Changing AV programs or???

I also use Windows built-in Defender. Free and top rated by independent security orgs. MS is well vested in security infrastructure that other app manufactures rely for threat info. Personally, haven't paid for AV software in over 20 years.

You don't necessarily get better protection by paying for AV software. Plus its only one aspect of overall security. Keeping your OS, browsers, and software updated with security patches is more important than ever. Plus knowledge of common hacker tactics such as social engineering adds another layer of protection.

Also, if you do the research, you'll find that some of the highly rated paid AV software have been exploited by hackers in the past. Some multiple times. This is particularly dangerous for AV software as it requires elevated privileges on you system to even work. Which gives a successful hacker pretty much free rein to do what they want on your system.

TenOC wrote:
Try Avast FREE. Works well for me. They have a paid version that I have also use but do not see any advantage.

I HATE Avast !

Mainly because it tries to install itself when Ccleaner (which I use occasionally) updates.

Second Chance wrote:
The Windows Defender security system (Microsoft's built-in system) has come a LONG way.

Concur !

IMHO anti-virus are now a waste of money !

Thanks to all that took the time to reply..Now I am loaded with information next year.. I waited to long to cancel my McAfee Auto Renewal option by 2 days therefore they took the $$ from my account and renewed me until next July #$$%%^..I contacted them with little or no luck as fine print states once renewed, NO CAN CANCEL WITH REFUND! Life will go on but next year I will cancel them and make sure Auto Renew is no selected.. Then Adios McAfee...

Windows Defender on all my PCs. Used to use AVG and McAfee and they were very difficult to get rid of completely (not sure I have even after years of trying).

I have used Windows Defender for years with no problems. In addition to the built in Windows Security, I now also use PC Matic VPN
Barney

Yup, Windows Security Essentials here, Windows Defender, too.

I use the built in Windows Defender and have for years. It has improved steadily, and I have always hated the 'bloatware' and ensuing spam I got from McAfee and Norton. First thing I do with a new computer is remove McAfee!

Try Avast FREE. Works well for me. They have a paid version that I have also use but do not see any advantage.

I too have relied on the built in Windows anti-virus for a long time. I augment it with the free version of Malwarebytes for those times when I venture into uncharted territory, which isn't often. In my experience, most dangers now days seem to be more like phishing scams and the like. Anti-virus software can't offer much there.