There are both positives and negatives to using antivirus programs. Many users will argue that it’s not worth the loss of performance to have constantly-running antivirus protection. However, anyone who has ever been struck by a computer infection knows the worth of a program that protects. There are numerous options for users as to which program to use and it often comes down to preference. Microsoft has recently released a list of those who are fully compatible with the new OS and a few that are in working betas. Here is a short list of the “popular” options available that are known to work with Windows 7:

Norton- Norton antivirus is one of the popular choices for pc protection. Now fully compatible with Windows 7, Norton will offer a host of different protections, including anti-spyware protection. Norton is very respected and proven, even those with an elementary knowledge of computers have heard of the brand. You may be overwhelmed by the amount of different options that can be available with the full version of Norton’s protection.

Pros: Proven product, A large variety of protection options

Cons: Cost, Is known for hogging system resources

AVG – Thought widely as one of the best free virus protection
software suites, AVG has always been respected as being a comprehensive package in virus protection. AVG has a very easy-to-use interface and offers plenty of protection options for free that most other vendors would charge for. Usually when someone asks me to recommend an antivirus program, I’ll say AVG, because of the price tag (or lack thereof) and protection that it offers.

Pros: Free for home users, removes viruses automatically

Cons: Protection against spyware, Adware and Trojan horses could be better

Avast – Another free product that is compatible with Windows 7, Avast is often compared to AVG because of its protection options minus the cost. One main complaint from Avast users is the lack of a scan scheduler, which is an option in the premium edition, but you will have to pay for the upgrade.

Pros: Free for personal use,

Cons: Lacks scheduler unless the full version is purchased

Kapersky– Kapersky Anti-Virus is a well-known and equally respected suite that has a lot to offer the user. It is listed as being fully compatible with Windows 7. The interface is very simple and does an excellent job of cleaning your system of problems. The main drawback is its price.

Pros: Very good protection

Cons: Pricey, lacks firewall protection

Avira Antivir– Making a name for itself in the “free protection” circles, Avira Antivir is an efficient, quick solution and uses very little resources to run. If you are looking for an excellent antivirus program with many options for no cost, Antivir could be your solution.

Pros: Free protection, Very light on system resources

Cons: You will be asked to upgrade over and over

To view a list of Virus solutions that are recommended by Microsoft, you can click on the Action Center icon in the taskbar and select Find an antivirus program online (important):An Antivirus solution is only as good as its definitions, so no matter which solution you use, remember to update your definitions regularly. If there are any Antivirus solutions that you use that you have found just as good or better than the ones recommended by Microsoft, let us know below.