Free Virus Scanners

[Rawhide]

Having and using an up to date virus/malware scanner is essential these days. Below is a list of free resources to ensure that you remain safe even if you can't afford to pay for a subscription.

Windows:
AVG Free (http://free.avg.com/‎) - Realtime and on-demand
TrendMicro HouseCall (http://housecall.trendmicro.com/‎) - Web-based on-demand
McAfee Security Scan (http://home.mcafee.com/downloads/free-virus-scan) - Realtime and on-demand
Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool (http://www.kaspersky.com/au/virusscanner) - On-demand
Microsoft Safety Scanner (http://www.microsoft.com/security/scanner/en-us/default.aspx) or Security Essentials (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security-essentials-download) - On-demand
Norton Security Scan (http://security.symantec.com/NSS/GetNSS.aspx) - Realtime and on-demand
Avira Free Antivirus (http://www.avira.com/en/avira-free-antivirus) - Realtime and on-demand
BitDefender QuickScan (http://www.bitdefender.com.au/scanner/online/free.html) - Web based on-demand (targeting a subset of web-based threats only)
Avast Free Antivirus (http://www.avast.com/index) - Realtime and on-demand

In addition to using a scanner above, Windows users would probably also like to install the following:
Malware Bytes Anti-Malware Free (http://www.malwarebytes.org/products/malwarebytes_free/) - Specialised targeting for certain difficult malware
Spybot Search and Destroy (http://www.safer-networking.org/dl/) - Spyware remover
Ad-Aware Free (http://www.lavasoft.com/products/ad_aware_free.php) - Spyware remover
Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool (http://www.microsoft.com/security/pc-security/malware-removal.aspx) - Specialised targeting for a very limited subset of malware

Mac:
Sophos Antivirus for Mac Home Edition (http://www.sophos.com/en-us/products/free-tools/sophos-antivirus-for-mac-home-edition.aspx) - Realtime and on-demand
Avast Free Antivirus for Mac (http://www.avast.com/free-antivirus-mac) - Realtime and on-demand
Avira Free (http://www.avira.com/en/avira-free-mac-security) - Realtime and on-demand


Linux/Unix:
AVG Free (http://free.avg.com/us-en/download.prd-alf)
Avira Free Antivirus (http://www.avira.com/en/download/product/avira-free-antivirus)

[pendell]

With all due respect, probably not Mcafee. Even the company's original founder agreed with the statement that it is the worst on the market (http://features.slashdot.org/story/13/05/07/2017203/interview-john-mcafee-answers-your-questions).

At my shop, while we rarely have problem with anti-virus scanners Mcafee is the one we have had the most problems with.

I highly recommend anti-malware bytes. I've also had good experience with Eset (http://www.eset.com/us/), though it is a commercial product.

Respectfully,

Brian P.

[SteveMB]

Another anti-virus option is Avast (http://www.avast.com/index) (realtime and on-demand).

[Cicciograna]

If I am allowed to give my 2 cp, I strongly suggest HijackThis (http://www.hijackthis.de/en), a very powerful tool to find and remove malware on the computer.

Do note that the produced log file is not really easy to read and requires a bit of competence: it's not advisable to simply mark for removal everything found since, for example, sometimes the program will mark inoffensive browser addons as potentially dangerous for their ability to alter the browser behaviour.

There are two ways to solve this issue: the first and most straightforward is to paste the log file in the analyzer on the site linked before and check the result, marking for deletion only the suspect entries (after a visual inspection and double check - if you know what it is don't delete it!); the second, and most realiable way is to look for forums where computer gurus dwell and ask for their help to check the log: many of them will be able to point out suspect entries to optimize the cleaning procedure.

[Rawhide]

Another anti-virus option is Avast (http://www.avast.com/index) (realtime and on-demand).

I thought I did get that one. Oh, I see, I got it for the Mac but not the PC.


If I am allowed to give my 2 cp, I strongly suggest HijackThis (http://www.hijackthis.de/en), a very powerful tool to find and remove malware on the computer.

Do note that the produced log file is not really easy to read and requires a bit of competence: it's not advisable to simply mark for removal everything found since, for example, sometimes the program will mark inoffensive browser addons as potentially dangerous for their ability to alter the browser behaviour.

There are two ways to solve this issue: the first and most straightforward is to paste the log file in the analyzer on the site linked before and check the result, marking for deletion only the suspect entries (after a visual inspection and double check - if you know what it is don't delete it!); the second, and most realiable way is to look for forums where computer gurus dwell and ask for their help to check the log: many of them will be able to point out suspect entries to optimize the cleaning procedure.

Good suggestion, but I'm not going to add it to the list. Far too dangerous to include in a list for people with computer experience as varied as our userbase with no additional support.

[drmike]

Just to throw my two cents in, may I offer the suggestion that folks should update their protection and then actually run the dang thing to check their system? Those programs may be "automated" and "real time" but I work with a lot of soccer moms and I can recall a few years back AVG having a screwed up update where you had to run it manually to get the latest version. I also recall a great number of times folks being hit only to discover that they were versions behind due to some unknown error along the way. You'll know it's actually updated and working when you sit there and click on those buttons. I always suggest once a week to my clients.

Malware Byes is only real time if you purchase it. The free version on Windows is manually run, both to update and to scan.

I have to weigh in against Norton's as well although due to their legal past and their inability to represent themselves in court. They've been sued a few times by "companies" who have taken offense over their "products" being labeled as being a virus.

thanks

[The Succubus]

I recommend NOD32 if you're looking for a good subscription virus scanner. Avoid Norton and McAfee like the plague.

[Rawhide]

Malware Byes is only real time if you purchase it. The free version on Windows is manually run, both to update and to scan.

If you look carefully, you'll see that none of those three additional programs have realtime written anywhere near them.

[Jimorian]

Another good tool, which is limited in scope, but very good for some particular problems is Microsoft's Malicious Software Removal Tool (http://www.microsoft.com/security/pc-security/malware-removal.aspx). It isn't a traditional virus scanner in that it only seeks out and cleans a selected list of difficult malware. It was the only thing that was able to clean out a browser/search hijacking infection I had that Malwarebytes, Spybot, and Avast all completely missed.

[The Bushranger]

From what I've read, the most commonly reccomended and highest-reccomented combination by IT pros these days is a combination of Microsoft Security Essentials and MalwareBytes. I run those, along with SpywareBlaster and Kapersky's TDSSkiller. Combined with AdBlock, Flashblock and NoScript in the browser, the only issue I've ever had on this computer so far was the one time somebody slipped on a MBAM update and made it report a batch of false positives (and that was quickly fixed).

[137beth]

I'm a fan of Microsoft Security Essentials because they give you everything without constant ads to "upgrade to premium." I use to use Avira, then AVG...and got annoyed with constant reminders that I wasn't being provided with the full protection. Then I realized that AVG/others actually have an incentive to give you worse protection, so that you will be more likely to upgrade to the full version. MSE is the full version for free, without a ton of ads, because they get their money from you using their operating system.
MalwareBytes is also nice, though.

[Ashgop]

The list left out Comodo Free Antivirus (http://antivirus.comodo.com/).....:)

[Rockphed]

Thanks for the list. Dare I ask "why now?":smallconfused:

Edit: Just saw the news. Working on cleaning my system now.

[Avilan the Grey]

The list left out Comodo Free Antivirus (http://antivirus.comodo.com/).....:)

Actually the list left out Comodo Internet Security (http://www.comodo.com/home/internet-security/free-internet-security.php?track=2737&key5sk1=3cfa0b4fae2a0714371819889eb7b3614248e040&key5sk2=2128&key5sk3=1369989597000&key5sk4=2737&key5sk5=1369989599000&key6sk1=&key6sk2=IE80&key6sk3=5&key6sk4=sv&key6sk5=SE&key6sk6=0&key6sk7=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.comodo.com%2F&key6sk9=19201080&key6sk10=true&key6sk11=b8ca2400787667adb6b7f93f84b28f67844a4841&key6sk12=2034&key7sk1=2&key1sk1=dt&key1sk2=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.comodo.com%2F), full interent security (firewall, anti-virus, sandbox environment etc) for free. Edit: On Demand and Real Time.


Edit: Just saw the news. Working on cleaning my system now.

What news? Edit: Oh okay. I didn't notice anything other than the "mark forum as read" link not working for an hour or so. Then the page went down for maintanence. My virus didn't react in any visible way (Avast Internet Securit, paid version).

[Rawhide]

It's come to my attention that I'm doing this wrong. Really this is very important program you should also chekc out this and you can use and downaload program in all format just by following some steps.

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[The Succubus]

Yeah, not a chance in Hades I'm clicking on *any* of those links, Mr Rawhide. :smalltongue:

[sana]

Might I suggest using Ninite (http://ninite.com/) for installing your basic PC needs.

It's a nifty little site that lets anyone klick together the basic programs you need and hands you a one button installer. Also Whatever you install from there won't bother you with tool-bars and crapware.

Run the installer again once every few weeks to update everything just to be on the safe side.

Offers several good virus scanners, but please never install more then one on your PC.

[The Bushranger]

Having more than one virus scanner can, indeed, cause issues - sometimes the scanners will mistake each other for threats, among other things.

It should be noted that (AFAIK) MalwareBytes (which, technically, isnt a virus scanner) will play nice with just about anything else.

[Rawhide]

Yeah, not a chance in Hades I'm clicking on *any* of those links, Mr Rawhide. :smalltongue:

Awww :smallfrown:. It just takes to the first post of this thread :smalltongue:.



The list left out Comodo Free Antivirus (http://antivirus.comodo.com/).....:)

This is not meant to be a completely comprehensive list of possible virus scanners, nor (for those commenting on personal preferences or dislikes) is this a list of recommended scanners. It is merely a list of ones that are popular and readily available. We're not going to tell you which one to install, it's up to each individual person to decide which one they wish to use.

That said, I'll investigate Comodo and may include it. It primarily wasn't included because it didn't come up in any searches.



Another good tool, which is limited in scope, but very good for some particular problems is Microsoft's Malicious Software Removal Tool (http://www.microsoft.com/security/pc-security/malware-removal.aspx). It isn't a traditional virus scanner in that it only seeks out and cleans a selected list of difficult malware. It was the only thing that was able to clean out a browser/search hijacking infection I had that Malwarebytes, Spybot, and Avast all completely missed.

Did not know that was available as a standalone app, added. It's also included as part of Windows/Microsoft Update, with a new version being automatically pushed out to users every month.



Having more than one virus scanner can, indeed, cause issues - sometimes the scanners will mistake each other for threats, among other things.

I would not generally recommend anyone install more than one virus scanner (not including specialised spyware or malware removers) in normal circumstances. However, advanced users may wish to install more than one for various reasons, and it is possible as long as only one is 'active' scanning (aka, realtime or resident scanning).

[Flame of Anor]

With all due respect, probably not Mcafee. Even the company's original founder agreed with the statement that it is the worst on the market (http://features.slashdot.org/story/13/05/07/2017203/interview-john-mcafee-answers-your-questions).

Let's give McAfee its due--at least it's better than Norton.

[Mono Vertigo]

It's come to my attention that I'm doing this wrong.[snip]

Okay, that made me laugh way too hard. You're the best. :smallbiggrin:




McAfee is better than Norton in pretty much the same way that leprosy is better than the bubonic plague, I'd say.

[bluewind95]

It's come to my attention that I'm doing this wrong.

Rawhide, I totally love you! :smallbiggrin:

[TuggyNE]

It's come to my attention that I'm doing this wrong. Really this is very important program you should also chekc out this and you can use and downaload program in all format just by following some steps.

That's awesome, and you're awesome. :cool:

[scurv]

Spybot search and destroy at http://www.safer-networking.org/dl/ Is something that serves me well enough, Although it targets spyware more then viruses.

[DeusMortuusEst]

It's come to my attention that I'm doing this wrong. Really this is very important program you should also chekc out this and you can use and downaload program in all format just by following some steps.

For a moment I thought your account had been hacked, then I saw where the links pointed. Nice one :smallbiggrin:

[Mr.Bookworm]

Microsoft Safety Scanner (http://www.microsoft.com/security/scanner/en-us/default.aspx) or Security Essentials (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/security-essentials-download) - On-demand

Note that Security Essentials won't work with Windows 8, if you have it. You need Windows Defender (http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/windows-defender-details.aspx), which appears to me to be the exact same thing with a different name.

EDIT: Also, if you want a scanner that's not always on for the Mac (I know some people get bothered by that), I used to use ClamXAV (http://www.clamxav.com/) before I switched to Avast.

[NM020110]

For those running one of the unix/linux/gnu-linux/etc. distributions, clamav (http://www.clamav.net/lang/en/) is a decent solution. It requires a bit of command line knowledge, but that shouldn't be an obstacle. Right?

For those that just want it from the repositories(where applicable):
<package management> install clamav //install the program
freshclam //get your definitions
clamscan -ir / //recursive scan starting in root; print infected files to terminal, followed by a summary

[The Bushranger]

Note that Security Essentials won't work with Windows 8, if you have it. You need Windows Defender (http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/windows-defender-details.aspx), which appears to me to be the exact same thing with a different name.

EDIT: Also, if you want a scanner that's not always on for the Mac (I know some people get bothered by that), I used to use ClamXAV (http://www.clamxav.com/) before I switched to Avast.

The ironic thing about that is that "Windows (somethingorother) Defender" is how the various scam antivirus malware things always presented themselves...

[Avilan the Grey]

Note that Security Essentials won't work with Windows 8, if you have it. You need Windows Defender (http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/windows-defender-details.aspx), which appears to me to be the exact same thing with a different name.

AFAIR it is actually the new official name of WSE. even for Vista / 7.

[peterdavidson99]

Great options for antivirus. My favorite ones are Immunet http://www.immunet.com/free/index.html and AVG http://free.avg.com.

[Kiero]

I recommend NOD32 if you're looking for a good subscription virus scanner. Avoid Norton and McAfee like the plague.

This. Norton and McAfee are as bad as any malware, and harder to remove as well.