Redmond-based software giant Microsoft announced on Monday that its anti-malware service aimed at offering consumers protection against viruses, spyware and other malicious software, dubbed Microsoft Security Essentials, would become available for download from the company's website starting today, September 29, 2009.

According to Microsoft, its new solution has been certified by West Coast Labs, includes the same core security technology that can be spotted in its solutions aimed at businesses, and will benefit from support from its global security response team. Users will have the opportunity to download and try out Microsoft Security Essentials without having to register for it.

“Consumers have told us that they want the protection of real-time security software but we know that too many are either unwilling or unable to pay for it, and so end up unprotected,” said Amy Barzdukas, general manager for consumer security at Microsoft. “With Microsoft Security Essentials, consumers can get high-quality protection that is easy to get and easy to use – and it won’t get in their way.”

All owners of genuine Windows-based PCs will be enabled to enjoy the features offered by Microsoft's new security solution, a move driven by the company's commitment to deliver a more secure experience to all of its users. While this solution is aimed mainly at end-users, the company will continue to offer its Forefront Client Security for businesses.

The software giant also announced that Microsoft Security Essentials would be available for use on Windows XP SP2 or SP3-based computers, as well as on those running under Windows Vista and Windows 7, whether 32-bit or 64-bit. Microsoft's Windows XP mode also offers support for the security solution, the company stated, adding that Microsoft Security Essentials would come in eight languages, to 19 countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

UPDATE: The Microsoft Security Essentials is already available for download.