Best anti-virus and spyware software

[rndn]

In your opinion, what software should I get for my PC. I currently have Norton 360, but it's just too much of a resource pig. I know this may be like asking what's better Toyota or Chevy, but I really want some advice. By the way, Toyota is better just in case you were wondering.
I have Windows Vista operating on a Dell PC with an Intel P-4 3.2 mhz.
Thank you in advance for your suggestions.

 

[cpubud]

Re: Best anti-virus and spyware software

i use avast on all my comps. its free works very well and is not a memory hog

 

[markh28]

Re: Best anti-virus and spyware software

I will second avast. Its a good AV. Also check out AVG Antivirus. They have a "free for home use" version as well, and in my opinion, a little lighter on the resources than avast. Norton is good, but yeah, its a pig. And a real PIA sometimes. For spyware I install Windows Defender (download it from microsoft, its free also) on all my machines at home and at work. We haven't had too many spyware problems using it.

 

[PierBridge]

Re: Best anti-virus and spyware software

Avg..free!

 

[NoKlu]

Re: Best anti-virus and spyware software

I got a 1 year license off fleabay for Kaspersky internet security for about 8 bucks. Since then I have been able to delete all of the other free spyware and adware programs I was using as they stopped finding anything. The free programs clean the stuff after it gets in they don't seem to stop it. No more manual updates and way cleaner system as the crap doesnt even get in and you don't have several programs to run. Way more efficient than Norton.Highly recommended.