Microsoft has announced the release of the beta for the next version of its Microsoft Security Essentials.  The software will include a few changes and enhancements to the original release of its free, light weight anti-malware service, back in September 2009.

Designed to help address the ongoing security needs of PCs running Windows, by protecting users from viruses, spyware and other malicious nasties, this beta version includes an updated anti-malware engine that is said to offer better performance and to be smarter at detecting and removing security threats.

Security Essentials will now integrate directly with Windows Firewall, giving users the option of turning the firewall off or on during setup.

Another new feature is the ability to integrate with Internet Explorer, providing enhanced protection against threats coming from the web and stopping malicious scripts from running immediately.

The current version of the Microsoft Security Essentials application is only capable of discovering these scripts when they are in the cache of Internet Explorer, which for this type of threats may be well too late.

Windows Vista and Windows 7 users will appreciate the built in feature of the network protection system, which offers protection against network-based exploits.

The network inspection system feature is not enabled on Windows XP, due to the Windows Filtering Platform that is required for it to operate not being available on XP.

The new version can be downloaded from the Microsoft Connect page, by registering for the beta version.  Once registered, you will be able to download either a 32-bit or 64-bit version, and installation instructions. The beta version is accessible to genuine Windows users on a first come, first serve basis until the allocated numbers for the beta have been reached.

Pledging to keep the beta current and up to date with the latest virus and malware definitions, Microsoft will provide ongoing updates to the beta version by subscription to the Microsoft Update service.  Setting your preferences to download updates automatically will ensure your system is always up to date.

With the initial release of Security Essentials back in 2009 receiving generally positive feedback, and good reviews from the likes of CNET and AV-Test, it may be worth your while downloading the beta and taking it for a run.  Reportedly easy to use and provided at no cost to users, it should be given some consideration.

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