Microsoft is planning to release to the public a new version of its free antivirus software (Microsoft Security Essentials a.k.a MSE) by the end of the year. But the software maker is already accepting invitations for users that want to participate in the Beta program.

Users that have participated in the previous Beta of MSE test program are already receiving invitations for the next test program from Microsoft Connect. In the case you were a tester in the past, you should look in your inbox for the invitation that reads:

If you didn’t received an invitation and you are interested on participating on the program to try out and help to improve Security Essentials, you should sign up now on Microsoft Connect, because Microsoft is only allowing a handful of users to test the Beta program.

Thank you so much for being a part of the Microsoft Security Essentials v2 Beta. You have indicated that you are interested in receiving invites for Connect programs from Microsoft, so we would like to invite you to participate in the Microsoft Security Essentials Public Beta program on Microsoft Connect. This program is for the newest Beta version of Microsoft Security Essentials which has the latest protection features. Be one of the select few who get access to this Beta release by signing up now to reserve your spot!

Microsoft plans to include a good number of enhancements with this new version:

  • Enhanced protection through automatic malware remediation – The Beta will clean high-impact malware infections automatically, with no required user interaction.
  • Enhanced performance – The Beta includes many performance improvements to make sure your PC performance isn’t negatively impacted.
  • Simplified UI – Simplified UI makes Microsoft Security Essentials Beta easier to use.
  • New and improved protection engine – The updated engine offers enhanced detection and cleanup capabilities.

As in Microsoft Security Essentials 2 is compatible with Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP, and protects users from a wide range of malicious software (virus, spyware, trojan, worms, etc.); there is a good chance that the software maker will keep the same compatibility support, with the addition of compatibility for Windows 8, but with the difference that MSE will be integrated right into the operating system.

Source Microsoft Malware Protection Center