Microsoft SE or Avast Pro????? That is the question.

[SOD'EM]

I have had Avast Pro for some time now (Don't ask me how, but I got it free). I have had no problems with it and am a firm believer of "If it's not broke, don't fix it". Is there any reason I should get rid of Avast and install Microsoft Security Essentials?

 

I had never even heard of it until I read a couple of threads here.

 

Thoughts please.

[Tezcatlipoca]

As long as you're keeping Avast Pro updated with the latest releases, I'd be inclined to stick with what you have.

 

Ostensibly, both programs do the same thing, and both do it well, but Avast also does boot scans (which SE currently doesn't), and is a little more robust in its realtime protection and scans, so you're a little more protected with Avast.

 

I personally choose to run AVG rather than SE on the Windows part of my main system, partly because SE simply doesn't - as yet - have strong or extensive enough protection for my liking, and - less importantly - because I find SE cosmetically clunky for my tastes.

 

But as you say; if your choice of protection isn't broken (i.e. if it's doing its job well), there's little reason to change.

Edited December 17, 2009 by Tezcatlipoca

[SOD'EM]

Thanks Tez, that's a good start;).

 

Thank God for Virus free torrents.

[locutus]

If you are worried, you can also run HouseCall - Free Virus Scan (it is web based with a small download.)

[pin1onu]

As long as you're keeping Avast Pro updated with the latest releases, I'd be inclined to stick with what you have.

 

Ostensibly, both programs do the same thing, and both do it well, but Avast also does boot scans (which SE currently doesn't), and is a little more robust in its realtime protection and scans, so you're a little more protected with Avast.

Agree with that. I use Avast (free edition) and have found it very good at what it does. I did run AVG for a while but got fed up with the false positves it gave.

 

Couple it with anti-malware/spyware software (such as spybot SD and/or Malware bytes) and a decent firewall (can't go past Zonealarm Firewall free IMV) and you have a reasonably well protected system.

 

Obviously you need to update your definitions (on the above) and scan your PC as well. Both activities need to be done regularly.

[ashmk]

I run Avast free. its great and the best there is in my opinion.