Microsoft OneCare Far from #1

A recent article in PC Magazine shares the research that Microsoft’s OneCare product finished dead-last in side-by-side comparisons to other anti-virus software.

“We recently learned that AV Comparatives conducted tests on Windows Live OneCare and the service did not pass their testing criteria,” a Microsoft spokesman said. “We are looking closely at the methodology and results of the test to ensure that Windows Live OneCare performs better in future tests. We will also determine whether any learnings from these tests can be used to improve our services as part of our ongoing work to continually enhance Windows Live OneCare to ensure the highest level of protection and service that we can provide our customers.

This hurts me really. I love the integration of OneCare into the rest of the operating system and feel like it’s a no-brainer to use this type of product on your machines. I believe the multi-use agreement allowing you to install it on up to three machines with a single purchase price. I recently purchased it at Best Buy for $49.99.

It’s a great price for protection on three machines, but doesn’t seem like you’re getting much protection according to the study in the article. Given the response above, let’s hope that Microsoft jumps on these issues and starts rolling out some streaming updates as quickly as possible.