Microsoft has released its free security software Security Essentials. Available for download at microsoft.com/security_essentials the software claims to be built on technology that the global software giant uses in computer security programs it designs for businesses.

The press release says that Security Essentials, consumers can get high-quality protection that is easy to get and easy to use, and it won't get in their way. Microsoft hopes that the free software will be adopted, particularly by those who have been lax about protecting computers from hackers. Security Essentials is designed to run behind the scenes, defending machines against infection by malicious computer codes.

The software is automatically kept up-to-date regarding viruses. Rival security outfit Symantec downplayed the Microsoft offering, saying it is lightweight and isn't tuned for new forms of attack being used by hackers. It claims that Security Essentials as a stripped-down version of an old Microsoft OneCare product that got poor ratings.