Can you run Windows without anti-virus or anti-spyware? Gadgetell experiments

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Can you run Windows without anti-virus or anti-spyware? Gadgetell experiments

by Iyaz Akhtar on May 1, 2009 at 10:42 AM

Today, I will be starting an experiment that will last all of May, 2009. We all know that Windows is the most popular OS out there. Due to its popularity, it is a frequent target for hackers. However, is anti-virus or anti-spyware necessary if you know what you’re doing?

Here’s the experiment: two machines, both running Windows XP that will be using Windows Updater (so the OS will be patched). Neither will have anti-virus or anti-spyware software running. With one machine I will only go to designated “safe” download sites and well known websites. With the other, I will act like an idiot.

I will provide weekly updates on Fridays and eventually at the end of the month will find out how screwed up each machine is using scanning tools. Are you ready for the experiment? More details to come.

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Comments

webbahboy said:

What a great experiment! The results should be a hoot! But maybe…..surprising!
on May 2, 2009 at 05:23 PM - LINK
Adam Berger from New York, NY said:

Man are you screwed!
on May 5, 2009 at 11:58 AM - LINK
lluis said:

Running windows firewall or not? Would be interesting to do the same with windows 7, too..

I predict the “sensible” machine will be pretty much free of viruses. The “idiot” one may not make it to the end of the month.

Interesting experiment, should put an end to many blind discussions!
on May 6, 2009 at 05:06 AM - LINK
abbas73 said:

it would be a miracle if windows can run without an antivirus program i am eagerly awaiting for results. donot expect much though.
on May 11, 2009 at 09:07 PM - LINK
gandharva said:

Never try to Run your Computer and laptop mainly Internet on your system without having Internet and firewall.
Since because there are lots of intruders and hackers waiting to attack your system if found no Antivirus and Internet Security install on your computer.

Always try to Keep your system Safe and secure..

Best of luck.

For technical help and Live Support for Virus, Spyware and Malware, Trojen help please try to take help from this site..http://www.iyogi.co.uk
on May 14, 2009 at 02:50 AM - LINK
pendrive antivirus blog said:

really helpful. i’m normally using both windows and kaspersky firewalls!
on January 27, 2010 at 11:44 AM - LINK
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