List of Anti-Virus Software Compatible with Windows 7
Within a few hours of Windows 7 being released my inbox started filling up with readers asking what Anti-Virus software they should install in Windows 7. Since this seems like such an important topic, I decided to make a list of packages that work.
If this is your first time here, you should check out our list of 175 Windows 7 Tweaks, Tips, and How-To Articles
Our Recommendation
If you want something that’s going to work really well, and is totally free, you should check out the free Microsoft Security Essentials anti-virus solution, which isn’t going to slow down your PC.
- Week in Geek: The Microsoft Security Essentials is Excellent Edition
- Microsoft Security Essentials is a Free Antivirus Utility
Note: as a general rule, software that works on Windows Vista should work just fine on Windows 7, with the exception of software that installs low-level system components like an Anti-Virus, firewalls, or similar. These packages often are designed to only run on specific versions of Windows.
Windows AntiVirus Detection
When you first install Windows 7, you’ll get a popup balloon message telling you that you need to find an antivirus program online… notice the wrench on the balloons that will let you turn them off easily.
Once you’ve installed a compatible package, the message will go away and you’ll see a message in the Action Center telling you that “Virus protection” is On:
The packages should also hook into the Windows 7 update mechanism and let you know when your virus definitions are out of date.
And now, on to the list… I took a screenshot of the Action Center screen proving that each package installs and is recognized properly by Windows 7, but I also ran through a couple of quick tests for each package.
AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition
AVG Free is the most popular anti-virus software out there, and not only does it work just perfectly under Windows 7, but it’s on the list of a small number of software packages that are officially compatible per Microsoft.
You’ll notice that it also offers Anti-Spyware protection, and Windows recommends that you only run a single Anti-Spyware application:
For more on this package, see Mysticgeek’s review of AVG Free.
Avira AntiVir Personal Edition
Avira is a popular freeware antivirus solution that seems to be a hit on our forum, with a number of the regulars in favor of it. This software works without any issues that I could find during my quick testing.
For more on this package, see Mysticgeek’s review of AntiVir Personal Edition.
Norton AntiVirus 2009
Hardly needing an introduction, Norton AntiVirus 2009 works just fine. They are also on Microsoft’s list of compatible software for Windows 7.
You’ll notice that this provides anti-spyware protection, so you’d likely want to disable Windows Defender for performance reasons.
Avast! AntiVirus Home
Another popular Anti-Virus package that we’ve previously reviewed, this one works just fine. You’ll notice that this package provides Anti-Spyware protection as well.
Microsoft Windows Live OneCare: FAIL
This one was a bit of a surprise to me, but it turns out the previously reviewed Windows Live OneCare does not even install under Windows 7, just giving you a big fat error message:
I guess Microsoft still has some coordination problems. (Screenshot thanks to our forum administrator Scott).
Note: OneCare is going to be discontinued in June 2009, with Microsoft switching to offering a free product instead.
Kapersky Anti-Virus 2009
This antivirus software package is also on the Microsoft official list of Windows 7 compatible software. We’ve not reviewed it here because we tend to focus on free alternatives, but it’s well-known and preferred by a few of our forum members.
You’ll note that my virus database is out of date in the screenshot above. The Action Center consolidates all of these messages together into one place – rather useful.
McAfee VirusScan: FAIL
Reported to be not working by multiple readers including Daniel in the comments.
Also Working Per Reader Comments
These packages are reported to be working by the readers in the comments below:
- PCGuard Anti-Virus from Virgina Media Broadband
- ESET Nod32 Anti-Virus
- Microsoft Forefront Client Security (Enterprise)
Thanks, keep them coming!
Important Note
Just because all of these packages install and run doesn’t mean they are necessarily “supported” by the vendors.
Ask the Readers: What Did We Miss?
Obviously if you are looking for an Anti-Virus package this list should help you out… but I would like to complete the list. If you’ve tested out any other packages, or had any issues with the ones on this list, leave a comment and I’ll update the article. (If you are reading through RSS or Email click here to leave a comment)
Official Microsoft Anti-Virus Partners Page at microsoft.com
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Hi all
Just to let you know that for those in the UK subscribing to Virgin Media Broadband, the PCGuard anti virus package supplied free from their website works very well with Windows 7
ESET Nod32 Anti-Virus works on x86 & x64.
Microsoft Forefront Client Security and Microsoft Forefront code-named ’stirling’ also works, although these are Enterprise Anti-virus systems
I tried my copy of McAfee Internet Security Suite (downloaded the latest version of course) and it didn’t work – says unsupported operating system.
If anyone knows how to get it working I’d love to know, I’m using Kaspersky for now as I don’t really trust the free programs to provide full protection from anything other than the most basic viruses.
It is surprising that windows live has failed the test and it should be a matter of timing before microsoft comes with a patch for it and hopefully solves the problem
Awesome, I updated the article with your feedback. Keep it coming!
Isn’t OneCare being discontinued?
Kadpersky Internet Security 2009, successfully installed on windows 7 and working fine…!
I was using AVG, but when I tried uninstalling it, it gave me the Blue Screen of Death. I had to uninstall it through safe mode. It installs fine though, just be wary if you need to uninstall it.
Live OneCare failed because it is nearing end of life. No use to support it on Windows 7 when because by the time 7 is out, OneCare will be no longer sold. A new solution is forthcoming, probably around the June 2009 time frame.
https://www.microsoft.com/Presspass/press/2008/nov08/11-18NoCostSecurityPR.mspx
I installed the Free Avast. The program installed just fine, and updated just fine. The Action Center kept telling me that Avast needs updating. I would update it manually, Avast tells me that it’s updated, but the Action Center doesn’t seem to recognize that it has been updated.
After a reboot, the AC says everything is fine, no issues. A little while later, it tells me that Avast needs updating.
I uninstalled Avast, installed the Free AVG – no issues whatsoever.
The install went fine, update went fine, and the AC is not barking at me anymore.
Comodo Internet Security will install, too, if you run installation in Vista compatibility mode.
Vipre Anti-Virus and Anti-Malware by Sunbelt is also recognized.
I can confirm that Mcafee does NOT support Windows 7 yet. I talked with their customer support staff about it, and they said at this time they do not support it. The beta is in the same condition.
Thanks,
ZIfnab
Or you could not use an AV at all
With the new UAC, and common sense, I think one would be much safer (and if anything goes wrong, you can just reformat
)
Norton Anti Virus 2008 does not work..
Am I the only one who finds it absolutely hilarious that OneCare doesn’t work? lol. I love Windows and I really like the new Windows 7, but this just reminds me of those “I’m a PC, and I’m a Mac” commercials where the PC is made to look dumb for having so many issues (like that).
On to the point, I’ve used the three major builds of 7 and can confirm that Avast! works great in Win 7 Beta1 Build.7000 with no problems. Jim (posted above) is having a small conflict with the Action Center (oh another great idea, lol) but I have not had any conflicts in Build.7000. Other builds were a little buggy in regards to the Action Center, but it seems to be developing properly.
That being said, I always install and run my programs in Compatibility Mode Set to Windows Vista and with Administrative privileges. This allows many programs which would have conflicts to install, register with the registry, and run without problems. (Remember, just because you have the User Account Control turned down or off doesn’t mean that Defender, the Action Center, or something else will not block some part or portion of the installer or applicaiton from running properly.)
To do this, and you should for now, find the installer file that you downloaded and Right Click on it. Let’s say you downloaded the free Avast! Home antivirus program. In your Downloads folder you’ll see setupeng.exe, this is the installer file, Right Click on it and then click on Properties at the bottom of the menu. This brings up Properties, now click on the Compatibility tab. Here you see three sections, Compatibility Mode, Settings, and Privilege Level… Check the box “Run this program in compatibility mode for” and select Windows Vista from the drop down menu. Forget the Settings section and go to Privilege Level, and check the box “Run this program as an administrator”
This will run the installer in the best way it can for now.. But you’re not done yet, this only installs the file, and it still may not run correctly. (Yeah I know..) Now you have to navigate to the file location of the actual application and follow the above steps once again. Continuing the Avast! example, go to %\Program Files\Alwil Software\ Avast4 and look for the file ashSimpl.exe and go through the right click > Properties > Compatibility > Run this program in compatibility mode for > Windows Vista and Run this program as an administrator. You shouldn’t need to perform the operation on other files in that folder.
Using these methods, you can solve many of the issues with programs not installing/working correctly on Windows 7. I understand that it seems like a lot of steps but really it only takes a second. I also understand that programs “should just work” right out of the box or right away. You’re right but Win 7 is still new and don’t expect anything to be to easy yet. Thanks for reading lol, hope this helps.
“Am I the only one who finds it absolutely hilarious that OneCare doesn’t work? lol.”
Yeah, you are the only one, because OneCare is End of Life and will not be available for sale once Windows 7 is RTM. So, why support it? No reason to support it, and as yet to be released free AV solution will be available by then.
I hope the Geek updates the post to reflect this.
I updated the article to mention that fact.
Of course, any customers that bought a 1 year subscription will have then wasted their money because they can’t use it once they switch to Windows 7.
You say that “Avast! AntiVirus Home” works fine under Windows 7… what about “Avast! AntiVirus Pro”?
I confirm that Bitdefender Internet Security 2009 works perfectly well.
CA Internet Security 2009 works perfectly on Windows 7. I installed it without any trouble and it updates, scans…etc without any issues
On the subject of Anti Spyware – SUPERAntiSpyware BSODs during install!
I’d like to confirm, that BitDefender 2009 Total Security works fine, no problems with that.
Trend Micro OfficeScan 8.0 is working fine.
Is McAfee on the incompatible list because it isn’t compatible with Vista, as well? My McAfee “protected” Dell laptop that runs on Vista crashes with all data lost despite a “D” back-up drive about every other month, usually when I’m doing a Windows upgrade. Vista SP1 is the latest culprit to wipe me out. When I was reloading all the software, I noticed applications were flying until I installed McAfee. MS hinted it might have something to do with McAfee, but advised to install it anyway in a response that sounded like a corporate obligation.
I installed the Kaspersky Windows 7 beta suite from the “Click to find a program online” flag. It wouldn’t update automatically and wouldn’t uninstall either. So I am reformatting and installing NOD32 which is my preferred product anyway.
Yesterday I installed a-squared from emsisoft and had absolutely no problems. It is working really fine.
I installed BitDefender Total Security 2009 (I have 2 license keys got from a promotion if you want one just contact me with your email and I’ll send it to you) and it works!
Hi can any1 tell me Bitdefender total security 2008 works?????? 2009 works great. but what about 2008? it not going to update
ZoneAlarm Antivirus also works but two reboots were required for it to work on my computer. Also installed using Vista-compatiblemode.
I’ve got McAfee Virusscan 2008 12-in-1 and it gives me the incompatibility message whenever I start the PC up from scratch with Win7. If you persist through all the messages and elect to run the programme anyway, then the Windows security manager lists all services as working and ON. The problem seems to be that it no longer downloads definition updates for all its components – even if you tell it to do so yourself.
FYI…Kaspersky Workstation 6.0 caused frequent BSOD’s for me on Win7.
RE: antivirus programs work with WIN 7. You listed Norton AV, so I guess that Norton 360 will also work.
Thanks
Trend Micro works
Trend Micro doesn’t work for me. Gives me the blue screen after about 10 minutes.
PC Tools Internet Security, no issues *yet*.
I am using McAfee Beta edition and all i had to do was to right click on the install file after downloading the small install file and click on compatibility mode and chose run as vista sp1 rtm and i clicked on run as admin and it then download the entire program and it installed and even updates just fine
http://beta.mcafee.com/BetaMcAfee/Home.aspx
i find it funny that under vista my hard drive gets a 5.2 out of 5.9 but now gets a 2.9 out of 7.9. I wounder if it could be a driver issue?
Hey Norton works great no probz
how about we do a speed test of win 7 vs win 3.11 and see which is faster on an core i7?
(not to sidetrack the thread but:)
Don, that’s a big difference and is definably worth looking into. I know Windows 7 is packed with lots of drivers, but you might want to get onto your manufacturer’s website and grab all the Vista drivers. Maybe check the Hard Drive website and the motherboard website. You’ve probably already done that, but worth looking into if not.
Do Defender and McAfee clash? Should one be shut off, and if so, which is preferable?
i have an issue with the beta of Live messenger where it wont let me sign in. A few times i was able to disable mcafee and then it let me sign in, other times it would not with it being disabled.
Win7BetaTester i have a dell studio 1735 from best buy with an upgraded cpu that i put in which is an intel core 2 duo t-9300 at 2.5 ghz with 6mb of cache. Boy would I like an exterme in this, it does support the 1066 front side bus. I have 4gb of ram, 320gb hard drive, intel 4500hd video and all.
Nod32 security suite works for some and not others, for me the firewall when turned to interactive did not block anything outgoing (supposed to ask) and gave me junk addresses.
Mcafee WILL install in compatibility mode BUT it does something to windows update i haven’t figured out the problem and i’m uninstalling it.
Hi every body just to let you know nod32 internet security works very well
I tried AVG free but it would not run, some message about side configuration or something, I uninstalled it but forgot to make a not of the error…
It installed ok, just would not run for some reason.
Technically Onecare doesn’t really have to work since they are working on Morro. But yes, its rather strange that it actually doesn’t. I am all windows but here the windows guy deserves any punch from the Mac snob
my english is very bad but i will try it:
i’d seen on the official win 7 webside(microsoft) this 3 recommended security solutions which were norton, kaspersky and avg. i always trusted norton so i installed norton internet security 2009 – i use it in my vista and it’s very good and works best for vista. in the past i had some problems with kaspersky(system crashes and broken apps/drivers). after restart my machine with win 7 norton internet security didn’t start and the “actioncenter” alarmed me. the problem was defender – norton could not deactivate it. i removed norton and installed avg internet security 8.0(newest build). after restart the system my cpu went to 100% and the fan howled badly. i tried to uninstall avg but during the process the computer went out. after restart it was still impossible to remove the app. finally the sytem recovery solved the problem but it also broke firefox and my network driver. so here’s my advice: don’t trust microsoft recommends!
p.s.: now i use avira – it works great!
Two problems with your article:
1. You say about Kaspersky – “we have not reviewed it here since we look for free alternatives”.
But you failed to make the same note about Norton. Last time I heard, Norton was not free.
2. In their compatible software page Microsoft has provided links to
A) a special technical preview of Kaspersky Antivirus and not Kaspersky Antivirus 2009,
B) a beta version of Norton 360 ver 3 and not Norton Antivirus 2009.
Please make this distinction clear before encouraging others with AC screenshots.
McAfee VirusScan Enterprise 8.7i works just fine on Windows 7
@Ravi
I was making the clarification because I was also mentioning that it’s a favorite on our forum. If I had only said that, it would be implied that I was recommending it, which isn’t necessarily true.
The second point is a good one, though. I didn’t realize it was only the beta versions, and I’m not sure those pages were linked when I wrote this article.
Either way, it’s good to know which utilities work. I need to update this article with all the information from the comments.
Till reading this article,I thought Norton 360 had stopped Windows Firewall+Defender automatically,So some non-responds could be put down to these issues.Generally Win 7 running better than Xp,
!!! i have installed Kaspersky AV 2009 !!!
It crashed up my system!!
I had to use the system restore!
I don’t recommend you to try it !
For the people that talked about running things in compatibility mode and choosing Windows Vista- are you saying this works on Windows 7? Is Windows 7 in the drop-down to select “run in capability mode for”?
yes, but i often get an error trying that.
You can choose compatible vista but it often crashes your pc when doing that >.>
As Marc said, McAfee Enterprise Edition works fine. Windows 7 detects it, no error messages, etc.
recently i wrote avira would work but i have to retire my statement – it doesn’t. i installed avira antivir premium and it seemed be allright. after one day i noticed it wasn’t updating. but some good news: the norton 360 version 3 beta(recommended by ms) seems to work. apologize.
Sophos works as well.
@ neilmcc
Yours is an isolated case. I have Avira Antivir Personal Classic and Premium installed on two installations of Windows 7 beta build 7000 scanning and automatically updating like champs.
@ zeke
It works. I know this is not a post about how good an antimalware is but in the light of a new self protection test conducted by anti-malware.ru in January`09, I would suggest you switch to something more substantial.
Link for the same: http://translate.google.com/tr.....ction_2009
Kaspersky AntiVirus 2009 works fine on Win7 32 bit. (not tested yet on 64 bit).
Kaspersky AntiVirus 8 Beta works fine on Win7 64 bit. (it should be work on 32 bit).
Both tested on Win7 build 7000. If you failed to get them work, check your winver. Maybe you have an older version.
Everytime I run the virus scan on Norton 360 v2 I get a blue screen 0×0000008E, it says something about BIOS caching/shadowing and that it should be disabled, which it is…
I get no other crashes except when I click scan in Norton 360
You don’t mention PC Tools Free Antivirus and it is compatible with W7 x64 and x86 as well.
I have the lastest from Norton –> Symantec Enpoint Protection 11.0 and It DOES NOT work. Any suggestions. I did, however, install an older version of SAV and that worked. Very strange. Enpoint woks with VISTA but not with 7
I use bitdefender 2009. Initally the firewall would not reinitialise after the window 7 install but after reinstalling the software it works perfectly!
I m running Avast antivirus home edition 4.8. It shows in the action center but when generated a system health report, it shows that windows did not find an antivirus and antispyware software.
How do i fix it?
I have tried AVG Free 8 with Windows 7 Build 7000 and it won’t update. It gives me the error message: “Invalid Update Control CTF File”.
Panda Antivirus PRO 2009 (BETA)
http://www.pandasecurity.com
Kaspersky Windows 7 beta works fine initally. But have not had any luck with web control. When on it blocks site from all users.
I tried NOD32 version 4
After installing I got a blue screen memory dump error just after seconds.
Just because the anti virus company’s name is on the list of compatible anti virus programs for Windows 7 does not mean that all their products are compatible. If you actually click the links they take you to specific download pages for beta trial versions.
A bug I am aware of other than the products not installing etc, is that when you connect to a linux based network drive on Windows 7, after a few minutes the computer will get a blue screen of death. I know that Avast does this, and it took me 8 blue screens and a few hours to find out what the problem was. Several forums I’ve read have listed many programs as having this bug, in actual fact struggling to find one without it.
I found that ESET Smart Security Beta does not have this fault, however I am coming to the end of the trial and need to find another one. I refuse to pay for anti virus that is for a BETA operating system that will expire on 1st August.
I just would like to confirm that my “Kaspersky Internet Security 2009 8.0.0.506″ works great and smoothly with my “Windows 7 Build 7048 32Bit”
make sure you to install all your drivers before any antivirus insallation.
Eset Smart Security v4.0.314.0 works fine on Windows version 7.057 x64 here.
AVG free is NOT fully compatible with windows 7, only the paid version is. If you try to run any VPN software AVG will crash your computer
For some reason when i install Norton 360 and norton internet security 2009 my computer freezes after install. When it restarts i get a black screen with only a mouse. I have to go into safe mode to uninstall the program and it runs fine without antivirus.
Kasperski users beware .I installed the beta version on win 7. It worked fine for 2 weeks after that the system kept freezing. I realized that was the issue. I uninstalled the AV and now it looks like it’s working. Don’t install Kasperski.
kasprsky for windows 7 is free for 5 monhs and itis really good.
I have used Panda as well as bull guard 8.5 . Bull guard is much better u can try 60 days free version
i’m using kaspersky antivirus 8.0 for my windows7,but why i cant update..???plzz help me..my ie8 also dosnt work..
what antivirus is the best for my windows7 build 7077…? my ie8 still freezeeeeee…huhhhhhhhh
He i tried G Data internet security 2009
internet connection failed
problems whit dns server
Try Viper A 15-day trial version of VIPRE Antivirus + Antispyware is available on Sunbelt Software’s website at http://www.sunbeltsoftware.com.....ice/VIPRE/
Bit Defender internet security is Best Antivirus For Windows 7.
I have now KASPERSKY windows7 trail versie works perfect
its a special version for win 7
is Eset Smart Security v4.0.314.0 works on windows 7(build 7057 x86)?????????
Hi.. Im testing the beta 7077 on my AspireOne AOA150 and the system report some minor compatibility issue with AVG Free, but also the system work slowly with it….
anyone with a mapped network drive should be aware that Avast! on Win7 does *not* work. you get a tdx.exe bluescreen about five minutes after connecting to your network drive when the Network Shield kicks in. this happens whether you have Network Shield running or not (it still scans the files). as of May1 this issue still persists. a quick google search will show that this has been confirmed a couple other places as well. as far as i have found, there isn’t a hack/fix/workaround (other than uninstalling avast).
Eset Smart Security v4.0.314.0 x64 worked on build 7068 x64 for me,but Just Eset V4 anti virus x64 installed alone gave the BSOD so frequently I couldn’t use my computer, and could not uninstall,and took 5 attempts to reformat and reinstall windows 7 again.
Norton AntiVirus 2009 breaks under Windows 7 RC1
Forefront would not install for me. I tried installing from commandline with command: clientinstall.exe /nomom
We have an enterprise license so perhaps there is a newer installer available?
Problem report returned “incompatible”
Microsoft Forefront Client Security (1.0.1703.0) — Installation started
Log Name: Application
Source: MsiInstaller
Date: 5/6/2009 2:31:30 PM
Event ID: 11724
Task Category: None
Level: Error
Keywords: Classic
User: N/A
Computer: computername.domain.com
Description:
Microsoft Forefront Client Security — Installation failed.
Event Xml:
11724
2
0
0×80000000000000
1016
Application
1145INF1858W7.agia.in
Microsoft Forefront Client Security — Installation failed.
BTW, the ForeFront Client Security installer version that failed was X13-62435
I was able to get ForeFront installed – had to first run the command prompt as administrator: Start->All Programs->Accessories->Right-click on CommandPrompt and select RunAs Administrator. Then because I am running 64bit OS I ran the command
c:\Users\username.domain\Downloads\ForeFront Client Security\CLIENT\X64>clientsetup /nomom /L c:\Users\username.domain\
The installer was failing due to not being administrator, wrong 32bit version when I am 64bit, nor a correct Log file path.
Not any of the Norton Antivirus or Internet Security are working properly on Windows 7 RC1, windows notification is showing the driver incompatibility error, any solutions???
Please help…..
Regards…
I have tried using Norton Av 2009 as I read on microsoft’s web sote that is is compatible with Win 7. It installs ok and appears to run ok, except you get an action note saying that ‘Auto protect is off and the Heuaristic setting is off’ I switch them on, appears to work ok then same message. Uninstalled the program. I know it’s not free but felt it useful to know. I also tried the Kaspersky version via the microsoft recommended page. Installed ok, but kept locking up my machine. Quickly uninstalled!
I am now running AVG, again from the MS webpage. No problems, installed easily and works without a problem. Vast improvement on earlier versions.
Sorry! Should have said running Windows 7 RC
Norton anti-virus 2009 does not work with Windows 7 RC1 . “This driver is blocked due to compatibility issues”
Have to agree with David, Getting the exact same error messages Heuaristics are off and Norton Liveupdate fails to start, and Autoprotect is off.
Norton Internet Security 2006/07/08 Runs in Seven.
Norton gives the update free by Live Update.
You can check it in Symantec site.
Norton Internet Security 2009 v.16.5.0.135 apparently doesn’t install correctly. I got an error message saying there was an incompatible driver.
F-Secure technology preview (2010 beta version) works fine with Window 7 (Build: 7100) and you can get the full subscription by using the same crack (dll files) as for version 2009.
If you are upgrading from vista ultimate to windows 7 ultimate than your f-secure 2009 version will work perfectly but you cannot have a fresh install of fsecure 2009 version on windows 7.
ESET NOD smart security v4.0 can be downloaded from anywhere on the web and it works well with Windows-7 (builds 7000 & 7100). I loved f-secure internet security on vista ultimate but NOD 4 on windows 7 has totally changed my views. Try it.
I have successfully upgraded from Vista ultimate 32bit to Windows 7 (7100). All programs are running fine except bentley programs and ArcGIS v9.3. So please be carefull.
Windows 7 accepts any USB device for readyboost with only one condition that the file system should be NTFS. If you are using FAT system on your USB than it cannot be used for readyboost.
TrendMicro OfficeScan 8.0 is failing on Win 7 RC! (64bits) (did work for January beta).
Norton Internet Security 2009 seems to work ok under Windows 7 RC Build 7100. I had some connection issues when running LiveUpdate, but cannot accurately attribute them to Win7 as my ISP has been severely pathetic as of late.
Trend Micro beta for Windows 7 is working fine on “Windows 7 release candidate”. I have tested AVG, MC AFEE, NORTON, F-SECURE, PANDA and KASPERSKY. All of them except trend micro showed conflictions and slowed my computer. Especially NORTON harassed me more than anything else as usual. Trend micro has good firewall and it blocks more viruses than any other. Its antivirus quickly showed me more results than other antiviruses and some viruses that it detected were not detected by other antiviruses.
can confirm that symantec endpoint protection managed enterpise version 11.0.7 does not install but will quite happly on vista pc’s
sorry for double post has anyone tried symantec anti-virus enterprise 10.2 yet?
Hi all, Just to say that I am on Windows 7RC. And like you all testing out Antivirus? – So Far up to now I think KASPERSKY 8.0 beta, runs ok, apart from their (NDIS 6 Filter), which seems to be a bit deep? as On the diagnostic tool, of Windows 7; it as come up with a report and showing that (Kaspersky Anti-Virus NDIS 6 Filter), is giving a bit of a problem in the boot-up sector, as well to the start-up, which cause a slowing down in the start-up! But it works fine as a antivirus and runs well along with Windows Firewall. Best to disable Windows Defender for performance reasons.
As for AVG, MC AFEE, NORTON. I would say forget them, as Windows 7, is not compatible with them.
I had a problem with Norton Internet Security after I installed the Windows 7 RC, previously NIS09EN had worked fine with Windows 7 Beta.
Error User Name= ~Mr. Brian B Andrews logged with Symantec:
shortdesc= Loaded NIS09EN after installing Windows 7 RC (previously I had W7 Beta running successfully with NIS09EN) “Error with Driver for Symantec Heuristics windows message indicates I should contact: provider problemtype= prodsetup zip=
Symantec response
“I understand from your email that you receive an error message regarding Norton in your Windows 7 RC operating system.
Addressing your concern is important to us; I will do my best to assist you.
RC release of an operating system is designed for outside testing but is not yet a final version. Due to the frequent changes made to a RC release, Symantec cannot guarantee any level of functionality of any of its products with Windows 7 RC. Symantec does not recommend installing any of its software on a RC version of Windows 7 at any time during this phase. Microsoft may make changes to the RC version at any time. If your Symantec product is not compatible with those changes, you may see errors on restart or you may not be able to restart Windows at all. Symantec Technical Support does not provide support for any version of its software on any RC version of an operating system or application. Since Windows 7 RC will continue to change until it is released in its final version, we cannot officially support it as an operating system until after its final release for resale. However, we are working toward supporting Windows 7, and value your feedback as we continue our efforts.
I switched to ‘Avast’ with no problems I have stuck with NIS09EN on my XP & Vista boxes.
Yeah, I like the way that Symantec response, to anyone regarding; using Windows 7RC?
As we all know that Windows 7RC can change anytime from Microsoft! – But, as to say: “ Symantec does not recommend installing any of its software on a RC version of Windows 7”; but we all know that any new operating system or application, needs to be tested out, in order to assist them, as to any problems that may arise, during the trial period.
As I am happy using and testing out: KASPERSKY 8.0 beta. – As it seems to be working out alright, with hardly any problems and also there is some support from them, on this trial period, as to any changes that may arise!
The latest news: As I have been informed about, is a Service Pack 1, for Windows 7RC. It is due to be released soon from Microsoft. – And this will be a great help to us all, as it will contain the up to date for the (dllhost. exe). And this will be a big help, for any new Drivers that are needed!
Happy computing all and looking forward to, for the final release of this new Windows 7.
Norton Internet Security 2009 and Norton 360 both have issues on Windows 7 RC. See the Norton Community Forums for further information. The heuristics engine doesn’t work on the x86 version. The x64 version of NIS 2009 appears to work well, but I’ve had false positives. I’m assuming these are false positives because the DLLs come from a trusted source, and are not identified as trojans on the x86 version, nor when I was running Vista x64 and x86.
Avira Antivir Personal, which is a free antivirus+antispyware worked flawlessly with Windows 7 Beta and works flawlessly with Windows 7 RC too.
Try it and experience super fast boot times, very low resource consumption and top notch detection.
I installed avast proffessional 4.8 It’s working properly, No bugs.
no futher errors….
Try “KASPERSKY Technical preview” For Beta Release. That is the best antivirus availaible for WINDOWS 7 RC.
Tried Avast Home Edition with Win7 RC build: 7100 64-bit. Upon reboot after initial install, my system hung while loading. I had to manually shut system down and uninstall in ‘Safe Mode’.
I am getting blocked driver issues with Kaspersky.
Free AVG definitely did not work for me
Avira Works perfect
Will iolo Antivirus work on 7? System Mechanic PC Tune-Up also.
I trying out the (free)comodo security suite….loaded fine …now running virus scan……so far so good….I’ll get back on the results.
Nawwwwwwwwww that comodo security suite firewall won’t work…uninstalling & trying avg internet suite…!
The Windows 7 Technical Preview Kaspersky is perfect. I think the problems with Kaspersky noted in these comments are from a suite not specifically for Windows 7. We all need to remember 7 is not retail yet. The technical preview edition of Kaspersky is free to use; updates just fine automatically for me; works with e-mail, the web, files, etc. and it takes up very little resources. This is good since I am running 7 on a 1000HE EeePC.
Once 7 actually retails in October Kaspersky will most likely make their netbook edition of AV available for it.
My Norton Internet Security 2009 will not install with Windows 7 RC , keeps telling me that it requires either Vista or XP operating system.
Webroot AntiVirus with AntiSpyware installs and works well on Windows 7.
Webroot’s AntiVirus with AntiSpyware installs and functions with 64-bit Windows 7 RC build.
However, I noticed that my system would freeze for up to 5-10 minutes shortly after boot. The taskbar and start menu would work, but I would be unable to launch any applications using start menu or desktop entry points. After the freeze was over, any applications that I attempted to launch previously would then launch.
The solution in my case was to go into go into Webroot’s Shields | Windows System tab | File System Shield Options and disable “Scan on Write.” Now unchecking this option didn’t persist when I repeated the steps (had to uncheck it again), but in either case, I didn’t experience the freeze again.
This problem also reproed on Vista 64-bit.
Norton antivirus 2009 works fine, but only the version you download from their website… after program update, it fails.
AVG 8.5 Works prefectly. avg even has a special download page for windows 7.
List would have been more useful if it had contained info about whether the software works in x64 or compatibilitymode
CA AntiVirus also compatible with windows 7, it works well
THIS IS MICROSOFTS WINDOWS LIVE ONECARE ARTICLE ON END OF ONECARE AND NO WINDOWS 7 SUPPORTED BY IT AT ALL.
http://onecare.live.com/standa.....dance.htm#
Windows Live™ OneCare® End of Sale Guidance Page
WHAT IS CHANGING FOR WINDOWS LIVE™ ONECARE®?
Windows Live OneCare will begin discontinuing sales in all markets this summer. This page is intended to provide guidance and answer questions for customers as we complete this process. We will continue to update this guidance page as new information becomes available.
WHEN WILL ONECARE DISCONTINUE SALES?
Sale of Windows Live OneCare retail boxes will be discontinued during the summer season. Windows Live OneCare will be removed from direct online renewal and sale this fall.
HOW LONG CAN I USE MY WINDOWS LIVE ONECARE SUBSCRIPTION?
OneCare will support all existing customers through the duration of their subscriptions to ensure all subscribers remain protected and have ample time to find another security solution for their PC. OneCare will continue to be updated and supported until at least one year past the last subscription activation date. All OneCare customers will receive support and servicing through the end of their subscriptions. Please note that while Windows Live OneCare anti-virus and anti-malware protection will be continuously updated and all OneCare subscribers will be supported for the life of their subscription. OneCare will not be updated to support Windows 7.
WHAT OTHER SECURITY SOLUTIONS ARE THERE?
Microsoft announced that it plans to begin offering Microsoft® Security Essentials, a new security anti-malware solution, to consumers in the second half of 2009. The anti-malware solution will provide comprehensive anti-malware protection from threats including viruses, spyware, rootkits, Trojans, and other emerging threats in a single lightweight anti-malware solution. In concert with the ongoing improvements in internet security offered by Windows Vista®, the forthcoming Windows® 7, and Internet Explorer® 8, Microsoft believes that this no-cost service will offer the essential security that consumers need. And by making this available at no charge, we hope to be able to help the estimated 60% of consumers who still do not have up-to-date antimalware protection. If you would like to try Microsoft Security Essentials, the Beta is available now in select markets at http://www.microsoft.com/secur.....fault.aspx. This page will be updated regularly as new information about the Security Essentials release becomes available. Microsoft wants to ensure your PC is protected. If Windows Live OneCare and Microsoft Security Essentials do not meet your needs, you can learn more about security software providers for Windows here: http://www.microsoft.com/windo.....ows-7.aspx
http://onecare.live.com/standa.....dance.htm#
sorry i pasted in the link wrong above, this is the correct link here that shows the article from microsoft’s onecare, which i pasted in above the whole article FYI
Peace & healthy eyesight in spite of pc-gazing 
oh dear, i pasted it in again correctly and it still came out weird, but i did try clicking on it and it does go to the correct site on microsoft.
Just an FYI, my personal experience with NAV 2009 is that it DOES NOT work with the Win 7 RC Build 7100. Let me qualify that statement. It seemed to install with no issues until the end when Win 7 blocked the Symantec Heuristics driver. After a reboot NAV 09 seemed to work OK (with the exception of still blocking the heuristics driver) and I was able to manually run the live update. I didn’t have to reboot the computer for a couple of days after that but when I did I got another error saying that Live Update had failed and that there was some other incompatiblitly with a particular file.
I contacted Symantec support and of course got the official party line that they don’t support beta software but they did tell me that there was a beta version of NAV 2010 out that they had specifically designed for WIN 7 and then proceeded to download it for me and install it. Of course it promptly failed with an error message saying “This program has known compatibility issues…Location C:\Program Files\Norton AntiVirus\Engine\16.5.0.134\uiStub.exe…Norton 360 is incompatible with this version of Windows…” I loved it because the Symantec tech was remoted in and could basically just say “Uh…Uh…Uh…Well we don’t support beta versions of software…you’ll have to wait until Windows 7 is official and then we’ll have a product that supports it.” What a joke.
I tried to install Kaspersky Internet Security 2009 in Windows 7 (7600 RTM) 32bit. It had problem drivers and out of dated.
BUT I did installed it in Windows 7 (7100 RC) 32bit. HEY it does work!!!! No problem at all!!!!!!!!
Norton 2009 does not work with Windows 7.
My Norton Internet Security 2009 will not install with Windows 7 RC , keeps telling me that it requires either Vista or XP operating system.
I download Norton 2010 and that work, but it is only a trail for 14 days !
Tested AVG free on Win7 beta and RC1 and it worked fine for me, the 32 bit version.
Now I am running eset NOd32 Antivirus 4.0.314.0, registered and it works fine and dandy.
Running pc tools firewall plus free version and it’s also fine without any probs.
um… have you tested Eset Smart security 4 and NOD32 antivirus?
Have tested the following two – Trend-Micro and Norton. Both installed correctly on my RC (build 7100), separetly of course! With Trend-Micro ran into trouble. No matter which firewall profile i chose or rule i created to allow outgoing http (port 80) traffic i couldn’t access any of websites, i turned Trend-Micro to bare minimum and couldnt get it to work. as soon as i unloaded Trend-Micro my http traffic would work. So there are some bugs… With Norton (side note : guys where are you downloading from? http://www.f-secure.com/en_EME.....rams/istp/ and you get a 6 month subscription… 14 days talk is rubbish). With Norton 9.50 build 961 i haven’t run into any trouble… yet (keep fingers crossed : )
Norton AV 2009 seems to work with Win 7/64 but has a problem with Win 7/32. Anyone else find this?
Norton 360 has issues with Windows 7. 3 or 4 drivers get disabled due to not being compatiable. Chated with Norton and they say that their products will not be compatiable untill Windows 7 is offically released in October.
Norton AV 2009 does not work with RTM Windows 7. Installs, but says hueristics drive fails to load and Advanced Protection will not work. Spent a frustrating time with Symantec support via chat who decided to just disappear and not call back when I argued Windows 7 is RTM and not beta as they claim. Submitted an online support request afterwards. They claim they have a Norton AV 2010 in beta that will support Windows 7 when released.
Here is their response from Symantec support:
Thank you for contacting Norton Support.
I understand from your e-mail that you want to know if Norton 360 is compatible Windows 7 operating system.
Please note that Norton Antivirus is still not compatible with Windows 7 operating system. Norton Antivirus runs best with Windows XP service pack 2 and Windows Vista.
Symantec has been testing Norton Antivirus 2009 to be compatible with Windows 7, and Norton Antivirus customers will be eligible to receive a free online update for Windows 7 after the final version of the operating system is made available
When the production version of Windows 7 is released, users of Norton AntiVirus 2009, Norton Internet Security 2009 and Norton 360 Version 3.0 with active subscriptions will automatically receive the appropriate compatibility update. The update will be delivered automatically online, and no user action will be required.
Symantec does not recommend installing any of its software on a beta version of Windows 7 at any time during the beta phase. Microsoft may make changes to the beta version at any time.
Since Windows 7 Beta will continue to change until it is released in its final version, Symantec cannot officially support it as an operating system until after its final release for resale.
If you require additional assistance or still have some concerns, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.
While replying to this message, please do not change the subject line of this message.
McAfee Enterprise 8.7i is said to be not working on Windows 7 according to this article. In the comments one says it does work without any problems. Neither is the case here. It does install under Windows 7, it also does work and detect virusses, though digging deeper in Windows 7 one will find that the Action Center in Windows 7 reports an issue with McAfee VirusScan Enterprise where the communication between the product and Windows is too old.
ClamWin 0.95.2 opensource antivirus works perfectly….
The official word from McAfee is as follows:
“McAfee VirusScan Enterprise 8.7i is compatible with Windows 7 with the exception of Buffer Overflow Protection (BOP). This advanced protection feature fails gracefully running in the Windows 7 beta environment. Customers installing and running VSE 8.7i in a Windows 7 beta environment are required to turn the BOP feature off.”
https://kc.mcafee.com/corporate/index?page=content&id=KB60468
Also, “McAfee will address all known issues and fully support the latest versions of VirusScan Enterprise and Total Protection Service within 30 days of Microsoft Windows 7 general availability announcement.”
Of course (BOP) isn’t an issue with the the 64 bit version of Windows 7.
i have windows 7 64 bit i want the best antivirus for my new computer witch antivirus install ?
i have recently formatted my computer from xp to windows7, and have installed bt netprotectplus,which actually works great even though bt say its not compatible,bet when i came to installing it on another pc also running windows7, it now says that it is not compatible, why is this?
I installed beta version of mcafee 2010 suite…
works well
Hi,
Just to let you know MS ForeFront is NOT compatible with W7.
Rgds,
Peter Mortensen
I’m now running Windows 7 Professional (RTM) on my Dell latop and Samsung netbook, both with AVG Free for Antivirus. Unfortunately on my NC10, using AVG added 5 minutes to the start-up time (usually 40 seconds or so), so I had to uninstall. Now looking for another anti-virus provider…
There is alot of antivirus software for Windows 7 now .. which is great!
Bitdefender total security 2009 does not work on my windows 7 64bit. Gives problems with the network and firewal security.
Windows live onecare is not compatiable with windows 7, and it will be discontinued.
Microsoft Security Essentials is going to replace Onecare, it is currently in beta now, once it is fully released it will be on the Microsoft Website.
Microsoft Security Essentials will work on windows 7
Kaspersky beta anti-virus for Win7 = BSOD
so far Panda’s beta ver is ok…
AVGfree works allright, however the full version is causing blue screens with windows7 (64) at least once a day, it slows down the CPU by taking 95% after any update, it conflicts with Outlook 2007 wth Business Contact Manager. Btw, It did the same with Vista (32).
So, I will try some of the above others or reinstall AVGfree
I just finished my 60 day free trial with BullGuard on Windows 7 RC and found it very good. Not a single problem. Excellent GUI and small footprint. It is one of the very best security apps I’ve used.
Can confirm Trend Micro Client/server security agent works fine on Windows 7 Enterprise. Did have install issues but got around that by installing with install disk rather than remote pushing the client to the machine. Also one driver does come up as incompatible but dont seem to be having any other issues.
i downloaded kaspersky internet security 2009 trial from official site
during installation it gave an error “A driver was blocked……”
although i continued installation and kaspersky was running but most of its components were not!
So thumbs down to KASPERSKY INTERNET SECURITY 2009 frm my side
Downloaded the final version of Windows 7 Ultimate from MSDN and can confirm that Kaspersky Internet Security 2009 does NOT work on it. I received the same error as a previous poster where a driver is being blocked.
The product appears to install, but most of the components are non-functional.
Microsoft Security Essentials has been released, and it will work on windows 7.
Symantec Endpoint Protection starting with version RU5 (11.1.500x and above) works and is supported for Windows 7. Spybot Search and Destroy, also works fine.
Kaspersky Internet Security 2009 is not yet supported on win 7
during installation i got the error “A driver was blocked……” and most of its components were not working properly with alot of bugs and issues
Has anyone tested Trend Micro Internet Security (2009) with Windows 7?
The Geek needs to update this article to include the FREE Microsoft Security Essentials.
see this link- http://www.microsoft.com/secur.....fault.aspx
This is FREE from Microsoft. No Subscription. It is low impact, and works well with Windows 7. Don’t waste any time with 3rd party AV software garbage. You will regret it. THey are all invasive and compromise performance. Microsoft Security Essentials is clean, and doesn’t impact performance.
Anti virus on Virgin Media does not work on my Windows 7, understand will not see update till next year
tried the kaspersky win7 prototype…crashed my system horribly, using 60 day trial of avast until win7 has been out a while and a forerunner emerges.
Installed WIN 7 over Vista. Works Great!
When I place the PC in sleep and then wakeup, The network backup drive (P) has a red “X” on it in My compuer and I cannot access it unmless I reboot. Any suggestions? It worked OK in Vista.
Avira Antivir Personal and Premium is running smoothly on Windows 7 RC, Windows 7 (32 bit) and Windows 7 (64 bit) on two of my machines
Hi people there,
I saw the list of antivirus software compatible with windows 7 and I found the Kaspersky antivirus out there.
so… if Kaspersky antivirus 2009 is on the list, it means that Kaspersky internet security 2009 could be also compatible, isn’t???
I have my Kaspersky internet security 2009 and it’s not compatibe… always appears the messege asking to turn on Kaspersky internet security.
how can I solve this problem??
Anyone have a new / updated list of internet security software that is compatible with Win 7?
I just got a new laptop with Windows 7 and McAfee came preinstalled on it as a demo. Everything seems to be running fine…
btw Bitdefender also claims to work on Win 7 but I have found it extremely unreliable allowing a lot of unwanted creatures on one of our PCs – any comments?