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I know this question is looking like an easy question or not a question at all but it's not really easy question. I'm not related to security and anti-viruses and just don't trust every provided anti-virus.

So first question is a real question - Is it OK (safe) to not use anti-virus at all. I know how to use firewall, usually I use only trusted connections and surfing trusted sites. My chances to get virus is really low. Even I've got a bit outdated PC and don't want to pay the performance for it. I can do monthly scans without having one installed - is it OK to be safe ?

If not can you recommend a good free antivirus solution?

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this probably belongs on poweruser – anthonysomerset May 27 '11 at 10:09
@anthonysomerset so I am confused power-user – Sholy May 27 '11 at 10:14
Superuser. Probably belongs on Superuser. – Bart Silverstrim May 27 '11 at 10:24
Superuser is probably a better forum for this, but I'll answer it anyway. – Anonymous May 27 '11 at 10:33
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4 Answers

up vote 3 down vote accepted

No it's NOT safe to run a computer connected to the web without any antivirus.

It doesn't matter how careful you are and how computer savy you are, accidents happen. The number of attack vectors grow each day.

And to only scan once a month means that your computer is able to send millions of spam before you find out you are infected.

Follow this link for AV choices Free antivirus solutions for Windows

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up vote 3 down vote

1: NO. No matter how safe you think to be in you internet habits you still have to run a virus-scanner.

2: No, Microsoft Security Essentials is not mandatory, but....

3: Security Essentials is one of the best free, fast and light-weight anti-virus programs so you might as well use it anyway. Of course: It does require a genuine Windows installation. I hope you have one.....

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up vote 2 down vote

  1. You should always use an Anti-virus. Even if you surf safely there are still attack vectors you can't defend yourself against. I'm thinking primarily of worms. A good AV is another line of defense.

  2. You don't need to use MS Security Essentials. There are a ton of free AV programs.

  3. Security Essentials seems to fit your needs. I barely notice it's there on the two computers I use it on. One newer and one older (Athlon64 3200+, 2 GB of RAM, Win7 Pro)

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up vote 1 down vote

Is it safe? Well, that depends on how you use your computer (I'd guess you browse, download applications, in which case, no, it's not really safe). For what it's worth, nowadays most AV's are less system hungry, are free and you will barely notice them running. For the small download and small maintence it just makes sense too.

This guide shows how to install security essentials and other information regarding viruses. Security Essentials is a solid AV.

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