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Author Topic: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?  (Read 14370 times)

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MomNEEDShelp

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    Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
    « on: April 24, 2009, 08:17:11 AM »
      My Sony PC is windows XP and is 5 years old.

    I just had a new hard drive put in so I know my pc is just spec...no added programs, no virus control. (I have no clue how to do any of that)


    Is there anything out there that is free that will protect me from all the crap out there?

    THANKS!!


    Denise

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    Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
    « Reply #1 on: April 24, 2009, 08:21:48 AM »
    良し! いこう! いこぜ みんな!

    MomNEEDShelp

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      Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
      « Reply #2 on: April 24, 2009, 08:33:54 AM »
      I went there and see lots of stuff.  ???  (I am not technical, guys)  I am just lookin for something to protect me from viruses and spyware etc.


      Is there anything to just download or something or is it very complicated. I did check and I do have service pack 3....if that helps.


      DEE

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        Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
        « Reply #3 on: April 24, 2009, 08:34:24 AM »
            Go http://www.computerhope.com/forum/index.php/topic,46313.0.html
        They are listed there.

        No, that is not the correct link for free anti-viruses. This would be it:
        http://www.computerhope.com/forum/index.php?topic=57216.0

        And I suggest a firewall to go along with Avira AV(AntiVir). That is my free setup right now.

        Avira antivirus, free edition with firewall disabled and Zonealarm firewall. The reason for firewall being disabled is because it caused me endless problems and half the time, didnt even work.

        MomNEEDShelp

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          Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
          « Reply #4 on: April 24, 2009, 08:49:42 AM »
          Whoa. LOL  The last part .....you lost me.

          From your link, which do I use?  (Do I save or run?  I always get stuck thinking what to do when I se both options)

          One of those would be my AV........Where would I get the Firewall & which ones run best together?  (Meaning which AV & firewall)


          THANKS!!


          Dee

          lostcoast



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          Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
          « Reply #5 on: April 24, 2009, 10:16:46 AM »
          If you choose to save be sure you remember where you save to, the desktop is a good place to save to then you have to open the folder and find the install.exe file to start the installation. It my be better to just choose run then it installs right then in most cases.

          Its more important to have antivirus and also malware scanners then worrying about a firewall, just make sure windows firewall is ON in the control panel.

          You may want to find windows help and support with the Start Programs button the same as you would open any program and study it for more clues on how to use windows and the options it has.
          Help has a handy search box to find issues related to what may be on your mind.

          You may also want to go to Amazon.com and search for Windows XP for Dummies book and study that until things start to make more sense.
          « Last Edit: April 24, 2009, 10:36:48 AM by lostcoast »
          I am  Moderator of Computerhope Chat, for live help and assistance please use/click Free Help in the upper forum toolbar.

          MomNEEDShelp

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            Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
            « Reply #6 on: April 24, 2009, 10:52:35 AM »
            Ok, I will save to Desktop but which one do I choose???  ???  The link provided gave like 5.


            Which is the one with the least headaches and maintenence?


            THANKS AGAIN!

            fbollard



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              Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
              « Reply #7 on: April 24, 2009, 11:16:20 AM »
              AVG is pretty good...

              MomNEEDShelp

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                Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                « Reply #8 on: April 24, 2009, 11:45:48 AM »
                Ok, now it's asking if I want the AVG security toolbar?  If by toolbar they mean an added toolbar at the top or bottom of my screen....I dont want it.

                I don't need it, do I???


                fbollard



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                  Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                  « Reply #9 on: April 24, 2009, 11:58:40 AM »
                  no, you dont need it... when installing, I think it gives you an option to uncheck that item...

                  harry 48



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                  Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                  « Reply #10 on: April 24, 2009, 04:05:37 PM »
                  hi mum , take out avg and download AVAST it is far better the knew AVG is not very good what other sort of security have you , harry

                  Broni


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                  Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                  « Reply #11 on: April 24, 2009, 04:18:02 PM »
                  Quote
                  AVG is pretty good...
                  Not anymore...

                  Mom...

                  - Avast! free antivirus: http://www.avast.com/eng/download-avast-home.html
                  - Avira free antivirus: http://www.free-av.com/en/download/index.html

                  - free PC Tools Firewall Plus: http://www.pctools.com/firewall/

                  - free Comodo Internet Security (firewall + AV): http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/

                  If you decide to install Avast, or Avira, make sure, Windows firewall is turned on, or use PC Tools Firewall Plus.
                  If you decide to install Comodo, make sure, Windows firewall is turned off.

                  IMPORTANT! Make sure, you use only ONE antivirus, and ONE firewall.

                  Geek-9pm


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                  Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                  « Reply #12 on: April 24, 2009, 06:25:16 PM »
                  http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/

                  ...  IMPORTANT! Make sure, you use only ONE antivirus, and ONE firewall.

                  Needs to be repeated!

                  Google



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                    Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                    « Reply #13 on: April 24, 2009, 09:18:51 PM »
                    Not anymore...

                    Mom...

                    - Avast! free antivirus: http://www.avast.com/eng/download-avast-home.html
                    - Avira free antivirus: http://www.free-av.com/en/download/index.html

                    - free PC Tools Firewall Plus: http://www.pctools.com/firewall/

                    - free Comodo Internet Security (firewall + AV): http://www.personalfirewall.comodo.com/

                    If you decide to install Avast, or Avira, make sure, Windows firewall is turned on, or use PC Tools Firewall Plus.
                    If you decide to install Comodo, make sure, Windows firewall is turned off.

                    IMPORTANT! Make sure, you use only ONE antivirus, and ONE firewall.

                    Broni


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                    Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                    « Reply #14 on: April 24, 2009, 09:22:08 PM »
                    Yes?

                    MomNEEDShelp

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                      Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                      « Reply #15 on: April 27, 2009, 06:37:15 AM »
                      Ooooo!  I never got the notice that I got new replies here. Sorry!


                      Ummmm........you all lost me. The last thing I did was download AVG. I see some say it's not good? Then I see other posts that I don't understand what you want me to do. Should I delete AVG? I do not think I have more than 1 antivirus & 1 firewall.


                      NEW HARD DRIVE. Thats all I know. Everything is from scratch so I guess I am in need of a few things. Not sure what the guy threw on for me when he replaced my HD.




                      DENISE

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                      Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                      « Reply #16 on: April 27, 2009, 10:15:46 AM »
                      If AVG is working for you then stick with it. They have added new features and (I think) an entirely new engine so it has had some growing pains over the last year or so but it is still trusted.

                      Bottom line is being safe is up to you, not your antivirus.

                      x2543

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                      Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                      « Reply #17 on: April 27, 2009, 11:05:44 AM »
                      AVG, AVAST and AVira are all free to use as is Commodo, the free version. As long as you pick one and have their auto update on and the program is installed fine then it's really up to you to be proactive to save your pc from problems.


                      Dustinator



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                        Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                        « Reply #18 on: April 27, 2009, 01:05:37 PM »
                        Avast has all ways worked really good but all the stuff you guys are saying only blocks half of the stuff. there is spy ware to I recomend spy bot at www.safer-networking.org.
                        So have fun and good luck. ;)
                        1 day I will get a faster computer.

                        harry 48



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                        Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                        « Reply #19 on: April 27, 2009, 01:42:56 PM »
                        the avast icon in the tray with the "A" says  , on-access scanner:7 providers(s) total , 6 running,

                        MomNEEDShelp

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                          Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                          « Reply #20 on: April 27, 2009, 01:53:36 PM »
                          My pc has been running slow lately. I am thinking....maybe it is the AVG?

                          Would that be a pobbile reason my pc is dragging lately?

                          I have a brand new hard drive so I know space is not an issue.


                          (I am not technical so go easy on me guys)

                          THANKS,
                          Denise

                          harry 48



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                          Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                          « Reply #21 on: April 27, 2009, 02:17:44 PM »
                          i found avg when the scan was working it slowed it up a lot thats 1 of the reasons i took it out , harry

                          MomNEEDShelp

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                            Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                            « Reply #22 on: April 27, 2009, 02:58:15 PM »
                            Ok.....how do I remove it???


                            And what do you suggest I replace it with?

                            THANKS!!



                            DENISE

                            harry 48



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                            Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                            « Reply #23 on: April 27, 2009, 03:02:27 PM »
                            click start , click program access and settings , ,click prog; and remove , this is what it will look like

                            [attachment deleted by admin]

                            MomNEEDShelp

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                              Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                              « Reply #24 on: April 27, 2009, 03:15:37 PM »
                              click start , click program access and settings , ,click prog; and remove , this is what it will look like


                              I am removing AVG, not adobe right?? Just checking. Remember, I am not technical.


                              What am I replacing it with??


                              Thanks!!!

                              x2543

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                              Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                              « Reply #25 on: April 27, 2009, 03:18:38 PM »
                              AVG is not terrible, it's useable for what it's worth if you get it up and running ok. But AVAST and AVIRA I hear are getting better.  :)


                              harry 48



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                              Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                              « Reply #26 on: April 27, 2009, 03:37:59 PM »
                              you can replace it with avast free  harry


                              http://www.avast.com/eng/avast_4_home.html

                              go to above
                              « Last Edit: April 27, 2009, 03:48:40 PM by harry 48 »

                              harry 48



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                              Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                              « Reply #27 on: April 27, 2009, 03:50:12 PM »
                              sorry your right use other topic my mistake , harry

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                              Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                              « Reply #28 on: April 27, 2009, 04:00:41 PM »
                              To remove AVG completely, use AVG Remover: http://www.avg.com/download-tools

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                              Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                              « Reply #29 on: April 27, 2009, 04:04:38 PM »
                              Quote
                              Avast has all ways worked really good but all the stuff you guys are saying only blocks half of the stuff. there is spy ware to I recomend spy bot at www.safer-networking.org.
                              Computer security is very crucial part of keeping the computer in good condition, so if you want to give any security related advice, you really need to know what you're talking about.
                              First of all, Spybot is NOT antivirus program, and it CAN NOT replace real AV program.
                              Secondly, Spybot is rather over its best days.

                              Broni


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                              Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                              « Reply #30 on: April 27, 2009, 04:12:00 PM »
                              As for AVG, you guys can argue until blue, but I simply know the facts, because I've been working with computers for over 20 years, and I was actually using AVG for many years until the version 8.0.
                              Since version 8.0 has been introduced, AVG has been having following problems (read me well, AVG still gives you good protection, and the problems listed below don't happen on every computer):
                              - installation problems
                              - removal problems
                              - updates problems
                              - false positive problems
                              - computer hogging problems
                              - messing up browsers downloading capabilities
                              - messing up general internet connection settings

                              All the above problems, I encountered myself working on number of affected computers.

                              harry 48



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                              Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                              « Reply #31 on: April 27, 2009, 04:16:49 PM »
                              i agree with your last post broni i had avg for years until 8.0 came out i had it for 3/4 months and nothing but problems

                              will that link clear out any traces of avg left behind as well , harry

                              Broni


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                              Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                              « Reply #32 on: April 27, 2009, 04:55:13 PM »
                              It won't hurt to use it.

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                                Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                « Reply #33 on: April 27, 2009, 08:03:23 PM »
                                Last time I cheeked spy ware is every were and it slows done your computer. And spybot is not past its prime much like adware.
                                1 day I will get a faster computer.

                                Broni


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                                Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                « Reply #34 on: April 27, 2009, 08:09:41 PM »
                                Quote
                                Last time I cheeked spy ware is every were and it slows done your computer
                                First of all, Spybot is NOT antivirus program, and it CAN NOT replace real AV program.


                                Secondly, Spybot is rather over its best days.

                                If you disagree, I'd like to know, how much experience you have with dealing with computer security issues.

                                x2543

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                                Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                « Reply #35 on: April 27, 2009, 09:30:21 PM »
                                if you really wanted a paid antispyware software, you can get Webroot Spy Sweeper. But else for free, get the programs  recommended here, namely Malwarebyte Antimalware.

                                In any case, if you got AVAST, it's got an antispyware component to it I believe and there's also windows defender, which I see Microsoft constantly updating

                                Broni


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                                Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                « Reply #36 on: April 27, 2009, 09:35:07 PM »
                                Please do not mix antispyware programs, like Malwarebytes with AV programs.
                                The poster will get confused.

                                shelby_vn



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                                  Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                  « Reply #37 on: April 28, 2009, 09:09:30 PM »
                                  Would that be a pobbile reason my pc is dragging lately?

                                  I have a brand new hard drive so I know space is not an issue.


                                  (I am not technical so go easy on me guys)

                                  THANKS,

                                  Broni


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                                  Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                  « Reply #38 on: April 28, 2009, 09:32:28 PM »
                                  shelby_vn
                                  You need to start your own topic.

                                  x2543

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                                  Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                  « Reply #39 on: April 28, 2009, 09:57:38 PM »
                                  Please do not mix antispyware programs, like Malwarebytes with AV programs.
                                  The poster will get confused.

                                  ok sorry, one thing at a time I guess. Get Avast or Avira installed on computer then we go from thereon. Firewall probably is second on the list, then third is malware protection  :)

                                  MomNEEDShelp

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                                    Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                    « Reply #40 on: April 29, 2009, 07:33:05 AM »
                                    shelby_vn
                                    You need to start your own topic.

                                    Holy Moly. I am so lost!!!  I know you guys are all pc knowledgeable but remember...some of us (ME) are just regular people who only use the internet for simple things. (Email, web surfing, etc.)

                                    I think I removed AVG and I think I now have AVAST since I see the 'A' icon by my clock.  Now what do I need?


                                    BRONI.........you awake?? I neeeeeeeed you.  ;D



                                    DENISE

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                                      Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                      « Reply #41 on: April 29, 2009, 07:39:01 AM »
                                      right click it and go to update and do both of them after one is done.  That way it will have the latest defs for protection.  Its so powerful that it even see's conflicer which was the major scare in April.  It was supposeably a trojan and a keylogger.  Takes personal info.
                                      Windows 7 RC Tester.  Working on it.  Your monitor says etchasketch on the side!

                                      If I fall who is there to pick me up now.  I stand alone but I stand as the gaurdian for whom I wish to protect.  The sound of my blade utters my name as you fall.  For I shall not move.  For those that forsake the very people are wosres

                                      harry 48



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                                      Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                      « Reply #42 on: April 29, 2009, 10:31:33 AM »
                                      mum you have avast , go to broni's post no  28   above and do a complete removal of avg do it 2 or 3 times , harry
                                      « Last Edit: April 29, 2009, 12:24:01 PM by harry 48 »

                                      squall_01



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                                        Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                        « Reply #43 on: April 29, 2009, 10:35:10 AM »
                                        I think that its gone as she isnt haveing conflic's with it.  Do what I have said tooooo.....
                                        Windows 7 RC Tester.  Working on it.  Your monitor says etchasketch on the side!

                                        If I fall who is there to pick me up now.  I stand alone but I stand as the gaurdian for whom I wish to protect.  The sound of my blade utters my name as you fall.  For I shall not move.  For those that forsake the very people are wosres

                                        Broni


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                                        Re: Any FREE anti-virus software out there?
                                        « Reply #44 on: April 29, 2009, 04:23:01 PM »
                                        MomNEEDShelp
                                        How is your computer doing with Avast installed, vs. AVG?

                                        I recommend, you get 3 more tools (you may have some of them already):

                                        - Download, and install CCleaner: http://www.ccleaner.com/download/builds. Get "Slim" version.
                                        Read CCleaner instruction here: http://www.jahewi.nl/ccleaner/ccleaner.html, and run CCleaner.
                                        Run it weekly. It'll clean your computer of temporary files, leftovers, and all kind of garbage

                                        - SUPERAntiSpyware Free Edition: http://www.superantispyware.com/download.html
                                        - Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware (trial version is fully functionable): http://www.malwarebytes.org/mbam.php
                                        The two above, are antispyware tools. Run them on occasion (monthly, or if your computer misbehave)

                                        You should be all good to go.

                                        Now, I'd like to make sure AVG is totally gone, so....

                                        Download HijackThis:
                                        http://www.trendsecure.com/portal/en-US/tools/security_tools/hijackthis/download
                                        by clicking on Download HijackThis Installer
                                        Install, and run it.
                                        Post HijackTHis log.
                                        Do NOT attempt to fix anything!

                                        NOTE. If you're using Vista, right click on HijackThis, and click Run as Administrator