I'm looking for an anti-virus for my new desktop immediately. Is it worth it to pay?

-I am thinking about either downloading a free version of Avast! or purchasing their maximum protection. Is there that much of a difference between the two?'Out-of-the-box' MS Windows absolutely reeks with security problems and bad configurations that average users are unaware of...and so the endless exploits and malware infections.

Avast! shows over 2.7+ million KNOWN malware code items. Unknown items certainly exist, and 'legit' services are becoming indistinguishable from malicious garbage.



You must reform your entire Windows strategy and tactics.

"10-Step Security"/PC World; http://www.pcworld.com/article/122500/10鈥?/a>



Even the most diligent & informed user, with layers of protection, smart user habits, solid system configurations & "real time" protection, risks infection. Check for fairly current threats here: http://www.computerworld.com/s/topic/new鈥?/a>



Stop using Internet Explorer!

It is the Undisputed World Heavyweight Champ @ passing malicious garbage.



Firefox, beefed up with these official Firefox Collection items, stops acres of malware seen here in Y! Answers:

https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox鈥?/a>

"NoScript" will go a long way preventing "rogue" malware infections.



Turn off 3rd party assets:

Tools> Options> Privacy> top drop menu set to "Firefox will use custom settings..."> Check 'Accept Cookies from sites'

鈻?amp; Un-Check 'Accept 3rd Party cookies'.



Use "Sandboxie": http://www.sandboxie.com/ for even better protection.

Core defense applications might include (but not limited to) a robust dedicated anti-virus (I make no recommendations).



Always incorporate a stout firewall: Some freeware is here: http://www.snapfiles.com/Freeware/securi鈥?/a>

Look them over and match your needs to skill level.



And, get this installed: 鈻?quot;HOSTS file" (from mvps.org) which blocks evil webpage assets from re-directs which install malware or trashware. (Vista requires special instructions; on-page link)

http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/hosts.ht鈥?/a>

SpywareBlaster (snoopware prevention and hostfile guardian); http://www.javacoolsoftware.com/spywareb鈥?/a>



If you don't have time or skill for 'updating', have a look @ "Secunia": checks all your 3rd party stuff for updates.

Freeware.

http://secunia.com/vulnerability_scannin鈥?/a>



Most novice users and Windows fanboys do not like hearing this, but nonetheless, it's true: using Windows on the Internet, requires you to become a security EXPERT, it's that freekin' simple. Something they conveniently omit telling you when you buy this system...



Note that deliberate use of 'dark side' sites, porn, peer-2-peer, pirated music, movies, software, etc. will ultimately defeat ANY security barriers.



Making all these changes seems overwhelming, and it is a pain in the keester; but it MUST be done, and constantly tweaked...or stop using Windows on the Internet; move to Linux.
If you want free then I recommend Avast , superantispyware and Malwarebytes. coupled with Comodo firewall They are all free for personal use . It is safe to use two anti-spy products but never use more than one A/V as it can cause conflicts. You should run A/V and anti spy weekly.
Yes there is a difference. Free versions allow basic protection and full purchased versions would give you full protection from viruses and other bad stuff.
its better you dont install any antivirus then to bye Avast....If you want to bye then only and only go for Kaspersky Internet Security / Antivirus...or if you want any free then go for Avira or AVG....but never ever AVAST!!!!!
No there isn't. I've used the free version of Avast for an year and I've never had problems (instead of AVG Free).

You don't need the premium version ;)