The basic edition that is offered for free includes popular features like the virus vault, outgoing email scanning and the creation of a back up disk that can be used in case the computer requires a recovery.
The virus vault is a valuable resource that keeps track of all the viruses that have been quarantined in the past and therefore can help to provide protection from these viruses in the future. This database of viruses is an effective way to view the virus history that is located on the computer.

As an added bonus, the free edition is compatible with forms of Outlook to scan outgoing emails and ensure that attachments are virus-free before being opened, to further protect the personal computer.

As a basic version, it can provide adequate protection for the computer, without the extras that come along with many paid versions. Although there are features lacking, it is a free version and therefore one of the most cost effective virus programs which is available for quick download and instant protection on the internet.
Unlike many other free antivirus programs, AVG free edition creates a recovery disk that can be saved to a folder and burned to the CD.

Therefore, the computer is protected in the event that a harmful virus attacks the entire system and it must be recovered. This bonus adds even more value to the free edition, making it a powerful addition to the personal computer.

The edition is user-friendly, easy to learn and has an interactive scanning center that can be easily accessed through the tray icons.
From the moment that the free software is installed and protection begins, updates are available to be downloaded to ensure that the virus protection remains current and protects the computer from harmful programs.

What are some of the most popular free antivirus programs that are available on the internet for download?

AVG Free Edition is one of the most popular antivirus software programs that can be found on the internet that is completely free of charge. This antivirus and anti-spyware program can be downloaded within minutes and begin to protect the computer while browsing on the internet. The basic protection is offered to consumers that download the free version and can protect the computer against threats, viruses and spyware. A paid edition is also available which offers additional comprehensive protection against viruses.

Free anti-virus programs will offer basic protection over the personal computer, but may not offer the comprehensive protection that is desired for full protection against threats and spy-ware, ad-ware and other types of harmful viruses that can leave the personal computer and individual information sensitive.

Using free antivirus programs is an effective way to offer temporary protection for the personal computer against threats. These software programs can be an effective way to cover a lapse in membership with a paid antivirus program or even offer additional coverage to the computer. As the free antivirus programs come without a charge to the credit card, it is worth a try, as the consumer will have nothing to lose.

If you are seeking comprehensive coverage against potential harmful threats to the personal computer, you may want to seek paid antivirus programs but free programs are sufficient for short term use, or people that do not use the computer very often.