What is the best free antivirus/antispyware program? I had Active Virus Shield from AOL, but my sign

became obsolete because it is no longer available. What should I replace this with?

Another question: WHY IN THE WORLD do we have to purchase and download anti malware programs on the internet? Shouldn't every computer come with built-in protection?

What is the best free antivirus/antispyware program? I had Active Virus Shield from AOL, but my signatures?downloads

If you want a free anti-virus I recommend in order of popularity, but please choose the right one for you (install only one):

1. AVG Free

a. A simple interface (easier to use than Avast! and Avira)

b. Can detect about 82.82% of viruses

Cons: low virus detection

2. Avast!

a. Real-time protection

b. It has an option to delete a virus once found

c. Can detect about 87.46% of viruses.

Cons: Too many icons and confusing user interface

3. Avira AntiVir

a. It can detect malware better than Avast and AVG

b. It's cute umbrella icon

c. Can detect about 94.26% of viruses

Cons: A very sluggish update

Never install Norton anti-virus, it entrenches itself deep inside of your computer and is almost impossible to completely remove. The best anti-virus available is Kaspersky or NOD32 (recent tests at av-comparatives.org).

If you also want anti-spyware and I would recommend getting Ad-aware and Spybot Search and Destroy (they are also free).