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Software

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  • 08-12-2021 10:32am
    #1
    elaineb69
    Registered Users Posts: 1 ✭


    Just got a new laptop can anyone suggest a good free anti virus software. I use it for work so it’s my life line

    Post edited by Shield on
    Tagged:


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    #2
    Esel
    Registered Users Posts: 22,002 ✭✭✭✭Esel


    Wrong forum, but the built-in Microsoft Security Essentials (SE) in Windows is very good. I used to use AVG before switching to SE.

    Not your ornery onager



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    #3
    One eyed Jack
    Registered Users Posts: 23,657 ✭✭✭✭One eyed Jack


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/118292247#Comment_118292247


    Aye, wrong forum, but MSE isn’t available for Windows 10 (Windows 11 if it’s a spanky new laptop the OP has). The built-in antivirus in Windows is now called Defender, definitely sufficient for home use.

    Work laptop though I wouldn’t use a free AV solution, I use Webroot AV - small footprint, unobtrusive, it’s basically everything Norton isn’t 😂

    If it has to be free though OP, I’d go with Malwarebytes.

    Unless it’s a Mac, then I have no idea as I’ve rarely had cause to use one.



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    #4
    NewClareman
    Registered Users Posts: 1,436 ✭✭✭NewClareman


    @OP The free built in anti-virus in Windows 10/11 (Windows Defender) is very good. In independent tests it consistently achieves results as good as other free and paid alternatives. For example, see here: https://www.av-test.org/en/antivirus/business-windows-client/windows-10/october-2021/microsoft-defender-antivirus-4.18-212518/. If you stay away from dodgy sites and don't click on links in mails you should be ok.

    Having said this, if you are interacting with companies/clients online, check that they don't require that you use a specific product. If you work for a company with an IT department check with them for guidance.



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    #5
    Shield
    Moderators, Society & Culture Moderators, Help & Feedback Category Moderators Posts: 9,644 CMod ✭✭✭✭Shield


    Mod: Moved to Laptops from Feedback with redirect.



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    #6
    billyhead
    Registered Users Posts: 9,545 ✭✭✭billyhead


    Is AVG free edition still any use?



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    #7
    fritzelly
    Registered Users Posts: 17,248 ✭✭✭✭fritzelly


    Built in Windows Defender and common sense are all you need



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    #8
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/118292581#Comment_118292581

    use the microsoft one instead - it uses less cpu, is just as good in the anti-virus role and won't be constantly trying to get you to upgrade.



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