Sr. Citizen Questions Re New Desktop & Virus Programs, Please

Robert11 · 19 Jan 2019

Hi Folks,

Thanks for all the previous help.

Going to purchase a new Desktop pc for the family, and have to admit that I've lost track of
the Posts and info. on this subject, as I'm in my 80's now and somewhat hard to keep up with.

I imagine it is a very common question.

What Virus/Malware, etc. is generally thought of these days as being the most effective ?

Is one package sufficient, or should I purchase two (getting pricey if I do) ?

Should I consider the free versions of ?

BTW: Might as well also ask now: HP and Dell both thought of as having pretty much the same
"quality levels" on their Desktops ? How about for service ?

Samsung the "best" for 4K Monitors ?

Thanks,
Bob

Try3 · 19 Jan 2019

Bob,

The Windows defender anti-malware application forms part of Windows 10 and there is no compelling case [or, rather, no case that has compelled me] for adding anything else. You can compare the major ones at www.avtest.org - the current results show that Windows defender is up there in the top-ish group and, if you press the little > symbol to the right of the results' symbols, you will be able to see more details [such as it being marked down for slower installations, which never bothers me].

I disagree that HP & Dell are of the same quality. Dell have often let me down. For example, they do not provide replacement batteries for my latest computer and they crippled WiFi on my previous one by installing a ridiculous driver & management software for it. I only bought from them this time because nobody else offered the particular features I wanted to try out [laptop with 17 inch touchscreen].

HP support consistently scores well in comparative reviews. See Laptop Tech Support Showdown! Our 2018 Ratings - Laptop mag for the latest I can find at the moment.

This might be useful for you - Best and Worst Laptop Brands 2018 - Laptop Mag

I do not know why you are getting a desktop instead of a laptop. If there is no particular reason then I would suggest keeping an open mind on the matter because a laptop's portability might prove to be a useful benefit.

Denis

fireberd · 19 Jan 2019

I'm a "Florida Retiree" and in your age bracket.

I use the built in Windows Defender Antivirus and the (purchased) Malwarebytes for malware protection.

I do part-time PC support and repair and I see no difference in reliability or customer service between Dell and HP. I have had other brands that I will not buy or recommend to my clients. I currently have a self built desktop and a Dell Inspiron 15 5577 laptop. Both are performing well. The laptop is only used in my recording studio for off-site recordings.

Whether to buy a desktop or a laptop? Up to you, my preference is a desktop. There are many very good monitor companies including Dell, Viewsonic, etc. I have no experience, either myself or clients, with Samsung monitors so I can't comment on them.
My desktop monitor is a 27" high def Dell "gaming" monitor that has 2560X1440 capability (that gives me lots of "real estate" for my recording studio apps).

Robert11 · 19 Jan 2019

Hi,

Just a quick thanks for the replies.
Good info., and much appreciated.

Regards,
Bob

Samuria · 19 Jan 2019

You can always get a better pc and deal from a local supplier and if there are problems you can go and see them which you cant with dell etc

Ztruker · 20 Jan 2019

Don't count out Lenovo. I've had two Dells, two HPs and the Lenovo K450 which I'm using now and have had since April of 2014. It's been an excellent system with zero problems other than a hard drive. I upgraded the Power and video when I moved to Windows 10, by choice, not need.

Samurai's suggestion about having a local shop build one is also good if you can find one that has been around for awhile and looks like it may still be around in a few years when you might need them.

Price should not be the controlling factor. One of the factors yes, but not the make or break one. Get the best you can afford, you won't be sorry.

Steve C · 21 Jan 2019

I'm content just using the built in version on Defender augmented with weekly scans by AdwCleaner and Malwarebytes (free).

Follow safe browsing habits and don't open unknown email attachments.

I use Outlook for email and turn off the following:

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Don't download pictures automatically
Disable all macros without notification or notifications for digitally signed macros