In a limited (very short window) public beta release just a few months ago, Microsoft introduced it’s predecessor to their paid antivirus program, OneCare . The team has been very active updating not only the core product but also releasing new virus definitions (almost daily) to beta testers using XP, Vista, and the Windows 7 RC and RTM. Known as Microsoft Security Essentials , the new program is not intended to be a replacement for commercially available products but rather to “provide comprehensive anti-malware protection from threats including viruses, spyware, rootkits, Trojans, and other emerging threats in a single lightweight anti-malware solution”. The program so far has been effective and uses a minimal amount of system resources and sports a clean and easy-to-use interface (pictured below): In a letter to beta testers just a few hours ago, Microsoft asked that everyone update to the latest core product (version 1.0.1500.0) prior to the public release ‘in a few weeks’ . It seems likely that the launch of Security Essentials is being timed close to, or just before the full public release of Windows 7 on October 22nd. Additional information on Microsoft Security Essentials can be found on the original page launch page here along with links to a few open forums. (Note: The download link in non-functional at this time). Members of Microsoft Connect can also access an information channel.

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