It has been two years that I didn’t update the list of free antivirus programs for Windows. Back then, there were 9 free antivirus that made into the list.
So today, guess what, I’m going to present the updated list of best free antivirus (in no particular order) application for Windows for year 2011. The applications that made into the list (so far) are Avast! Free Antivirus 6, AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 2011, Avira AntiVir Personal Free Antivirus 10 and Microsoft Security Essentials 2.
Avast! Free Antivirus 6
Avast! Free Antivirus is a well-rounded free antivirus package that incorporates anti-spyware technology, anti-rootkit and strong self-protection capabilities. It scans files quickly and does a solid job at blocking malware.
Version 6 comes with two new features – AutoSandbox (run suspicious programs in a safe and isolated virtual environment) and WebRep (provides reputation-based ratings for websites and search engine results). Other features include Web and Script Shields, Site Blocking, Behavior Shield, plus a completely redesigned user interface for easier scanning.
Compatibility : Windows XP, Vista (32-bit & 64-bit) 2008 & 7 (32-bit & 64-bit).
Download Avast Free Antivirus 6
AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 2011
AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 2011 (version 10.0) is the world’s most downloaded free security software for Windows. The security software provides basic protection for surfing, searching and social networking.
There are several newly included features and enhancement to the existing features. The new AVG Social Networking Protection gives you a peace of mind while you’re on social networks. The enhanced AVG LinkScanner provides real-time protection while surfing the web. It checks web pages in real time before you visit them and shows safety ratings in your search engine results list.
Moreover, you can enjoy a faster running PC with AVG Smart Scanning which works while you’re away and runs in low-priority mode when you return. Last but not least, you can stay up-to-date with the latest threat information from the AVG Community Protection Network and AVG Protective Cloud Technology.
Compatibility : Windows XP (32-bit & 64-bit), Vista (32-bit & 64-bit) & 7 (32-bit & 64-bit).
Download AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 2011
Avira AntiVir Personal Free Antivirus 10
Avira AntiVir Personal from Avira GmbH is a freeware antivirus that protects your computer against viruses, malware, adware and spyware, unwanted programs and other dangers. The antivirus is best known for quick scan speeds and excellent malware detection and blocking. It monitors every action executed by the user or the operating system and reacts promptly when a malicious program is detected.
The new version of Avira Antivir Personal Free Antivirus 10 comes with a new graphical user interface that features a completely new set of icons as well as a new 3D navigation bar and a continuous background picture.
Moreover, the antivirus is now equipped with a brand new host-based intrusion prevention system called Avira AntiVir ProActiv. AntiVir ProActiv constantly monitors the behaviour of the system in real-time and looks for unusual events.
Compatibility : Windows 2000, XP (32-bit & 64-bit), Vista (32-bit & 64-bit) & 7 (32-bit & 64-bit).
Download Avira AntiVir Personal Free Antivirus 10
Microsoft Security Essentials 2
The new Security Essentials 2.0 comes with updated anti-malware engine that makes the software run faster and also smarter at detecting security hazards. The software also now ties in with Windows Firewall. You can now turns the firewall on or off from the security software.
Moreover, the new version integrates with Internet Explorer to detect Web-based threats and can watch out for malware coming in through a network.
Note : Your computer must run genuine Windows to install Microsoft Security Essentials.
Compatibility : Windows XP, Vista (32-bit & 64-bit) & 7 (32-bit & 64-bit).