Microsoft Security Essentials Beta Review
A Review of Microsoft Security Essentials
Yesterday marked the release of the beta version of Microsoft Security Essentials, formerly known under the codename Morro. This article provides an overview of what users can anticipate from this new security software.
Introducing the Antivirus Utility
This latest security solution from Microsoft is designed as an antivirus utility. It’s intended to function alongside Windows Defender and the built-in Firewall. It effectively replaces their previously offered OneCare service.
Installation and System Impact
The installation process is streamlined and user-friendly, guided by a clear installation wizard. The download size is minimal, under 8MB, and the program demonstrates a light footprint on system resources when compared to many other antivirus programs.
Verification of your Windows copy is a necessary step during the installation procedure.
Initial Setup and Updates
Following successful validation and installation, the program immediately allows you to check for updates and initiate a system scan.
A progress screen will be displayed while the database updates are being applied.
User Interface and Scan Options
The user interface is both intuitive and well-organized, facilitating immediate protection. Users have the flexibility to choose between Quick, Full, and custom scan types.
Real-time protection is enabled by default, providing continuous security.
Customizing Scan Schedules
The Settings tab allows for the customization of scanning schedules to suit individual needs.
Real-time Protection Settings
Within the Settings menu, you can modify the configurations for Real-time protection, or alternatively, disable it if desired.
Microsoft SpyNet Membership
The Settings section also provides options for managing your Microsoft SpyNet membership. The Basic membership is enabled by default. Selecting the Advanced membership results in a greater volume of data being transmitted to Microsoft, including file locations and names, as well as details about potentially malicious software.
If data transmission is a concern, reviewing their Privacy Statement is recommended.
Scan Results
Upon completion of a scan, the results are clearly presented on the main screen.
Performance Evaluation
Overall, Security Essentials demonstrates rapid scanning speeds and minimal impact on system resources. Testing was conducted on a Windows 7 (32-bit) machine equipped with an Intel Dual Core processor and 3GB of RAM, and performance remained consistently smooth.
Beta Availability and Release Date
Currently, only 75,000 beta copies are being offered. Access requires registration for a Microsoft Connect account. For those interested in early access, it is advisable to obtain the beta before it becomes unavailable.
The official release is currently scheduled for sometime in September.
Microsoft Security Essentials