My malware is not working...

I have purchased Trend Micro virus protection for my laptop- but due to some error, I was notified by Best Buy that it was not functioning. 2 weeks later I am still waiting for it to be re-installed. I feel vulnerable, but my question is this: How effective is it, when fully functional, at repelling viruses, trojans, bots, worms, etc. I was so tempted to click on the "Attack Site!" anyway-- and see what was there. I just wonder if having the protective Trend Micro is like wearing asbestos? Or is it imperfect-- and by what percent is it ineffective?