Answers to Everyday Questions : so whats the catch with free anti virus?

so whats the catch with free anti virus?

9 Responses to “so whats the catch with free anti virus?”

1. Casra said :
   December 2nd, 2010 at 4:54 am

   Avg free edition, no catch.
   Avast, no catch.

   They also sell pro versions and are hoping to make a good enough name that companies will buy it.
2. Fox said :
   December 2nd, 2010 at 5:17 am

   Free antivirus programs suck compared to ones you pay for. Wouldn’t you do a better job on something if you were making money from it?
3. Kirstin Kay said :
   December 2nd, 2010 at 5:41 am

   Well, reputable software, such as AVG, offer a free version hoping you will download it, like it, then buy their product.
   Some are scams, so you have to be very careful.
4. 1999.35mustang said :
   December 2nd, 2010 at 5:49 am

   some of them sometimes have a virus( i think)
5. You said :
   December 2nd, 2010 at 6:04 am

   Most of these free anti-virus programs do not give out the FULL version of the software. They only give you limited functions, usually just updating and scanning your computer.

   They do this to attract users/potential buyers to try the software, then buy it. It is just a market strategy to lure more people to buy their software.

   However, you can still use these free anti virus programs to scan your computer, such as AVG, you can scan, and update the program.

   Company’s also get money from the advertisements they place on the website.

   And since AVG is the top download on http://download.com they get a lot of reputation, which means more buyers.
6. burnt_glacier said :
   December 2nd, 2010 at 6:46 am

   Some people just want to stop viruses spreading and screwing up computers. You paid for a computer and the internet, why pay for an AntiVirus?
7. the_dadd_from_tn2005 said :
   December 2nd, 2010 at 6:56 am

   The free anti-virus applications are usually less-known than the rest. The developer is starting small by offering 100% free services (updates, etc.) in order to get known. Once they get enough business they may begin to charge.

   Others may offer a free (“lite”) version, as well as a subscription-based version. The Lite version may not include some features, but will allow you to update and scan. But the paid version may allow auto-update, full scan, full fixes for infections, etc.
8. tempo1 said :
   December 2nd, 2010 at 7:15 am

   They are basic stripped-down versions of the full “paid-for” software. Trying to entice you to buy the full version. Much more common with European software companies, than American ones.

   For most SOHO users or recreational computers users, free anti-virus works OK.

   But ya gotta keep it updated, at least daily….or else it can’t detect new threats.

   BTW, AVG…the highly touted AVG has horrible virus detection rates….its is the #1 choice of the newbie and the computer illiterite. Avoid AVG products…free or paid!
9. bbqmon said :
   December 2nd, 2010 at 7:39 am

   Usually the free versions dont have anti-spyware built in, but the pay-for version does. However, with free antivirus, and free spybot, you’re good to go. Antivir actually gets rid of more viruses than AVG also FYI.