Is It Worth It to Use Free Anti-Virus Software?
The Internet is so incredibly huge that it’s not hard to picture it as being its very own universe. The Internet can be a big and scary place, but like outer space, you just need to carefully choose the tools that let you safely explore it.
At the top of the list is choosing reliable antivirus software for your home or business. Antivirus software is the proverbial spacesuit protecting you from harm, so it’s important that you carefully choose your product.
There are free antivirus software packages out there (hard to resist), but it’s important to know what you’re getting and to know and trust your vendor. They should be passionate about online protection and be available to troubleshoot and answer your questions after the sale.
Some free antivirus software products claim to provide Internet security, block malware, and improve reliability and speed “at the click of a button.” This sounds great, but we strongly urge that you exercise caution. Managing online threats is a constant task and requires technical skill and professional attention as the criminals who generate malware constantly change their tactics.
Malware and online viruses are designed to do one thing: disrupt your computer to a point where it will not function. Computers have reached the point where they are almost completely integrated into our work and home life. So the real question is, can you actually trust this to free software? Yes, you can!
Prophet Business Group’s network support team uses Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) to provide the necessary groundwork for businesses with less than 10 PCs or home-based clients. It’s an excellent first start as MSE guards against viruses, spyware, and other types of malicious software. Plus, it’s easy to install and use, and provides updates without interruption.
For clients with a larger staff, our team has chosen VIPRE Antivirus for more advanced protection, centralized management, and reporting. Online threats will never go away, and to be properly prepared, online security requires forethought and a long-term strategy. Prophet’s IT/Network Support team takes online security very seriously and is trained to quickly locate and remove malware.
Quick-fix approaches to online security are simply not the answer. Not what you likely want to hear, but it’s the truth. For these reasons, Prophet Business Group’s IT/Network Support highly suggests that you consider all your options before downloading free antivirus software.
Any important decisions you make should be made with a certain amount of research, but you don’t have to take our word for it. Amazon.com, arguably the largest online retailer in the world, has compiled many consumer product reviews for you to read.
Questions?
We know the world of cybersecurity is vast and can be hard to comprehend. That's why we have a dedicated team of Managed Services experts to help you along your journey.
Please contact us if you have any questions.
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