Security - what do I need?

Sunshine_and_Roses

I'm not sure if I have enough or the right type of security on my laptop.

I only bought it last year, rarely use it, but it seems so slow. Its an Acer Aspire E15, with Windows 10.

On my front page when I turn the laptop on, I have shortcuts for McAfee, CCCleaner and Malwarebytes. McAfee has just automatically run, and shows Firewall Protection - ok, Web protection - expired, Threats detection - none.

I am sure I have read somewhere that too many different security programmes can be as bad as none at all. Would this slow down my computer? Do I need to delete/update?

I have just had a pop up saying that there is a new version of CCCleaner to download whilst I have been typing this - should I download?

Also, I am currently a part time student and NUS member, not sure if I can get better security or reduced rates.

Any help would be really appreciated

AndyPix

Windows defender built into W10 , coupled with a little self control/common sense with regards to clicking on links in emails etc . is all you really need.
Coupled with a scan of malwarebytes now and again.


If i were you, now, i would completely uninstall mcafee, and run a scan with malwarebytes.


If you really do want a "named brand" AV then bitdefender free version would be my recommendation

Sunshine_and_Roses

Thanks Andy, working my way through uninstalling now. Would you recommend uninstalling CCCleaner as well, and just leaving Malwarebytes?

AndyPix

CCleaner has its uses and there is no harm leaving that installed.


Andy

Laz123

I would recommend CCleaner too but don't touch the registry cleaner. I've known it to break systems.

GunJack

Laz123 wrote: »

I would recommend CCleaner too but don't touch the registry cleaner. I've known it to break systems.

Really? I've been using it for years in domestic and commercial environments and never known it break one yet....

..I have, however, had to fix systems that have been borked by the use of other registry cleaners....

GunJack

clareski wrote: »

Thanks Andy, working my way through uninstalling now. Would you recommend uninstalling CCCleaner as well, and just leaving Malwarebytes?

Once finished the normal uninstall, use the specific McAfee removal tool to get rid of most of the hangover bits left behind...

http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/download/mcafee-consumer-products-removal-tool/

[Deleted User]

GunJack wrote: »

Really? I've been using it for years in domestic and commercial environments and never known it break one yet....

Me neither.

Plus, you will have (hopefully) backed up the registry, before running the registry cleaner.

wongataa

GunJack wrote: »

Really? I've been using it for years in domestic and commercial environments and never known it break one yet....

..I have, however, had to fix systems that have been borked by the use of other registry cleaners....

Registry cleaning is pointless. It will either break something or make absolutely no difference.

[Deleted User]

I disagree completely.

bsod

Bedsit_Bob wrote: »

Me neither.

Plus, you will have (hopefully) backed up the registry, before running the registry cleaner.

how would one do that