subject: Are Free Antivirus Software Programs Worth It? [print this page] Are Free Antivirus Software Programs Worth It?
If you are in the market for antivirus software, you maybe considering using a free antivirus software program to save money. Antivirus software can cost from $20 to $200 per year depending on the software and even more if you want to protect multiple computers.
The following are free antivirus software to consider:
Avira AntiVirus Personal
Alwil Avast Anti Virus Home
AVG 8.5 Free
Microsoft Security Essentials
PC Tools antivirus Free Edition
Comodo Internet Security
You can search for these software packages via search engine (Google, Yahoo, and MSN) to download and use for free. However, keep in mind that free antivirus software comes with limited features versus paid antivirus software. For example, Avira's paid antivirus will scan traffic before it's downloaded to your computer, however, it's free version doesn't.
Most free software programs offer little to no technical support if you run into problems. Some provide online forums or may charge you for telephone support as AVG does for $50 which isn't worth it.
Several free software programs will download items to your computer that you may not want such as toolbars and will try to up-sell you to upgrade by purchasing the paid version.
A few antivirus companies will offer free antivirus trials to give you a test drive, but the ultimate goal is to have you purchase eventually. If you want to pay for an antivirus program to get full protection, you should consider testing the software before purchasing. For example, Symantec-Norton offers a free 30 day antivirus trial. Trend Micro also offers a 30 day trial and Avast offers a 60 day trial before you have to purchase. This ensures the software program runs properly on your computer and you are happy with it before purchasing.
