MICROSOFT OFFERS FREE ANTIVIRUS
 
Microsoft’s “Morro” antivirus, a free antivirus and anti-spyware suite, has gone into beta testing.

Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) promises to provide people with basic protection against viruses, trojans, rootkits and spyware.

Microsoft has been criticized in the past for failing to include free security software with Windows but that is all about to change.

 Windows Live OneCare, it’s first attempt at an antivirus program, failed to attract many customers and the pay version has been discontinued.

Microsoft is hoping that MSE, available as a free download from its site, will prove more popular; however, rival security vendors have questioned whether Microsoft can compete with more established anti-virus players.

"Early reviews of the beta are showing that it under-performs when compared to existing freeware products, and well below paid solutions," said security firm Symantec in a statement.

"Referring to Microsoft's basic anti-virus and anti-spyware product as an essential security solution is misleading. Consumers need firewall protection, web protection, anti-spam and identity safeguards," it said.

J.R Smith, chief executive of security firm AVG, said Microsoft's entry into the security market could "further confuse consumers about the inherent security of their computer".   "It's important to recognize that Microsoft's role in the internet security realm is much like your relationship with your trusted family doctor. They can help diagnose the problems. In addition, they treat many general ailments. In the end, though, they are not a replacement for a specialist when you need one," he said.

 The software is expected to be released to the general public by October, when Windows 7 begins shipping out on new PCs.

2