Optimal anti-malware/spyware/virus software and their necessity

[StevethePirate]

Before I list the softwares in consideration, are computer protection suites even necessary when matched against freeware? If they are, which one of these 5 suites do you recommend and why: AVG, BitDefender, Kaspersky, MacAfee, and TrendMicro. I chose the first 4 because they were among the higher rated in Consumer Report; TrendMicro was included because I have had decent personal experience with it. Thanks for your consideration.

 

[bobcat]

You'll find the free products officially recommended by TS here:

https://www.techspot.com/community/...lware-removal-preliminary-instructions.58138/

 

[hughva]

MS Security Essentials:
https://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/