Windows 7, Do I need an Antivirus program with it?

Yes, Windows 7 is much more secure than Windows XP, and I don't use a anti-virus with Windows 7. I use the Ultimate version. I have uninstalled and disabled file and printer sharing and uninstalled Client for Microsoft Networks. Also, I have disabled remote assistance and changed the group policy settings to lock out everyone. And I have disabled a couple of services that are security holes such as NetBIOS and Remote Registry and stuff like that. And of course, I don't visit websites that are infected. If you visit those sites, then you can get a virus in some cases.

Anti-virus programs eat up performance like a monster. If you have a 3GHz computer and install anti-virus software on it, it will run slower than a 2GHz computer with no anti-virus software! I have actually tried this.

The other problem with anti-virus softwares is that they are hard to uninstall. And once they expire, you get these nagging messages when you turn on your computer: "Your anti-virus software has expired. Please pay $50 to renew or you could get infected... blah blah" In my opinion, this whole anti-virus software industry is a fraud. That includes McAfee, Norton, ZoneAlarm and all that junk. They just want people's money.

I have been using my computer with no anti-virus software for over 10 years and only got a virus maybe 5 times. Each time I had to do a fresh install of Windows. I saved $6000 by not using an anti-virus software, and I say it was worth it!

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No matter what you are running, you will need an anti-virus program so that you are protected from viruses. I'd recommend either Avast or Microsoft Security Essentials as both are really good anti-virus programs. You can get access to free anti-virus downloads of the best ones available here http://freeavdownload.com/

Yes you do need an antivirus. Hmm, strange logic from one guy saying he has no antiviruses and perhaps had 5 viruses is that correct? That should tell you that your logic is wrong because no matter what you did by attempting to decrease the risk, you still managed to get your computer infected.

All computer and security experts advised strongly to have an antivirus - it's a must.

Those people are wrong. Every computer needs an security program, including one with Windows 7.

"bio" MS Windows has - to some ppl - extremly flawed security compared to a Mac or Linux. Not only do u need an antivrius you need a firewall, a rootkit tool program, a spyware and malware detection program etc.

If u want security move to a mac. Also u absolutely totally need to back up your files and the Windows OS.

RICK

those people are clueless.of course you need a anti-virus.windows 7 is very good but not immune.i dual boot windows 7 and linux.i use eset nod32 ,malwarebytes and hitman pro on the windows partition.the linux partiton only needs a firewall.get some protection as soon as possible.

Yah you can get Microsoft Security Essentials for free. This includes a anti-virus and spyware detector for your computer for free. You can download it at

http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/

As far as a firewall, you can use the built it Firewall that comes Windows 7.0 operating system.

yes i recently got a windows 7 laptop and have suffered many trojans and other virus' on my laptop if you do get an anti-virus protection get McAfee you get Anti virus protection, Encryption, DLP, IPS, firewall and lots more

Yes, you should run antivirus. Microsoft makes one, actually, which you can download for free.

Microsoft Security Essentials: http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/