A No-brainer Way of Security (Part 1)

Computer in today’s world is part and parcel of almost everyone’s life. From playing games, learning to cook or plant a tree, to paying electrical bills, nobody can avoid computer. However, as a matter of fact, I dare to say that most of us are lazy enough to ignore computer security issues. It’s understandable as security software can somehow be too complicated and confusing to use. Nobody likes difficult things, especially “ordinary” users like you and me. This session is specially written for users who prefer the No-Brainer way of using their pc.

Below is the first essential software that can help you protect your pc from cyber invaders.

The most important software would be the antivirus software. There are many security software available in the market, but which is the right one? When I say No-brainer, I really mean something extremely simple to use for average users.

I would recommend Microsoft Security Essential (MSE), a free antivirus software which is available for free download for original Windows users. Some might think that I am out of my mind, but I can ensure you that I’ve done enough of testing to confirm its credibility. The reason of my choice is simple; this is one of the few antivirus software that doesn’t require you to learn any part of it before you can start using it. The installation procedure is particularly easy, and you don’t have to call your IT savvy friends or relatives for a few times just to ask them which button to click next. The installation procedure is straightforward, with no extra toolbar or hidden traps that might threaten your privacy, except that it will request your permission to join the customer experience improvement programme. However, you can opt out of this request during the installation (even if you forget to deselect this column, it doesn’t really give any harm to your computer, don’t worry). The MSE software engineers are very thoughtful to take the initiative to offer turning on your windows firewall if it is not turned on, this can ensure your web browsing journey to safe and sound.  It only takes few clicks to finish the installation, and at the end of the installation, it will ask your permission to scan for potential threats right after the virus and spyware definition is updated. You can deselect this option if you want to, but a quick scan can help to ensure your computer’s safety. Right after the installation is done, the programme will automatically update and activate itself, which requires no troublesome user registration. With a decent speed broadband or wireless hotspot, your software update can be done in less than 5 minutes. The memory usage is acceptable, about 7334 kbps, when it is running in the background. When scanning is commenced, the memory usage slightly rises to 7495 kbps, it is considerably light in resource, which suits nearly all computers in different ages.

The virus detection rate is quite effective, even though not 100%, but still effective enough to ensure the safety of a family pc. I’ve tested on two desktop pc and two laptops, all using windows 7. Each of them responds positively, with no virus problem. Another point worth mentioning is that the software also includes an effective antispyware. I am really impressed with the performance of MSE, considering it a free software. Thus, I would highly recommend this software. 

In the next blog, I will continue with the next recommendation.