More Than One Antivirus Program? - Comments Page 1

Bob - I've been using AVAST FREE 4.8 successfully and recently updated all three of my machines running XP SP3 to AVAST FREE 5.0. Two of my machines are fine, but the main one has given me repeated BSODs. Have you heard of this problem? I went back to 4.8 on that machine and it seems to run fine now. Any other suggestions?

This issue is the most important security question I have had for a long time.I have read many PC experts opinions on this. Many have changed their minds over time.I've gleaned this fact and hold to it.Since all paid for malware,spam,virus systems are constantly working in the background of course 2 would clash.But if you have a system that does it all whether you are scanning or not,and then you add a system like Free Malwarebytes which doesn't work when not spamming,this problem is moot.Make sure its the free version.

Best PC security...at $0.00
http://ezekielk.tblog.com/post/1970050664

Getting rid of Norton or MacAfee software is a bit more difficult than that! Norton offers a free "remover" on their web site.

Hello, Bob. I've never seen you mention this program, but I've been using Webroot Antivirus with Antispyware for several years. I've found it to be excellent. It does take a long time to load on startup, but it keeps my computer clean without being too obtrusive and their tech support is first-class. Do you have any feedback on this app?

I've always understood that the issue was RUNNING two or more antivirus apps at the same time. I've long made a habit of having a second program installed and updated but not running. Occasionally, I'll kill the mainstay (off line) and scan with the other for a 'second opinion.' Never had a problem that I know of.

Now comes an uber-class of anti-malware programs that will not even install unless you remove every vestige of your AV. Why?

EDITOR'S NOTE: I can't see a problem with doing what you suggest. Which program did you find that wanted you to remove the existing AV?

What about Microsoft Security Essentials? It came installed on my newest PC and our computer guru suggested I give it a try.

EDITOR'S NOTE: See http://askbobrankin.com/microsoft_security_essentials.html

I've used them all - Norton, McAfee, Trend Micro, AVG, Avast and Vipre. First, I wouldn't use Symantec or McAfee if they were 100% free and fully functional. 10+ years ago, they were great. Now they're bloatware. The others are OK, but keep getting "bloatier." Vipre is fantastic. I also use Prevx as well.

To the issue of using more than one.... YES! As long as they're not hogs as mentioned above. Most sources claim antivirus/spyware/malware programs are only 80% effective at best. So, as long as they're not tripping over each other and you have a half-way decent system (p4 running at 3+GHz with 1+GB RAM), it shouldn't be a problem.

I am not as computer-knowledgeable as most of your readers and am always looking for more info.
I se Norton 360 for my basic protection, but in addition, for anti-malware I use rhw paid version of Spyware Doctor and the free version of Ad-Aware. I have also been thinking of adding Webroot's Spy Sweeper (the trial version came up with detections that the others did not). Is my current protection overkill, self-destructive overkill, simply adequate, or what? I would appreciate hearing from your other readers as well.
Thank you.

Maybe someone can help with this. Last time I renewed my Norton subscription I was offered the oportunity to upgrade from Norton Antivirus to Norton 360 at a very attractive price. The problem is that now when I start my computer two instances of Norton Updater seem to run simulteneously, and my startup takes forever. I don't want to kill daily update checks completely, but I can't seem to find a way to stop one or the other.

Hello: I am using AVG free anti-virus and superantivirus program[9.95 a year] and my question is this: do I need also free anti-malwarebytes program also? I get every day adware tracking cookies when I manually scan my pc..is this a normal thing? I notice slow startup of email window and sometimes the internet as well.. I usually delete all unknown emails I get. Just concerned with malware and adware at moment.