Q&A: Keeping the PC Safe on the Cheap How good is Microsoft's free Security Essentials program? Is it safe to just use that instead of buying antivirus software? Microsoft Security Essentials, the company's free security software for Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7, can protect a PC from viruses, spyware and other forms of malicious software. The program has gotten generally good reviews in some places and has been deemed to do a "decent job," although it has been knocked for "long scan times" and infrequent updates. You cannot beat the price, but free software does have its cost. Unlike a commercial security suite, technical support options for Security Essentials (and other free programs) are comparatively sparse, and sifting through online documentation and forums on Microsoft's Web site is your best source of help. Other security programs may offer additional features as well, like spam filters, parental controls and phishing protection. While the Microsoft Security Essentials price tag (or lack thereof) appeals to many people, there are other free security programs for the PC out there. These include Avast! Free Antivirus, AVG Anti-Virus Free and Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free. Gizmo's Freeware site, among others, has reviews of many free antivirus programs.