Windows defender v Nortons.

[DanFlo]

Recently downloaded windows defender to see its capabilities, it seems ok and its free. I already have nortons internet security which is making my comp boot up slower and slower with all the new definitions i have to download. Is defender good enough as nortons to do the same job? Don't want to subscribe to nortons after 12 months, after paying a hefty sum in the 1st place.

[Elmek]

it may be free but it isn`t very good i`m sorry to say. there are better free spyware checkers out there. spybot and adaware for two. norton does slow things down a lot and again if you want a decent virus program and you dont mind paying for it go for nod32.

[Buenchico]

Questions about security software come up almost daily.

There seems to be almost universal agreement that there's no need to use commercial software, such as Norton or McAfee. (Both of those programs have a reputation for being 'resource hungry' and slowing computers down). The free stuff is at least as good and (in most people's opinion) probably better.

Windows Defender is rarely mentioned but, the few references I've seen to it (both here and in the computer press) seem to rate it highly.

The vast majority of the 'regulars', here on AB's Technology section use a combination of Zone Alarm Free Edition (as their firewall) and AVG 7.5 Free (as their anti-virus solution). This is then topped up by the addition of anti-spyware software. The most popular programs are Ad-Aware SE Personal and SpyBot Search & Destroy.

Links:
Zone Alarm
http://www.zonealarm.com/store/content/company /products/znalm/freeDownload.jsp
(Ensure that you use the 'free' link, not the 'trial' one).

AVG
http://free.grisoft.com/freeweb.php/doc/2/
(Right-hand link)

Ad-Aware
http://www.lavasoftusa.com/products/ad-aware_s e_personal.php

SpyBot
http://www.spybot.info/en/download/index.html

Chris

[Geoffro]

I agree with Buenochic about Norton or Mcafee they are resource hungry,I use Windows Defender and i do rate it.I am also one othe regulars and use Avg 7.5 Professional and have done for the last 2yrs its user friendly and works quietly in the background,i would highly recommend it,and my loyalty for renewing was a brilliant discount,to back this upgo for Adware se and spybot

[DanFlo]

Thanks for your response and advise, will check out what you've all suggested.