Introduction
Software viruses and malware continue to possess a threat to millions of computers across the globe, and Microsoft - whose Windows operating systems are often a target of security attacks - is this year fighting back with a software solution of its own in the form of Microsoft Security Essentials.
The anti-malware software, previously codenamed Morro and launched yesterday as a beta in specific regions, is a freeware successor to the soon-to-be-retired Windows Live OneCare.
With a final release expected to become available later this year, Microsoft Security Essentials will provide free protection to users of Windows XP, Windows Vista and the upcoming Windows 7 operating systems.
So, what's changed since Windows Live OneCare? Well, Microsoft is now taking a streamlined approach to system security. Think of Microsoft Security Essentials as Windows Live OneCare without the bells and whistles, it really is just the "essentials" and aims to act as a lightweight alternative to competing solutions that carry a reputation of occupying a large memory footprint.
Small, free and effective? Sounds promising, so we've decided to load it up and give it a whirl.
