If you have a computer, most likely at some point you have done a scan with Malwarebytes anti-Malware. For years, this program has helped consumers and pros alike fight
all types of Malware that other programs simply would not remove. The program works so efficiently that it is actually rare to have a computer experience a no boot situation after a virus removal.
The original program had both a free and paid version. The free version is great for many as long as you do a scan with it at least once a week. If you are familiar with the pricing structure, the paid version was a one-time fee of $24.99 that lasted for life. The real time scanner is a plus and it never slowed down your computer. In addition, it is designed to play nice with almost all anti-virus programs.
Today, a huge milestone was set for this famous program. Malwarebytes has introduced Malwarebytes version 2. We decided to give the software a test drive to see if we could discover any bugs or performance issues.
First and foremost, if you already own a PRO license, you’re grandfathered in for the lifetime updates. If you are a new subscriber, you will now need to pay $24.95 per year to maintain your system. That price covers 3 computers. I will say that is a very small price to pay for the protection that this product offers.
When you navigate to the Malwarebytes website, you are offered different download options. If you are a new customer, the download will offer either a free version or a Premium version. There is also a link to use if you are upgrading from an existing version that is already on your computer. Again, you will see both a free version upgrade and a Pro version upgrade. Use these links if you already have the program on your computer.
The installation process was a bit slow when the install first started but once initiated, the install went without a hitch. I assume the delay was due to removing the old install before the new install went in. Once I had the program in I was presented with a much more modern interface then the original program. My Pro key was transferred to the new program flawlessly.
The first task I wanted to do was my initial scan. They offer 3 scan choices. The threat scan, the custom scan and the hyper scan. For most applications, the threat scan is the way to go. That is comparable to the quick scan in the older version. I tested the scan on both XP and Windows 7 computers. The scan ran fairly fast but seemed to use more resources while the scan was actually taking place. If you were used to the speed of the old program you might see some sluggishness with the new one.
Once the scan is complete and the tool is running hidden in the system tray, there is very little drag on your system. I would recommend doing scans with all your programs closed and you do not need to do any work on your computer. On one machine I tested, it actually froze the machine for several minutes while I was doing a scan and trying to work at the same time.
Many of you might be familiar with the Malwarebytes Root kit cleaner. It is an excellent product for removing stubborn hidden Malware that is buried deep in your machine. This program is included with the new Malwarebytes. If you want to check your computer for root kits, go to the settings tab in the new interface then go to the Detection and Protection tab and put a check next to the Scan for Root kits option. From here, you can add automatic scans, exclusions and much more.
This advanced scanner will be a great addition to your security arsenal. Some folks only use Malwarebytes and do not use any other product. Malwarebytes will usually find a lot more threats then your anti-virus program will but I still recommend running Security Essentials as well.
In short, the product installed with no errors, it accepted my existing Pro code and scanned the system fairly quickly. If you are a new user, you will have to pay the 24.99 on a yearly basis instead of lifetime. If you are still running XP, this is a MUST to have installed. It will help to keep you as safe as possible after support ends in April.
Posted by, Ross Deprey from Computer Geeks Online.net
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