Computer Security Programme

[jamesnan]

I have a new computer, and need to buy a security programme for it. I use it for basic computer stuff, searching, buying etc and also for my credit card banking, and premium bond account.
What would the suggestions from our computer literate friends on here be - too many options for me to choose from - at a reasonable cost.

[CheekyChops]

Use a free one, why pay when you can get the same for free. I use Avast but there is also AVG.

[Everhelpful]

Agree with CheekyChops.

[SlackAlice]

Go for a free one

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/shopping/free-anti-virus-software

Either Avast, AVG or MSE would be my choice. Double check with your bank, because some of them offer freebies of 'paid for' suites.

[HansUrbancka]

Certainly do Not pay for an Anti Virus Programme when there are a lot which are free.

If your new Computer is loaded with Windows 8, you will Not need to put in an AV programme because there is already an in-built one.( Windows Defender) However, if Windows 7 is installed then go for one of those suggested above. ^^^^

Under No circumstance put in more than a single AV programme because you will get conflicts which can be very serious matters.

Hans.

[Giggsie]

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows/security-essentials-download

[Old_Geezer]

I use Kaspersky, have done ever since a free one allowed me to become infected. It's possible they are much of a muchness free and paid for, but after that episode I was straight to PC World seeing what they had.

[jeffa]

"I need to buy a security programme"
"I went straight to PC World"

Discuss and assess.

[Old_Geezer]

:-p

There are limited PC stores around when you need one urgently.

[Dodger666]

If you intend entering bank details etc, then you should download and install "Rapport". It's free and recommended by most banks. You can probably download it from your bank's website. This is from Nat West's website:-

http://www.natwest.com/personal/online-banking/g1/banking-safely-online/rapport/download.ashx

As for anti virus software I use free Avast.

[wendilla]

8 years ago I took someones advice and loaded free security . Had nothing but problems. You don't get something for nothing and be perfect. I have had Norton for 6 years and not had one problem. It goes back to the same old saying of you get what you pay for . And if you are using for banking put in proper security.

[wendilla]

also if your computer is new you should have 6 months security al;ready on it .

[SlackAlice]

I've been using computers now for about 14yrs and apart from the first year have always used free anti virus software. Only once been infected, which was promptly detected, quarantined and erased. The virus came from a 'friend' who had all the paid security programmes.

I used to have third party free firewall as well until Windows brought out a firewall of reasonable capabilities.

I agree you do have to keep up to date to make sure the one you've opted for does and continues to do a good job.

[theshedman]

Same as SlackAlice used a paid for one for the first couple of years, Norton, and find the free one, AVG, as good if not better.

[HansUrbancka]

I have never paid for an Anti Virus programme and have never had any viruses. At present I am using MSE (Microsoft Security Essentials)

Recently, I did get some Malware when I downloaded an up-to-date edition of Google Chrome.....a litter of 20 Pups. (Potentially unwanted programmes)
However, I have now got shot of GC and, with the aid of Malwarebytes (free edition), removed the PUPS. Google Chrome has become a pain in the posterior, so I shall Not be re-installing it on my Computers but settle for what has always been my favourite Browser....Firefox.

Hans.

[jamesnan]

Thanks for the answers, I have been using a free one on this computer, but this has become infected therefore I have purchased a Norton for the new one. I just wondered what others thought.