So, you want to try the Microsoft Security Essential Beta? Well, assuming that you have a current backup, here’s what you need to do.
First, point the web browser on your Windows (Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7) box to this webstite: http://www.microsoft.com/security_essentials/ and you better be in the US, UK, Brazil, China, or Israel to try the beta. If you’re not in one of those countries, you shouldn’t be able to download the beta. But I’m in Canada and I had no issues downloading it. So take that for what it’s worth.
You’ll also need to sign in with a Live account to get access to the beta as well. Oh yeah, your computer will have to pass a Genuine Advantage check. So if you got your OS from the back of a truck, you won’t be downloading the beta.
There is one thing that does bother me. In the End User License Agreement, there’s this:
When you install the software, Microsoft SpyNet allows users to become part of a network community of users that report spyware and other forms of Potentially Unwanted Software to Microsoft. Upon initial installation, users will be opted-in by default to participate in Microsoft SpyNet under a “basic” membership, which allows the software to report potential threats identified in the software that have not yet been analyzed for risks. The reports include information about the files or programs in question.
The fact that I’m forced to sign up to something by installing this doesn’t exactly give me the warm fuzzies. But at least you know about it up front before you get in too deep.
If you’ve tried this and you’ve got feedback, please post a comment.
UPDATE: If you haven’t got the beta, it’s too late now. The beta was limited to 75,000 people and all the spots are taken. No word if that’s going to be expanded or if it’s going to be available in other countries.