Impressive and free antivirus and antispyware package
Platform : Windows XP
Type:
Manufacturer: Microsoft Corporation
Size:
Rating: 4
Verdict: A great antivirus and antispyware program at no cost
System Requirements:
Windows® XP (Home Edition, Professional, Media Center Edition, or Tablet PC
Edition) with Service Pack 2 (SP2)
Internet Explorer 6 for Windows XP SP2 (IE 6.0.2900.2180)
PC with 300 MHz or higher CPU clock speed
256 MB of RAM
550 MB of available hard disk space (on system partition)
56 kbps or faster Internet connection (broadband recommended)
Readable/writeable CD or DVD drive (CD-RW or DVD-RW, aka 'CD or DVD
burner'), or external hard drive. (Necessary for Backup and Restore
functionality,
The launch of Windows OneCare Live Security Beta sees Microsoft attempting to
give Windows users an all-encompassing anti-virus and anti-spyware program.
Initially free, the integrated service offers anti-virus, firewall, backup
and recovery, as well as personal computer maintenance. The program acts as a
‘live’ web page that will work quietly in the background, alerting you of
threats while automatically checking for security updates.
The interface is clear and intuitive, with simple options to scan for viruses
or back up and restore files. The health bar lets you know your security status
and will guide you through the necessary steps when problems arise.
Microsoft claims that 70 per cent of consumers do not have anti-virus
software or do not keep it updated, so OneCare is specifically aimed at
inexperienced users who may not have the technical know-how or time to manage a
computer on a daily basis.
However, savvy users who are used to keeping their PC in check may find a few
problems.
The program will only work in Internet Explorer 6 and once downloaded will
not be compatible with popular anti-virus and firewall programs such as Symantec
Norton Antivirus and McAfee Internet Security Suite. Indeed, Microsoft
recommends that users uninstall all such programs as this may cause the computer
to lock.
Note: Although free in beta, OneCare will eventually become
subscription fee-based.