SUNNYVALE, CA--(Marketwired - Oct 9, 2014) - Baidu (NASDAQ: BIDU), the world's leading Chinese search engine and developer of award-winning PC, Web and mobile products, today announced the release of version 5.0 of Baidu Antivirus 2015. The popular PC security software recently surpassed 70 million users worldwide, and version 5.0 continues its tradition of offering light, fast and free cloud-based protection. To this end, the new version of Baidu Antivirus has been optimized to deliver 20 percent faster QuickScan speeds even while using significantly less RAM than before.

In addition to its significant performance enhancements, Baidu Antivirus 2015 has a completely redesigned interface to make detection and eradication of PC threats easier and more intuitive. A new Malicious Plug-In Cleaner now detects and eliminates nefarious browser plug-ins such as one recently discovered by the Baidu Security Team called 'Search Protect' which disguises itself as an Adobe Player update, and the fake Evernote Web plug-in which can cause an unwanted increase in pop-up ads on users' PCs. Further information on these and other malicious plug-ins discovered by the Baidu Security Team can be found at http://antivirus.baidu.com/en/newslist.php.

Additional standout features of Baidu Antivirus 2015 include:

  • Advanced Cloud Engine -- Baidu Antivirus cross-checks suspicious files against its extensive virus database in the cloud to ensure that your computer is always protected against the latest threats

  • Ad Blocker -- A powerful, customizable Ad Blocker that keeps annoying ads from interrupting your browsing

  • Enhanced System Repair Tool -- Quickly repair systems damaged by especially stubborn viruses

  • Optimized Installer -- Baidu Antivirus's installer is now 25 percent smaller for quicker download and installation

As in previous versions, Baidu Antivirus 2015 continues to offer five layers of real-time, proactive security including System, Webpage, USB Device and Download protection along with its leading cloud-based scanning that eliminates the need to download periodic virus signature updates.

Baidu Antivirus 2015 is a 100 percent free product that never requires annual subscriptions or download costs. Download it at http://antivirus.baidu.com.

About Baidu
 Baidu, Inc. is the leading Chinese language Internet search provider and developer of award-winning PC, Web and mobile products. As a technology-based media company, Baidu aims to provide the best and most equitable way for people to find what they are looking for. In addition to serving individual Internet search users, Baidu provides an effective platform for businesses to reach potential customers. Baidu's ADSs trade on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol "BIDU." Currently, ten ADSs represent one Class A ordinary share.