Microsoft Security Essentials Available Through Windows Update

I have been hearing rumblings lately that Microsoft’s Security Essentials is now available through Windows Update.  The availability of an antivirus application through this type of service means that users will no longer have to scour the web for a link to install it.  So what gives?

If your computer is running a Genuine version of Microsoft’s operating system and are currently unprotected (no antivirus software installed) you may soon be greeted with an optional update for Microsoft Security Essentials. The Windows update option may potentially open some doors for a new slew of suits aimed at Microsoft though.

Companies that make security solutions like Symanntec, Kaspersky, McAffee and the like will certainly not be happy that the free offering is made available to you so easily.  However, this move by Microsoft does more than just protect end users from malicious applications, it protects Microsoft too.  The question will then arise as to which company is going to strike first, and how hard?

Small business owners can finally take advantage of the offering as well.  Microsoft’s Security Essentials is available to small businesses for free if you are running 10 or fewer machines.

Article ID: 2267621 – Last Review: October 28, 2010 – Revision: 3.0

Microsoft is offering Microsoft Security Essentials as an optional update to Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 users who subscribe to Microsoft Updates. If you are not currently running anti-malware software on your computer then you may be vulnerable to spyware, viruses, and other malicious software. Microsoft Security Essentials is free anti-malware software and it is strongly recommended that you download and install it. Microsoft Security Essentials is licensed for use on home PCs and by small businesses with 10 or fewer PCs.

Read our take on MSE: Microsoft’s Security Essentials