Microsoft Security Essentials 4.4.304.0 has been released.
Download
MS does not have release notes for MSE.
Security
LastPass 3.0
Win 8.1 support, new features, new design.
See: LastPass 3.0 Is Here: New Design, New Features!
Download
Java Updated
Java has been updated version 7u45 (1.7.0_45). Security update, listed Critical.
Release Notes
Downloads:
Jave 7 Runtime (this is most people will use).
Java 7 JDK
Java has proved to be horribly insecure. I have removed it from all my computers and no longer use programs that require it.
See:
Java Security at Wikipedia
Ed Bott – A close look at how Oracle installs deceptive software with Java updates
Google “java security” for more.
Microsoft Says They Are Serious About Microsoft Antimalware
The Security Essentials is designed to be bottom of the antivirus rankings story broke 2 weeks ago.
In response, Microsoft states: Our commitment to Microsoft antimalware.
Source: Mark Russinovich via Twitter
We are fully committed to protecting our consumer and business customers from malware. Our strong solutions provide the comprehensive defense needed against malicious code and attacks. Our support of antimalware partners helps in building a strong and diverse ecosystem to fight malware…We believe in Microsoft antimalware products and strongly recommend them to our customers, to our friends, and to our families.
Time To Run Windows Update
Updates available for XP through 8.1 and Office 2003 through 2013.
Microsoft Security Bulletin Advance Notification for October 2013
How To Find The Best Anti-Virus For You
Anti-virus software is not a security panacea. Additionally, IMHO there is no “best” anti-virus.
Here are some links to help you find what is best for you.
AV-Comparatives – Real-World Protection Tests
Virus Bulletin – Latest Comparative
PC Mag – The Best Antivirus for 2013
Personally, I would not pay for an AV solution as I think the free versions of these programs are good enough. (I am NOT a security expert.)
If you want the full (pay-for) versions there are often deals that make these programs free after rebate.
Try the usual deal sites, Techbargains, or Newegg.
See also:
Why Antivirus Software Isn’t Enough To Fend Off Attacks
Security Essentials is designed to be bottom of the antivirus rankings
Microsoft: Security Essentials is designed to be bottom of the antivirus rankings
Now, Microsoft has said it sees Security Essentials as merely the first layer of protection, advising customers to use additional, third-party antivirus – although the company stressed that wasn’t because the product wasn’t good enough to stand on its own.
Update For IE Flash Player For Windows 8
If you’re using Windows 8 or 8.1 there is a security update available via Windows Update.
Microsoft Security Advisory (2755801) – Update for Vulnerabilities in Adobe Flash Player in Internet Explorer
Update for Internet Explorer Flash Player for Windows 8 (KB2889543)
Update for Internet Explorer Flash Player for Windows 8 x64 (KB2889543)
Update for Internet Explorer Flash Player for Windows 8.1 (KB2889543)
Update for Internet Explorer Flash Player for Windows 8.1 for x64-based Systems (KB2889543)
Time To Run Windows Update
Updates available for XP, 2K3, Vista, 2K8, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows RT, Office 2K3-2K13, etc.
Microsoft Security Bulletin Summary for September 2013
How many updates you have will vary by what you have installed. I had 24 updates on Windows 7 and 25 on Windows 8.
Microsoft Digital Citizenship Infographics
This post dedicated to @thurrott. 
“Each infographic offers relevant statistics of current negative online behaviors and helpful tips for correcting and preventing them, offering one each for tweens, teens, and parents.”
I’m not a parent, teen, or tween so I can’t vouch for the helpfulness of this stuff.
I can say after looking at the infographics, every time Microsoft tries to do “cool” it equals FAIL.
Download one or all:
Is Your Teen a Good Digital Citizen parent infographic PDF.pdf
Bing_for_Schools_infographic.jpg
Student Body Language tween infographic PDF.pdf
The Naked Truth teen infographic PDF.pdf
Using Parental Controls survey results infographic PDF.pdf