What are some good free virus protectors?

[Xmetalfanx]

Both of these top two scanners use to have similar detection rates, though (I have used it for years, and I am not "not recommending it") a few recent tests have shown Avira dropping. Avira is still better than most and I still feel loyal to Avira ... certain "lab tests" may say Avira is "dropping" detection-wise, but I still think its one of the best

Avast – FREE - ( http://www.avira.com/en/avira-free-antivirus )

(FYI, both of my personal computers use Avast, at the moment)
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As far as Microsoft Security Essentials is concerned ... http://preview.tinyurl.com/62prw64 are two links from resources, I have trusted (Langa, for years) that prove MSE have issues with viruses and Malware infections, that some other

May 2012 update: AVG is a tricky one..

I am not one to go solely on “lab tests” alone, though I have to admit from various sources, such as PCWorld.com... AVG has been getting better reviews (note: the 2012 free version).. I am not one to constantly knock a product, IF they are improving it.. I may re-evaluate my “not recommending AVG” stance... IF it is better now, I will gladly recommend it.

AVG from my experience with helping users, is problematic, though as I just stated, they may be improving it.

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Malware/Spyware related -
These are great programs to have, but do not confuse them with anti-viruses. AV's CAN detect malware and these scanners COULD detect some viruses, but my advice would be to have both types of scanners on your system. ..

Both of these are free and have excellent records at removing malware/spyware infections... they really are the two best best options

MalwareBytes ( http://www.superantispyware.com/ )

I have seen people with AV scanners like Norton think they are malware free and they (with computer issues) scan with MB and then they find they are loaded with malware.

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*** remember to change your passwords when you are infection free

Norton rates well in "lab tests" (see my comment about Avira above, concerning lab tests) though in real world situations (I am talking my personal experience).. it does miss a bit (not counting the fact that some others, like Avast may not be "perfect", though at least Avast or Avira are both 100% free, and that means you save money)

Do not under estimate "Common Sense" too ... it is a good "tool" to protect yourself

-Xmetalfanx