Free software Free anti-virus software
Free anti-virus software
Security software, combined with careful browsing online, is the best form of defence from internet nasties. Check out our guide to security software for more advice.
The biggest names in security software are Norton and McAfee. Their security software suites have been big-sellers for years, and while they are both include a comprehensive set of tools to help keep you safe, sometimes a free anti-virus program like Microsoft Security Essentials will do the job.
Not only is this free, but like most free software, it is quite easy to use. This can't always be said of paid-for packages.
Below, we compare the performance of Norton Internet Security 2011 and Microsoft Security Essentials side-by-side. We examine their ability to ward off threats, as well how easy they are to set up and use.
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| Security software | ||
|---|---|---|
| Head-to-head | Norton Internet Security 2011 | Microsoft Security Essentials |
| Price | £24 | Free |
| Advanced parental controls |  | |
| Navigation and interface | | |
| Day to day operation | | |
| Security | | |
| Total score | | |
| Best Buy | | |
| Pros | | |
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