy it myself, but it's out there--and expensive.

Catastrophe_XXVI

How's AVG? It's one I cam up with during some searching. CNET gave it a good review. I also have no problem spending money. I've seen what happens to unprotected computers and for the price of a game I'll buy a yearly sub.

iTunesIsEvil

Microsoft. Security. Essentials.

bowen

Microsoft Security Essentials without a doubt. Avoid AVG.

TL DR

AVG was awesome in 2008. It's crap now. There's really no reason to use anything other than MSE unless you're looking for a centrally-managed enterprise solution.

Stormwatcher

MSE is a lot better than any other solutions.

Synthesis

Yeah, apparently AVG used to be great (prior to v8.0 anyway), but now is way larger memory wise and no longer as well designed. This might not be that big a problem if MSE wasn't so fantastic in practically ever regard, totally free, and integrated extremely well into Windows (i.e. that software practically everyone uses).

The only complaint I can think of against MSE is that it might be a little too proactive, leading to false positives. Which is maybe the worse complaint you can have about antivirus software...