The top choice is the one that meets your needs best.
The top choice is the one that meets your needs best.
You might consider the Security Essentials pack from Microsoft. It isn’t the top choice, but it gets the task done without constant reminders about updates. I’d suggest Avast instead, though their free antivirus suite has become quite cluttered with add-ons lately.
On Windows 8/8.1 rely on built-in Windows Defender as a daily antivirus and Malwarebytes for thorough scans occasionally. For Windows 7 use Microsoft Security Essentials, matching Windows Defender’s role, plus regular scans with Malwarebytes.
Summary: Built-in security + Malwarebytes for Windows 7 & 8/8.1 monthly scans.