Microsoft currently has 75,000 users beta-testing a new "Microsoft Security Essentials" service (
codenamed Morro during development) that it intends to soon provide free-of-charge to Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 users to protect their computers against viruses, worms, Trojans and spyware. There is a lot of skepticism about it, because Microsoft's track record at protecting users of its products from hackers and malware hasn't been all that great. However, Microsoft Security Essentials is a sophisticated protection service developed by programmers who know more about the Windows operating system and its vulnerabilities than anyone else, and a lot of the skepticism probably is being fueled by firms that charge for similar protection.
I am not recommending or endorsing Microsoft Security Essentials, because I am not participating in the beta test and don't know how well the service works. I am just letting forum members know about it in case they would like to try it when it becomes available.
This is the Microsoft Security Essentials home page:
http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/default.aspxIf you are willing to pay for protection, I think Kaspersky Internet Security 2009
http://www.kaspersky.com/kaspersky_internet_security is the best product currently available.
-Bob