Free malware protection options come in various forms. They can be applications that offer specific protection against specific malwares [example is the Brontok removal tool by Symantec laboratories] or software that offer protection against a wide range of malwares [example is the windows malware removal tool]. They can also be in the form of free versions of well established antivirus programs. These include free versions of AVG antivirus, Avast antivirus, Panda antivirus.
I have had to use these entire malware removals tool at one time or the other since I began using a computer. I remember the time my laptop was infected with the infamous Trojan.Win32.Generic!BT, I downloaded a removal tool from Symantec website and it was able to clear the malware completely. After that attack, I was advised by a friend to install the Microsoft malicious Software Removal tool which I did. I was meticulous about scanning my computer regularly with the tool. However, when I installed the free version of AVG antivirus, it detected some threats in my computer system which it claimed to remove.
This has taught me that there is no single malware removal tool that can offer complete all-round protection against these malwares. Although I am still using the AVG antivirus free edition, I am still skeptical about the protection it claims to offer.
The AVG Anti-Virus Free edition 2012 has features such as an active anti-virus that offers protection against viruses, spyware, worms and Trojans. The Linkscanner component offers protection against web-based attacks while browsing the internet. It also scans the network traffic for unusual activity and malicious threats. It also has an e-mail protection component that actively scans incoming and outgoing email messages for threats and also an anti-spam filter. It has an Anti-Rootkit component that scans the computer for rootkits hidden in the operating system of the computer system. Another component that is active on the antivirus is the PC Analyzer that checks the computer for issues pertaining to registry errors, junk files, fragmentation errors and shortcuts. The Identity protection component protects against identity theft and also offers privacy-related security. However, with all these great components, I feel that the program does not still offer total protection against malicious programs because when I insert my flash drive on other people's computer, other antivirus programs detect malicious content on my removable drive.
References
Microsoft (2012). Malicious Software Removal Tool : PC Security. Microsoft Safety & Security Centre. < http://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/security/pc-security/malware-removal.aspx> Accessed on 1st February 2012.
Microsoft (2012). Microsoft Safety Scanner. < http://www.microsoft.com/security/scanner/en-gb/default.aspx > Accessed on 1st February 2012.
Microsoft (2012). Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool (KB890930). Download Center.< http://www.microsoft.com/download/en/details.aspx?id=16> Accessed on 1st February 2012.
