The Best Free Anti-Virus Programme

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In summary, the best free anti-virus programme is Avast. It has real-time automatic updates up to several times a day, and is effective against viruses. If the computer is infected, expect some loss of files.
  • #1
kindaichi
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Like the title portrays,i need recommendations on the best free anti-virus programme i can get.I need this for my school.Here is the case:

My teacher asked me to find out the best anti-virus programme because according to her,the computers in the school are affected by virus.And all the computers are linked together.So she asked me to find out so that she can scan the computers.Or is there any other way?Thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
I'm very happy with Avast the free home version, with real time automatic updates up to several times a day

http://www.avast.com/
 
  • #3
Another decent one is http://free.grisoft.com/freeweb.php/doc/2/". I've used both AVG and Avast, and I have to say that I prefer Avast. There are pros and cons to both though, so you might want to try both (not at the same time. I have AVG on my desktop, and Avast on my laptop).

You can google more free anti-virus programs, but I think Avast and AVG are the best. Feel free to look around though.
 
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  • #4
kindaichi said:
Like the title portrays,i need recommendations on the best free anti-virus programme i can get.I need this for my school.Here is the case:

My teacher asked me to find out the best anti-virus programme because according to her,the computers in the school are affected by virus.And all the computers are linked together.So she asked me to find out so that she can scan the computers.Or is there any other way?Thanks in advance
Kindaichi,

You will need to isolate each computer and the network operating system, then independently run an on-line AV program on each machine to identify and remove the virus. However, some machines may be so badly corrupted that their hard drives will need to be erased and the operating system reinstalled. That will entail a complete loss of user and system files. In any event, if infected, expect some loss of files regardless.

Do not attempt to install a free-standing AV program if you feel the computer is infected. A virus on an infected machine will automatically infect and corrupt the AV program. First, run a scan using an on-line detector. Any one of the following will do:

Command AntiVirus: http://www.commandondemand.com/eval/index.cfm
Trend AntiVirus: http://housecall.antivirus.com
Symantec: http://security.symantec.com/ssc/home.asp
Panda Software: http://www.pandasoftware.com/activescan/com/activescan_principal.htm
BitDefender: http://www.bitdefender.com/scan/licence.php

After you have confirmed that the machine is clean, you can then install any AV program. Among the freeware AV programs, I happen to like Avast, but AVG is also good:
Avast: http://www.avast.com/eng/download-avast-home.html
AVG: http://free.grisoft.com/freeweb.php/doc/2/

Be forewarned that any previous AV program needs to be completely uninstalled before a new AV program can be installed. The uninstall programs for Norton AV and McAfee are notorious for leaving components installed that will prevent any new AV program from functioning properly. Good luck.
 
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  • #5
RJ Emery said:
The uninstall programs for Norton AV and McAfee are notorious for leaving components installed that will prevent any new AV program from functioning properly.
lol they really do that?

:smile:
 
  • #6
Thrice said:
lol they really do that? :smile:

Yes. Let's just say their uninstall programs are poorly designed. There are special programs that one needs to use to entirely purge one's system of NAV or McAfee, and even then, they may not work.

After trying to remove NAV via the uninstall and the special downloaded RNAV program, I finally had to trip through the system registry and manually yank every Norton, NAV or Symantec reference I could find. Same situation when I worked with McAfee.

AVG and Avast, OTOH, will uninstall cleanly. And they both are more effective.
 
  • #7
I recommend NOD32. It is light and does its business well.
 

FAQ: The Best Free Anti-Virus Programme

Question 1:

What is the best free anti-virus program?

The best free anti-virus program is a subjective topic and can vary depending on personal preferences and the type of device being used. Some popular options include Avast, AVG, Avira, and Malwarebytes.

Question 2:

Can free anti-virus programs provide enough protection?

Yes, free anti-virus programs can provide sufficient protection for most users. However, paid programs may offer additional features and more comprehensive protection.

Question 3:

How do I choose the right anti-virus program?

When choosing an anti-virus program, consider the level of protection it offers, user reviews and ratings, ease of use, and compatibility with your device. It is also important to regularly update and run scans with the program to ensure maximum protection.

Question 4:

Are free anti-virus programs safe to download?

Yes, as long as you download the program from a reputable source, such as the official website of the anti-virus company. It is important to be cautious of fake anti-virus programs that may contain malware.

Question 5:

Do I still need anti-virus software if I have a Mac?

While Macs are less susceptible to viruses than Windows devices, they are still vulnerable. It is recommended to have anti-virus software installed on all devices to protect against potential threats.

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