Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 2.00 Public Beta

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware (MBAM) has long been a favorite, not only of mine but also by members of the security community.  In fact, one look at the names included in the Staff list is certainly evidence of that support with names long associated with security experts and developers of early tools. 

For that reason, when I had the opportunity to test-drive the early (non-public) beta, I didn't hesitate.  Although MBAM has yet to detect any malware or PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) on my computer, I credit that to the real-time protection incorporated in the PRO version which dynamically blocks malware sites and servers and includes malware execution prevention.

What's New

But, enough of the reasons why I like Malwarebytes and on to the announcement about the public beta available for Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 2.0.  Following are some of the changes incorporated in the redesigned version:

• Redesigned user interface
• Built in and improved the Anti-Rootkit and Chameleon self-protection technologies
• Rewritten Malicious Website Blocking
• Improved native x64 support
• Detection and removal engine was significantly improved under the hood

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware PRO License Change

At launch, Malwarebytes will be moving to a subscription licensing model of $24.95 per year for Malwarebytes Anti-Malware PRO.  Unlike the current license terms, the license will be valid for three computers. 

Marcin explained the reason for this change as the cost of doing business due to the popularity of the program:

"As more and more people have come to rely on us for malware protection and cleanup, our costs in bandwidth, hosting fees, infrastructure, salaries of our researchers, QA department, and more have grown immensely. Though our company is about more than just making money, we are a company and we do have to make money to pay our staff to continue doing what they love, which is fighting malware. The subscription model will help us to be sustainable for the future while staying true to our roots that we will always make malware cleanup free for everyone."

Note:  Lifetime licenses for version 1.x will continue to be honored with that license converted to a lifetime license for version 2.x. In addition, Malwarebytes will also be offering a few thousand more lifetime licenses during launch.

Reminders

1. Beta Software:  As "SpyDie", a long time friend has always said:

Beta. Software undergoes beta testing shortly before it's released. Beta is Latin for 'still doesn't work.'

Thus, although I have personally not had any problems with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 2.0 beta, it is important to remember that beta software should not be run on production machines.

2.  Prior to installing the 2.0 beta, uninstall Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 1.75, including a shutdown/restart.

3. Testing the beta requires the use of a temporary license key.  If you have a Malwarebytes Anti-Malware PRO license, be sure to make a note of the license key so that you can add it when the final version is released.

The download link and temporary license are available from the reference below.

References:

• Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 2.00 Beta Test -- DOWNLOAD
• Malwarebytes Anti-Malware 2.00 Beta Test -- KNOWN ISSUES

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