Microsoft Security Essentials

Popular programs in Anti-virus

What is Microsoft Security Essentials

Microsoft Security Essentials protects your computers from common viruses, spyware and malware. Genuine Windows home users can download and install the software free to protect their system. The 64-bit version works more efficiently than the 32-bit version. However, you must have a 64-bit operating system to use the software.

Key Features

Microsoft Security Essentials supports all versions of Windows starting with Windows XP. The software is also available in 33 languages and provides you with quiet non-intrusive background monitoring. Some security programs alert you and interrupt your work with unneeded notifications. Microsoft Security Essentials takes care of problems in the backgrounds and only alerts you to severe threats. The download provides protection against malware that can slow down your computer, use your computer to send and receive malicious communications and protect your data from corruption.

Performance

One of the primary goals in the development of Microsoft Security Essentials was to create a program that protected computers without slowing them down. Many protection suites use up a large number of resources and end up slowing down a system more than the actual infection. To circumvent this, Microsoft ensures that you only get alerts when a specific action needs to be taken. If you are busy or away from the computer, the program takes the default action to resolve issue and allows you to undo any changes made when you have time to look at the problem. The software runs extensive scans and downloads updates only during idle times.

Simple Interface

Microsoft Security Essentials doesn't require a masters degree in technology to set up and run the software. Upon installation, the software is ready to use and immediately starts protecting your system. When you need to do something, the software will let you know. Because it's developed by Microsoft, it integrates seamlessly into your operating system. Viruses, worms, trojans and spyware are automatically detected and quarantined to protect your system. It's the only protection you will need for your system. Some advanced users may wish for more detailed configuration of the firewall rules and advanced scanning options. However, for users that want to set it and forget it, Microsoft Security Essentials provides robust and effective protection that rivals many commercial antivirus programs available on the market.

Pros

• Automatic scanning and background updates prevent the interruption of your work.
• Real-time protection keeps your computer safe.
• Threats are categorized as low, medium, high or severe to let you know how the seriousness of the threat.
• Integrates with the built-in Windows Firewall service.
• Protects computer from rootkits that can seriously degrade the integrity of a system.

Cons

• The service doesn't provide advanced customizations and may not protect against all new threats.
• Full system scans may take a significant amount of time on large systems.
• Does not include a silent mode to quiet all alerts.
• Limited Windows Firewall controls and a lack of ability to fine-tune firewall settings.
• Software requires validation before you can use the program.