You can’t be foolhardy about computer security, when your PC is connected with the Internet. The Internet world is a nasty place with malicious programs planted around everywhere to steal your private data and gain unauthorized access to your computing resources. You can protect your PC from all these threats by installing a good antivirus software.
It is no secret that the best antivirus software programs that offer complete security are not made available for free. However, there are many free programs that offer basic security features that you could temporarily opt for. Although they do not come equipped with advanced security features, they are good choices for basic users. Let us see what are the basic features that you should look out for in the best antivirus for Windows 7.
Choosing an Antivirus Program
What are the things to look out for when choosing an antivirus software? One feature is real time scanning facility, as well as custom scan and quick scanning options. The frequency of updates and resistance to multiple types of security threats (virus, trojans, adware, malware) are some of the other prime features to look out for. If you can get Internet security, email scanning and firewall option too, then it is an added bonus.
What’s the Best Antivirus For Windows 7?
Having been a computer user for many years, I have used many different types of free antivirus programs. Here are the top four programs, I would personally recommend.
Avira AntiVir Personal
Widely rated as one of the best antivirus software programs ever, Avira Antivir Personal offers malware protection, antispyware protection, real time scanning, as well as custom scanning options. You can schedule periodic scans and benefit from regular updates. Install it and try it out.
AVG Free Antivirus 9
A market leader and one of the first antivirus programs to be offered for free, AVG free antivirus 9 is one of the best free programs out there. Other than all the basic features, this program offers email scanning and link scanning as well. It provides excellent anti-malware protection. This is a popular choice among netizens who are looking for basic Internet security. I have personally used AVG free antivirus for some years and found it quite adequate. This is one of the top free antivirus for Windows 7.
Avast! Free Antivirus
Rated among the top antivirus software programs, Avast Free Antivirus, provides anti-malware and antispyware protection. The Avast engine is known to be one of the best in the business. Besides all the basic features, this program offers email, P2P and instant messenger scanning options that are not offered by other programs. This is a good antivirus program for Windows 7.
Microsoft Security Essentials
Last but not the least, Microsoft Security essentials is one free antivirus program offered by Redmond. It offers all the basic scanning features and is known for its antimalware protection. The updates are quite regular and this Microsoft product is quite highly recommended for use.
For the basic user, Microsoft Security Essentials will serve the purpose. However, for the advanced user, Antivir, Avast or AVG are better choices. While none of them can guarantee complete immunity from viruses and malicious programs, these are the most dependable ones for you to choose from!