I’ve been using Microsoft Security Essentials since I could first get a hold of the beta release and this is even after paying for Avira Anti-Virus.

It turns out that after being run through the gauntlet by AV-Comparatives.org Microsoft’s malware program is getting some pretty high marks. Not only has it been given top ratings for malware removal but it has also been given AV-Comparatives.org best ranking in their performance test as well.

AV-Comparatives.org ran a series of real-world tests running through common scenarios like downloading, extracting, copying, and encoding files, installing and launching applications, and they also ran through an automated testing suite as well. Once the dust had settled, it became clear that not only is MSE one of only three products that both blocks and removes malware well, but it’s also very light on system resources.

Out of all the products tested, Microsoft Security Essentials was the best-performing free antivirus solution, and one of only two that received “very fast” on each of the real-world tests, earning it their top award: an “advanced+” ranking.

courtesy: Lifehacker

It’s nice to see some praise being sent Microsoft’s way for a change and in this case it is well deserved.