To have or not to have anti-virus software

[Tired48]

Not sure were to post this question.

Anyway, have read were two different authors of Windows books say you do not need to have anti-virus software.  They both wrote that Windows constantly checks for viruses. 

Searching on the internet find that the answer is no but yes or that you do not need it but yet you should get it to be safe.

Have used Norton for several years and it has saved my proverbial bacon a couple of times.  When I got this HP with Windows 11 it had a trial version of McAfee.  Which I removed because Norton had already charged my credit card, so I downloaded Norton onto this HP.  The last three years have not been happy with Norton because they want to sell more software and bug you each time a scan is performed.  The package I get no longer has the utilities I use to get.  Now you have to buy another package for utilities.

Wondering what others think of Mcaffee versus Norton.  Or should I have either one?

[Bill_To]

Hi @Tired48 

I also have this internal debate from time to time.

Have checked Windows Security against paid for security solutions. Windows Security (WS) gets respectable security ratings. Ransomware effectiveness is sometimes questionable.

Ransomware cloud detection (internet connection) fares better as compared to ransomware detection and cleaning rates when the PC is offline.

Never had any problems using WS for prolonged periods of time on either W10 or W11. I have also used Bitdefender, Trend Micro, and ESET Security over the years.

Multiple/redundant offline system image backups are a must do. Also verify the system image backups can be restored to the system drive.  Use Secure Boot and TPM to mitigate low level firmware infections.

Don't store any sensitive data or login info on your PCs. Also use a dedicated email account for financial stuff.

My router uses Trend Micro perimeter and device security, in addition to a hardware firewall, for additional peace of mind.

Try to use a multi-layered defense to keep the bad actors out.

This strategy seems to be working in my situation. Haven't been bit by a bug since 1997 (IE ActiveX control days).

The bad actors will get into your network if you are a target.

Regards

[Tired48]

One of the problems I have is that the anti-virus software does a scan and finds all these issues.

Then I wonder.  So, they want you to buy more protection to resolve issues:  Software updates, outdated drivers.  $45 to upgrade.

Why can I not get these updates?

[Bill_To]

Hi @Tired48 

Previous correspondence in this Forum dates back to June 2023.

I don't know what to tell you.

Some free Anti-Virus software could be a scam. 

What A-V software are you now using? Did you pay for it?

Record the programs needing updates. Go to each vendor's software site to install the updates.

Regards