Microsoft has released a new free beta version of its OneCare security service, featuring firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware.

The Beta test version of Windows Live OneCare 2.0 provides protection against viruses, spyware and phishing, and also includes a firewall.

The service updates itself to protect against the latest threats and also automates many common PC security and maintenance tasks.

OneCare has features to make it easier to manage multiple PCs and home networks, along with printer sharing.

There is also a Start-time optimizer which speeds up PC boot times by removing rarely used programs from the Startup menu.

OneCare allows users to backup photos online in a secure location in Windows Live Folders.

The level of security provided by Windows Live OneCare has been criticized in the past, but Microsoft hopes to address these concerns with the new 2.0 version.