security software. buy or download free?

cyberstar

I want to know whether security software you download for free are reliable as ones you can buy in retail shops such as Nortons security. Would there be any reasons I should pay for it when I could get it for free?

Reluctant_spender

Have a look at this link

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=36497

I have a mix of free stuff and paid for applications. My reason is that I do not like the free anti virus software, alot do but I prefer to pay for it thats my choice.

I have run A2 a malware scanner, free, and find it very good along with spyware blaster, spyware guard, Windows defender, this list go's on.

At the end of the day it's what works for you.

Mercenary

I am using AVG free antivirus atm along with various other programmes. I used to use (purchased) Norton, but it is somewhat of a resource hog. McAfee didn't agree with our wireless system.

There are quite a few well-regarded security downloads, but you haven't specified what level or type of security programme you're wanting.
Try some Google searches and read on tech sites and forums for the good and bad reports on available products.

You will find there are free Antivirus d/loads, Firewall d/loads, spam-washing d/loads etc but do your research and choose carefully as some can create more problems than you'd like.

cyberstar

If I buy Nortons security, would it get out of date in a years time? Would that mean I have to pay for an update version on an annual basis? If thats the case then I would rather go free instead.

skiddy2k

I buy KasperskyInternetSecurity. Personaly, I rather pay for the subscription than have any information stolen from my computer, bank details, passwords etc and having any annoying/dangerious malware (viruses/adware/worms) running on my PC.

Although the free ones are alright, I still rather pay for my antivirus if it'll mean better protection. Remember though, just because its more expencive, doesnt necessarily mean its better (in the case of some paid antiviruses)

Woolwards

Yes you do have to pay after a year my Nortons up for the year and I keep being reminded to update it.

Karen

spurs1234

Hi i have a couple of trails on this site for the paid ones you see in retail shops and the free ones too , try some and see what you think .:beer:


https://www.v-666.com

sco0ter

Paid versions will almost always have some advantage over free versions. Mostly because they tend to have better support and faster updating but free versions will almost certainly do the job. I left Norton because my router now takes care of any incoming intrusions now. I have not had one external threat register on Zonealarm in over a year and nothing ever on my 6 Months trial version of Norton Internet security thats on my laptop. I personnally just use AVG anti-virus to pick up any viruses that get through

s-j-cooper_2

I use Avast antivirus - a free one - and it updates automatically almost daily. I would recommend it - it notifies me of any dodgy downloads that I may have made too!

wolfman

If you do choose to buy, you only really need to look at AV and Anti-Spyware.

For AV, Nod32 and Kaspersky are probably the best around. Both retail at around £30.

And for Anti-Spyware, Counterspy is very good. It's about £10 and always does well in the tests. Do note though, it is quite a resource hog. If you have quite a hefty pc, it won't bother you much though. I believe this resource bug fixed in the soon to come v2.0.

For a firewall, ZoneAlarm, or Sunbelt Kerio Personal Firewall are great. I use Kerio.