Any suggestions for antivirus?

[Rufio]

I know computers should have antivirus. I have a Windows computer. Which antivirus should I go for?

Also I am thinking about buying a Mac or Linux. Does Mac or Linux require antivirus to stay safe?

[Simon H]

I use Microsoft Security Essentials, its free and does a reasonable job.

The biggest thing you need to remember with antivirus software is that it’s just a small part of your security and it can’t always protect you from yourself. If you click on a link to install malware then it likely will get past your antivirus whichever one you choose.

Things like making sure you know who sent you an email attachment before opening it, keeping your system updated, backing up and being careful what you install are just as important if not more so than which antivirus you choose.

Macs are not immune to viruses and malware they are just not targeted in the same way windows computers are so there is less of a risk. However I would still install antivirus just to be on the safe side and as I said above be careful what you click on.

[Brian]

Definitely Microsoft Security Essentials for Windows XP through Windows 7. http://www.groovypost.com/howto/news/microsoft-security-essentials-2-0-the-only-windows-antivirus-you-need/

Windows 8 has Antivirus and malware security software built in by default.http://www.groovypost.com/howto/windows-defender-windows-8-microsoft-security-essentials/

Mac can definitely get viruses and other types of malicious code. One program you might want to try is Avast for OS X -- http://www.avast.com/free-antivirus-mac

And you might also want to check out this article: Five Ways to Keep Your Mac Secure:http://www.groovypost.com/howto/five-ways-secure-mac/

[Austin]

The best antivirus programs are listed here:

http://www.av-comparatives.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/avc_prot_201305en.pdf

If you are Windows 8 it includes security automatically, by Microsoft. If you are on Windows 7 you can grab Microsoft Security Essentials for free.

Generally speaking, Windows Defender / Security Essentials (Microsoft's solution) is just as good as the paid programs. Well, paid programs may offer a 5% improvement in security, but that is all.