Microsoft seeks testers for limited beta of next-gen Security Essentials
Microsoft is seeking testers interested in trying out the next version of Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE), according to a November 18 TechNet blog post.
The beta will be limited and is not yet available, but will be some time before the end of the year. There's no word as to when the final version of the next release of MSE will be available.
MSE is Microsoft's free anti-malware/anti-virus product that is based on the same engine that its paid Forefront Endpoint Security product uses.
The coming version of MSE includes the following features, according to Microsoft's latest blog post:
Automatic malware remediation: "The Beta will clean high-impact malware infections automatically, with no required user interaction," according to the post. Enhanced performance: "The Beta includes many performance improvements to make sure your PC performance isn’t negatively impacted," the post said. Simplified UI: The interface of the beta easier to use, the Softies said.
New and improved protection engine: "The updated engine offers enhanced detection and cleanup capabilities," according to the company. MSE is aimed first and foremost at users who either can’t or won’t pay for antivirus/anti-malware software. There has been no registration required, no trials with an expiration date or required renewals. But Microsoft, in the past at least, has restricted the MSE download (both the beta and final) to PCs running Genuine Windows (which has been authenticated as non-pirated).