AVG or Microsoft Security Essentials

[InFiNiTyTM]

So I currently have AVG Internet Security 2012. I'm thinking about switching to MSE. So my question is which one is more lightweight, takes up less space, and works the best? Thanks,

[articuno1au]

And for when common sense is working fine, but someone is being a sneaky ****er.. MSE! >: D

[Reacon]

MSE doesn't bog my computer down much, and it takes care of the occasional thing that gets past my common sense filter (because I like to do risky things sometimes).

Honestly, it's no problem if the detection rates aren't that great, since it catches the stuff that slips past you. All else I can avoid on my own.

[farmeunit]

I personally don't use any kind of anti-virus. You wanna stay virus-free, use common sense. Stay away from porn sites, poker sites, don't click on everything that looks true such as "You just won an iPad, click here to claim your prize". Things like that.

Common sense isn't a good way to be protected. There have been several instances of BIG sites being hacked and serving malware. Or for that matter, ads serving malware.

[~Johnny]

MSE doesn't bog my computer down much, and it takes care of the occasional thing that gets past my common sense filter (because I like to do risky things sometimes).

Honestly, it's no problem if the detection rates aren't that great, since it catches the stuff that slips past you. All else I can avoid on my own.

The problem being it's the sneakier virus' that'll get past you, and it's the sneakier virus' that get past MSE too, effectively making it a rather flimsy defence for people with a lot of common sense. Avira is probably the most secure *free* bet, but then again to be perfectly honest I myself haven't seen a virus on my computer for over 5 years.

[articuno1au]

I haven't seen a virus since I started with MSSE when it first appeared on Microsoft Connect.

I ran OneCare for a time and it was fine albeit fat assed :\

I also audit my systems before a format, which includes a full scan from Kaskpersky and Norton just to make sure. It hasn't picked up anything meaningful as of yet.

[remixedcat]

oh cool the cripple fight is still going on (grabs more popcorn)

[+longgonebn Subscriber²]

Been using MSE since it came out. I used AVG before then, but it has become bloat ware. MSE is great, simple and low of resources. I do agree the only issue with it is that the definition updates are through windows update, and not a priority update either.

[iMav]

Hmmmmm....

1. Computer User's just installing AV will never protect his/her computer completely.

2. It is user's self consciousness, which will prevent his/her computer from getting infected.

3. If user is conscious enough not to do some of the following, it will save his/her day:

>>> a) By Not visiting and downloading suspicious programs / software just to try it out.

>>> b) Avoiding P0*n sites completely.

>>> c) Avoiding illegal ways to use software ( i hope members understand what i mean by this )

>>> d) By Keeping track of softwares running on their system.

>>> e) By opening E-mail attachments from trusted sources only. ( From known friends and office staff / clients / business associates only)

>>> f) Regularly moving suspicious e-mails to the JUNK FOLDER and BLOCKING the sender ( most e-mail providers have this features )

>>> g) DO NOT SUBSCRIBE for E-MAIL NEWSLETTERS from unknown websites / companies ( better don't subscribe for this at all )

4. This are some basic things i can think of at this time.

[Aergan]

MSE, they haven't added any critical Windows system files to their definition list yet.

[Andre S. Veteran]

The best anti-virus is no anti-virus. They cause more harm than good. Anytime you go diagnose someone's technical problems, the first thing you do is disable the A/V. More often than not it outright fixes their issues.

[Vandalsquad]

Haven't used a antivirus for about 3 years now and never had one problem at all. I thought nearly all people on a tech site would be the same..

[ozgeek]

Having no AV is like leaving doors and windows open. People can get in and take things and then out without you knowing. If you keep doors closed (have protection) you can know the instant they try to break in.

Having a bit of protection is best than nothing at all. Yes, common sense is the number one but it's best to have a backup protection.

I currently using Kaspersky but when it expires, I will switch to MSE as that is what is on my lappy. All you need.

[+Warwagon MVC]

Haven't used a antivirus for about 3 years now and never had one problem at all. I thought nearly all people on a tech site would be the same..

People on tech sites use AV because they know terms like, zero day vulnerabilities, drive by downloads and remote code execution.

[frbubba]

MSE. I used to AVG but it became bloated. I have not ahd a single problem since I switched to MSE.

[iuerg87yerg879e0rg9erugjer]

another MSE vote here, being using it ever since it first launched and have never looked back.