Best Free Antiviruss Apps

Best Free Antivirus Apps

First, a disclaimer. Free and best don’t always go hand-in-hand – especially when it comes to antivirus software. Most of the software packages on this list are designed as entry-level protection. They’re designed to entice users into buying the advance protections and manageability that comes with the fee-based software and services. For home users and small businesses on a budget, these free antivirus applications will provide “good enough” protection. For solution providers, these apps should be treated as “demo units.” The trick is up-selling once these packages are installed.

Panda Softwarewww.pandasecurity.comPanda Active Scan 2.0 provides in-the-cloud scanning, detection and removal of malware, security status checking and vulnerability checks.

Panda Softwarewww.pandasecurity.comPanda Active Scan 2.0 provides in-the-cloud scanning, detection and removal of malware, security status checking and vulnerability checks.

ALWIL Softwarewww.avast.comALWIL’s Avast antivirus package includes a full array of features, including protection against rootkits and spyware, P2P inspections, real-time malware scanning and Web filtering.

BitDefenderwww.bitdefender.comDesigned for Windows home and professional versions, the free version of BitDefender Free Edition provides scanning and removal of most known viruses, scheduled system scanning, quarantining of suspect files and activity reporting.

Avirawww.avira.comAvira AntiVir free version provides rudimentary protection against viruses and worms and other Internet-born threats. However, the premium version offers more comprehensive security and features.

Clamwinwww.clamwin.comClamwin is an open-source antivirus application developed and supported by a community of users and developers. The application is designed for all versions of Windows up to Vista.

Microsoft www.microsoft.comMicrosoft Security Essentials – still in beta and successor to Windows Defender – is getting good early reviews. The free client-based product provides basic antivirus and malware protection. The general release is expected this fall.