How to identify a anti-virus software is good or not?

I linked you to the how to protect youself from malware " in my post here which I am sure you will find beneficial.

I prefer to use free anti virus because i believe it does just as much if not more than the paid for suites. Suites are renowned for being greedy on resources, most people prefer a layered approach which basically means picking your own anti virus and then choosing some anti-spyware applications to run in conjunction nicely alongside it. This as well as sensible surfing practices is plenty to keep you safe.