If you are using one of the big box antivirus programs, you are paying too much money and slowing down your computer way too much! There are so many programs out there that are light on your system and many of them are free. The truth is, in order to boost competition; virus venders are putting everything but the kitchen sink in these programs. They are running anti-virus, anti Malware, firewalls that block way too much, anti theft, parental software and much more. Half of this you do not need on your system. If you have a router, you do not need a third party firewall as long as the hardware firewall in enabled.

Virus programs such as Kaspersky can slow your computer down so much; the computer is not even usable. The computers are so slow that we often have a very hard time even getting the program removed. In fact, a good portion of computer calls that we get is because of anti-virus programs. You need something to protect your system but if the program does not allow you to do your work it is essentially worthless.

 

We have seen many cases where big box anti-virus installs have literally made windows unbootable. I have personally had this happen with 2 computers running Total Defense. Personally, I like running a combination of Security Essentials and the paid version of Malwarebytes. This combination offers excellent protection and will not slow down your computer.

 

If you are buying Windows 8 or 8.1, Security Essentials is already installed on your machine when you buy it. If you get your computer at a big box company, you will most likely find a trial version of Norton or McCaffee pre loaded. If you uninstall the trial and activate Windows Defender and then add Malwarebytes, you have an excellent defense against getting infected.

 

I have seen many cases where computers have more then one antivirus program installed. This is not a good idea. You will now have two programs trying to compete with the same infection and all kinds of issues will unfold.

 

In short, do not throw away your hard earned money on anti-virus programs. Use either Security Essentials or Avast free and use the money to treat yourself to something nice instead.

Content and video by , Ross A Deprey from RingaGeek.com