Over the years I have used both the name-brand, well-known antivirus software programs on the market.  They both did an adequate job of protecting my computer.  However, they both bombarded me with so many nag screens constantly trying to up sell me on their other products that I really had no interest in that I finally had enough and went in search of some other product that was reputable.  While listening to a local talk radio show, the host, a local computer geek recommended AVG Free Antivirus software.  Upon checking at the AVG web site I found they truly did provide you with basic antivirus and antispyware protection for Windows and that it is available to download for free.

After checking around the internet and reading more about AVG, I found that it was a well-respected product that is used by millions of people.  Still somewhat skeptical, I asked the head of the IT department where I work if he had ever heard of free antivirus software.  He immediately mentioned AVG and pointed out that our corporate machines are protected by AVG business products.  He also told me that he used AVG Free on his home computer.  That was a good enough recommendation for me, so I went to the AVG web site and downloaded and installed the free antivirus edition and have been extremely pleased with the results.  Just follow the steps below and your computer will be protected in no time.

Go to the AVG web site and click the 'Get it now!' button.
If you choose to use the Free version, scroll to the bottom of the page and click the 'Download' button.  You will be taken to the download page where you will click on the 'Download Now' button.  This will take you to the CNET Download page for AVG Free Edition.  Again, click the 'Download Now' button.
Your download will begin and ask you to 'Save' the file.  Save the file to a location where you will easily be able to locate it after the download.
After the download completes, click on the file to begin the installation.  Installation is pretty straight forward.  Just follow the directions and you have scored yourself some pretty good free antivirus software.

Just to let you know, I am not affiliated with AVG in any way and understand there are a couple of other free antivirus software products worth mentioning.  Avira AntiVir Personal Edition Classic reliably protects your private computer against dangerous viruses, worms, Trojans and costly dialers.  Also, Avast Home Edition is a full-featured antivirus package designed exclusively for home, non-commercial users.  I guess these products may not be for everyone, but for my personal, home use the one I chose is doing what it is meant to do.

Regardless of the type of antivirus software you use, none of it will be worth diddly if you do not keep it updated.  Most all, and I would feel comfortable in saying all, antivirus programs should have an option to automatically check daily for updates to their protection files.  They should also provide the same option to periodically scan your system for viruses.  I keep this option set to operate daily also.  If you are using some sort of antivirus software that does not provide you with these options, then I would seek out another program as soon as possible