After several betas, Microsoft’s updated free antivirus suite has been released. It has several new additions, which help to increase the security of your Windows machine. Note that there are a couple caveats if using Windows XP, most notably the Network Inspection System which requires Vista or 7.
Microsoft Security Essentials provides real-time protection for your home PC that guards against viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.
Microsoft Security Essentials is a free* download from Microsoft that is simple to install, easy to use, and always kept up to date so you can be assured your PC is protected by the latest technology. It’s easy to tell if your PC is secure — when you’re green, you’re good. It’s that simple.
Microsoft Security Essentials runs quietly and efficiently in the background so that you are free to use your Windows-based PC the way you want—without interruptions or long computer wait times