Microsoft Security Essentials (codenamed Morro) is free antivirus software created by Microsoft that provides protection against viruses, spyware, rootkits, and trojans for Windows XP, Vista, and 7. Currently in beta testing, it was available for download to the first 75,000 people in the United States, Israel, People's Republic of China and Brazil. MSE replaces Windows Live OneCare — a subscription antivirus service — and Windows Defender, which only protects users from adware and spyware.

MSE is a small-footprint program ideal for computers that lack processing power or broadband Internet connections, such as netbooks. Symantec and McAfee, two major antivirus vendors responded with criticism, claiming MSE was not comparable with their own offerings. AVG Technologies viewed MSE positively, stating it reinforced the company's ideal of free antivirus software.

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