Overview

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware utility  can identify and remove malicious software from your computer.  The free version has gained a lot of popularity and is becoming heralded as one of the most fastest and most effective utility in its class.  The full version includes the ability to create scheduled scans and provides real-time protection.

Walk Through Review

Installation – 8

Installing Malwarebytes is easy and straight forward following the installation wizard.  One thing to point out during installation choosing to update the malware database right away.

Features – 7

The free version has what you would expect from a malware cleaning utility and the licensed version offers even more functionality.  To run manual updates go to the Update tab then Check for Updates.

You can add different detections to the ignore list which is handy for avoiding false positives.

There is also the ability to report false positives to the site and manage the quarantine section to avoid essential files.  Another cool feature is FileASSASIN that will delete those pesky locked files from infections.

Enable real-time protection in the paid version under the Protection tab and click Start Protection.  Here is where you can also schedule scans and updates.

You can generate reports of your findings as well.

Ease of Use – 8

Using this application is very straight forward and the interface is easy to navigate.  To run a quick scan just launch Malwarebytes, choose quick scan, then hit the scan button.

You will be shown the amount of objects infected and elapsed time and can pause or abort the scan.

Another successful scan, click OK to display the results.

Performance – 8

Scans are very fast and the real-time scanning in the licensed version takes up few resources and performs very well.  There is also the ability to report false positives to the site and manage the quarantine section to avoid essential files.

Product Support – 7

They offer good support through a help desk page on their site.  You can check out their FAQ or submit a help request through their online form.

Conclusion

Overall this is a great security utility to combat malicious software infections.  The free version works just as fast and effective as the paid version minus the extra options of scheduling and real-time protections.  The licensed version for personal use is a one time fee of $24.95.  It officially supports Windows 2000, XP, and Vista (32bit version only).

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Rating

• Installation: 8
• Ease of Use: 8
• Features: 7
• Performance: 8
• Product Support: 7