Antvirus Software?? AVG? Avast?? Norton?? What's the difference?

So there is always a question that I get asked as a Computer geek!! Whether a friend, co-worker, random people i meet... What Anti-virus software is good? What makes an Antivirus good? How much do i need to spend?? Ok I know that was more than one question, but it encompases one major question What Antivirus?

Well there are several factors that should be taken into consideration when making your decision and my take on your best choice may surprise you. First thing you want to find out is pretty obvious. Do other people think it works well with your operating system type (XP, Vista 200 pro etc..). Some antiviruses work better with different operating systems. Now, you may ask... Well thats all well and good, but what do i want to know when doing these searches? Well some of those answers are obvious, and some not so much. Below is a break down f things to look for.

1.) Is it supported by your operating system version
2.) Is it very processor intensive? Do people say that they can do very little when the antivirus is on a live scan
3.) Are their Defenitions updated daily?
4.) Is the software a memory hog?

These are all things you can find on the web using google and typing something like "Is AVG a computer Hog?" You will be surprised how many people out there freely offer this information without any hassel just so others don't make the same mistake they did. So with that said, here are my picks for great Antivirus software and why I chose them.

1.)  AVG Anti-Virus 9.0 ! AVG is a great antivirus software that is low maintenance and a set it and forget it type of software. i have used it for several years now on all my machines and it is just fantastic. They are even having specials like - 2 years for the price of 1. I can run scans and have outlook and other applications open without my computer crashing or running really slow. I have had no viruses since I have used AVG and is the best bang for your buck!

2.) Trend Micro AntiVirus plus AntiSpyware 2010 is one of the leaders in the industry for Office Antivirus and Email Virus scanning and is great for a little more security on Antispyware. You going to spend a little more, but is worth it if you have the bucks to do it.