Computer security can seem a confusing subject. There are lots of different solutions and some software that only pretends to be a solution, while actually being part of the problem.
Fake Antivirus
Fake antivirus software
Also known as rogue security software, is software that pretends to be antivirus while actually infecting your computer. It will often trick you into installing it or install as part of another piece of “Free” software. Then it will alarm with lots of fake positive results and try to sell you a “cure”.
Some examples are:
| Antivirus System PRO | 360 Security | ANG Antivirus | AntiVermins |
| UltimateCleaner | Antivirus 360 | Antivirus Master | AntiVirus Gold |
| Antivirus XP 2010 | VirusMelt | WinHound | Antivirus 2010 |
| Antivirus Pro 2017 | SysGuard | Dr Guard | SpywareStrike |
Generally avoid free software you do not know and be especially wary of software that seems to appear on your computer as “a favour”.
Is There any Good Free Antivirus Software?
The good news is that, yes, there is. Should you use it? You need to decide how much you use the internet. The difference between paid and free antivirus software is simply the speed that they get updated. The way a virus spreads is, first the writer of the virus releases it onto the internet, then the Antivirus writers discover it and write a fix, then they update their antivirus software on your computer. Now your computer will recognise that virus and kill it. So there is a window of opportunity for the virus writer between releasing the virus and your computer getting updated. Paid for Antivirus gets updated very quickly, usually within minutes, whereas free Antivirus probably only gets updated once a day. So if you just go on for quick browsing and to pick up your emails then the free version will be all you need.
Antivirus or Internet Security?
“Would you like fries with that?” Antivirus vendors like to sell you their all singing and dancing software, but to be frank you probably don’t need it. If you have a router from a reputable internet provider then it will have a built in firewall. There is no need for a separate firewall on every computer. Internet Security Software just slows your computer down with no real benefit. Yes your computer is “more secure” but then your house would be if you fitted Yale locks to every internal door. Getting from room to room would be a lot slower and the same is true of your PC.
Which Free Antivirus should I use?
There are a number of good free antivirus vendors. My favourite is Avast it can be downloaded from www.avast.com alternatives are Avira www.avira.com or AVG www.avg.com. One other warning, beware “antivirus comparison” sites they are often just advertising for fake antivirus software which always comes out as the best.