I would like some help with getting free virus and spy ware software to protect my desk top pc I run windows 7 could someone please send some links and recommed the best free software used but dont want any trials would like full versions thanks much!

Dani AI

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Several useful options have already been named by , , , and . The answers fall into two common approaches: a full security suite that runs constantly, or a lightweight antivirus plus separate on‑demand anti‑malware tools. The practical differences matter more than brand names: one real‑time engine for virus protection, a firewall (built‑in or third‑party), and a second‑opinion on‑demand scanner give good coverage without conflicts.

A safe, repeatable install workflow

  1. Create a system restore point and a full backup/image before changing security software.
  2. Uninstall any existing trial or overlapping security programs via Control Panel → Programs and Features, then reboot.
  3. Download installers only from the vendor’s official site; verify the publisher shown during install and decline any bundled toolbars or extra offers. Look for wording that explicitly says the product is “free” (not “trial” or “free for 30 days”).
  4. Install a single real‑time antivirus, enable automatic updates, then run a full scan. Add a reputable on‑demand anti‑malware scanner for periodic checks.

Maintenance and troubleshooting

  • Schedule weekly full scans and keep signature updates automatic. Patch Windows and browsers regularly.
  • If the system slows or networking breaks after a new security install, boot to Safe Mode and use msconfig/Autoruns to disable startup items; fully uninstall conflicting products and reboot.
  • For suspected infections that won’t go away, run an on‑demand scanner from Safe Mode with Networking or use a bootable rescue scanner; as a last resort, restore the image or reinstall Windows.

Notes and cautions
Windows 7 reached end of support on January 14, 2020, so the OS itself no longer receives security patches. That increases risk even with good security software — consider upgrading when feasible. For non‑technical users, prefer solutions that minimize prompts and automatic updates; experienced users can tighten firewall rules and run manual scans.

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All 5 Replies

I suggest Comodo Internet Security.

This is an excellent free security suite.

Cheers :)
PP

commented: You really are a virus expert +8

My suggestion is much better.

Microsoft security essentials, is very easy to use, and it protects you from all types of Nasties. Freeware to anyone with a genuine copy of windows.

lot of ............avira, avast, macfee.............all of them are supplied free version.

commented: Cheers and welcome back to daniweb. hope you will stay longer here +9

Trails only.

Firewalls:
Windows Defender (comes with OS, I don't like it)
FortKnox (this is one I love and recommend)

Spyware:
Spybot S&D
Ad-Aware

Anti-virus:
AVG Free
Avast
BitDefender

What I personally use:
Spybot S&D for daily use, though I remove it when extensively installing things.
FortKnox. Comes highly recommended.
Avast. There are better ones out there, but they're not free. AVG is very processor intensive.

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