Windows Live OneCare is a signal from Microsoft that it is joining the competitive consumer security industry. But since it is still new, it is deemed a less superior product compared to other recognized software veterans such as Symantec and McAfee. Overall, one can discover that Windows OneCare does not offer many unique options and features as well as repackaging tools while those options that it already has is already available for free from Windows system or Internet Explorer 7.
Installation and set up
Downloading and installation of the software is done without any hitch. However, Windows OneCare has a huge requirement of 600MB space in the hard drive, which is almost twice the space needed by Norton and three times that of McAfee Security. Similar to other excellent security protection suites, its costs already include installation on a maximum of three computers such as two laptops and one desktop, just to cite an example.
Windows Live OneCare features
Windows Live OneCare boasts of a number of performance and security tools and options meant for users of Windows XP. However, it is worth mentioning that many of windows Live’s other features can be had for free from any Windows XP system. Windows XP users exclusively have use of Microsoft's antivirus engine, back up and recover feature as well as its firewall protection.
But while Live OneCare is able to deliver two-way firewall protection to XP, one can hardly find direct evidence. There are no exact settings on configuration for inbound as well as outbound filtering, albeit a setting is discovered to configure single program controls for online browsers.
It should be emphasized that Windows Live offers performance tools. However such features can easily be acquired via Windows XP. The performance and security features are not as thorough and dedicated as that which is provided by McAfee. Windows Live OneCare provides simple tools on backup and recovery. The program has a feature allows users to make back-ups for their CD, HD, USB and DVDs.
Summary of benefits
The Windows Live OneCare Anti-software system generally offers protection with its firewall, antispyware and antivirus features. It is also excellent in defragmenting hard drives and fully offers localized backup and data recovery.
Disadvantages
First of all, it is clear that Windows Live OneCare has an interface that is lacking in graphics, icons and sheer sophistication. Likewise, Windows Live OneCare is heavily dependent on major Windows components like Internet Explorer for security.
For those who use Firefox and Opera, unfortunately Windows does not support such browsers. It does not provide online backup, which is a bane for many PC users. Sadly, many of the options and features that it offers can be had for free within Windows.
Likewise, if a user decides in removing Windows Live OneCare, he will not be able to located uninstall icon, which means the Add or Remove Program tool will have to be used from the Control Panel.
Is Windows Live OneCare a perfect choice?
If only because if its features and options, Windows Live OneCare is worth using as a anti-virus software for the PC. Although if a user wants only the best for his money, he can opt for a much better choice in other solutions such as Symantec or McAfee.
