I need to get a Virus Scanner, I’ve been lucky so far, never had a virus after over 10 years of computering. But I’m downloading more files off the internet then before.
So, What is a good Virus Scanner, looking for one that will last me, and one that is not to expensive, say less then $100 (don’t know what they go for anymore).
Ok, got an e-mail saying someone replied to my post, but then the boards went down before I could read it, and the post was after the backup… So this would be a BUMP so it will be on the first page again.
I’ve been pleased with InoculateIT
it used to be free but I’m not sure anymore
It does a good job but doesn’t devour system resources
try
The posts that got deleted basically recommended the two market leaders, Norton Anti-Virus or Network Associates VirusScan (formerly McAfee VirusScan), and also had a links page for various other software packages, but I didn’t post that one.
I’ve used both Norton AntiVirus and McAfee, and I prefer Norton. It keeps its definitions very up to date, it catches everything, and it’s very easy to use. I’ve had some compatability problems with McAfee, but it’s still a good program. Nortan AV 2001 is $40. I think McAfee VirusScan is $30.
Jman
Shop around - I found Norton for $30.00, but they also had the same version, without the fancy box for $20.
< should be in IMHO but I will bite anyway >
I use Norton AntiVirus and I have nothing but good to say about it. I have used McAfee and had nothing but problems with my system continually crashing and other odd things.
As a semi-retired network consultant, I can tell you I have had better luck with Norton than I have with any other form of anti virus software. The only disappointment I have in it is the fact that it doesn’t protect your AOL mailbox.
Oh and as Lady stated, my father bought Norton at Office Depot or Office Max without the box and other crap for $20.
This software is still free including all the updates, which happen every couple of weeks. You can download it from http://www.cnet.com
Off to IMHO.
I’ve used both MacAfee and Norton; vastly prefer Norton. Installation’s a snap and it’s very easy to use and keep updated. Frankly it’s one of my better software investments in terms of doing what it’s supposed to with minimal hassle, and at reasonable cost. Just scrupulously keep current on the updates, scan frequently and it’ll do ya fine.
I don’t remember how much it did cost but it wasn’t one of those clutch-heart-to-avoid-seizure things.
Veb
Wow! My first moved thread, I feel so special 
Ok, so most people here on the SDMB say that Norton is the better one to get. Thank y’all for your help, I’ll go pick it up next time I’m at a software store.
One tiny caveat on that front…if for some reason you shop at Best Buy, anything by Mr. Norton will set off their exit security alarms. (Or at least it happens here.)
Just have your receipt handy and there won’t be a problem. They look in the bag, see the box, sigh “yeah, Norton” and wave you on through. It can be an exciting little flutter if your life is as boring as mine. (assume grin here)
Veb
Edited to correct idiotic typo; left the “c” out of exciting which left an “exiting little flutter”. Sheesh, was that Freudian.
[Edited by TVeblen on 08-11-2001 at 04:11 PM]
A few more suggestions (Norton, MacAfee and InoculateIT are all decent AVPs). It’s a good idea to have more than one AVP since no single program will catch all viruses. Warning: If you DO have more than one program, only run one as a TSR otherwise you’re likely to get conflicts. I run F-Prot as my primary, with MacAfee as a backup.
Command AntiVirus
F-Prot for Windows
Kaspersky AntiVirus
Nod32 Anti-Virus System
Norman Virus Control
Personal firewall (not an AVP) ZoneAlarm - free version available for personal use. I use this too.
Also, check out this page on Safe Hex. You may also want to check out the alt.comp.virus newsgroup for more info. Have fun! And backup your data!! And don’t open any strange attachments!!!
Thanks, I already use ZoneAlarm as my firewall, and I’m not stupid enough to open an attachment that I don’t know what it is.
I’m going on vacation next week, so I’ll probably stop by the software store after I get back.
I’ll second the F-Prot suggestion. The program can be downloaded from the above site and registered online for $25. F-Prot’s virus file is updated every few months; previous versions become inactive if the virus file is too old.