Malwarebytes 3.0 beta is now available

Malwarebytes has unveiled a beta of its next-generation, do-everything product, Malwarebytes 3.0.

The package combines anti-malware, anti-exploit, anti-ransomware and web blocking technologies for the maximum all-round protection.

This does make for a slightly more complex interface, but it’s straightforward and much like any other security suite: an opening dashboard displays your security status, there’s a Scan button if you’re worried, and usually that’s all you need to know.

You’re still going to notice some major improvements. Despite all the extra security layers, for instance, Malwarebytes says system scans are now three to four times faster.

If you’re an experienced user who likes to fine-tune software, there’s an array of options, switches and settings to explore.

To take just one area of the program, novices can turn the anti-exploit module on and off with a click. But hit "Advanced Settings" and you can configure six separate six component technologies (DEP, anti-heapspraying, ASLR, more), eight memory protection methods, five application behavior checks, five Java technologies, as well as individually defining the types of apps where these will be used (browsers, Office, PDF readers, media players, more).

As usual with Malwarebytes, the product runs happily alongside other security tools. We installed it on a system with Avira Antivirus and didn’t notice any conflicts at all.

There is one potential issue to consider. The installer will automatically update an existing Malwarebytes installation with Malwarebytes 3.0, so once the beta expires (after 14 days) you’ll have to manually restore your previous build.

That aside, Malwarebytes 3.0 looks like a very promising tool. Take a look.

Malwarebytes 3.0 runs on Windows XP or later (the anti-exploit technology requires at least Windows 7).