Bitdefender, similar to PC tools AOSS and Norton Recovery Tool, has also released a full featured rescue CD.  However, the Bitdefender version is by far the most comprehensive and easy to use rescue free antivirus available yet.  First, the software loads a full featured Knoppix Linux operating system which even includes a Firefox web browser and extra rootkit scanner etc.  The best part is the Bitdefender Scanner GUI is identical to the Windows version in every way.   Users will be bound to be confused whether they are actually using the Bitdefender Knoppix version or just a Windows desktop.  Bitdefender even included a custom wall paper with their company logo and custom icons such as “start here” to make the process even more intuitive.  The opening screen is and has large “scan”, “update”, and “settings button” .  The license is completely free and is set for 101 days upon opening the program.  The license can be updated as easily as setting the “Set New Key”.  In addition updating is as easy as clicking update signatures and the software will automatically download the latest updates.

    This free Knoppix version got me thinking.  What actually installing Knoppix Bitdefender on a dedicated office machine or computer within a LAN. Then , have the “server” scan all of networked machines C drives scheduled daily.  One could then run multiple rescue CD “operating systems” on a single server. This would essentially give a LAN free up to date server antivirus at almost zero cost.  The point is to use one’s imagination and there are more free options than there first appear to be.

Download the Bitdefender Rescue Free Antivirus