Best Antivirus Software for 2024: The best antivirus Software to protect your phones, computers, and other devices from virus and malware invasions. Since a PC can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, it is an expensive purchase that should be given additional security once in your possession. Even the priciest computers require defense against various malware and virus assaults. Monitoring the general condition of your computer can help prevent data loss and potentially prevent an expensive repair bill in the future. Not only that, but con artists are becoming increasingly skilled every day, so your personal information is also vulnerable. Using the best antivirus Software you can afford is a great way to ward against these issues.

Based on the most recent Statcounter data, Windows is the most widely used operating system, powering more than 70% of laptops and desktop computers. Because there are so many devices, cybercriminals can launch an increasing number of malware and virus attacks specifically designed to target Windows. Thus, Windows is compatible with all of our antivirus recommendations.

Note: Antivirus providers often offer low introductory prices to entice you to sign up for their services, so pricing can be confusing. The amount you pay for the service may increase significantly (sometimes by double the introductory rate) after the first billing period, which is usually one or two years, depending on the plan you purchase. Make sure you review the subscription plan terms before purchasing to avoid any unpleasant surprises when your subscription renews.

Best antivirus software of 2024

Microsoft Defender

You can probably prevent ransomware and zero-day attacks if you practise safe computing, which includes using strong passwords (created with the aid of a password manager), avoiding unsolicited emails, and not clicking on dubious links that could be phishing attempts. Additionally, if you do let your guard down, you have a safety net against malware protection with the free Microsoft Defender Antivirus Software installed on your Windows computer. It is among the greatest options for antivirus software, in actuality.

(Note: Microsoft rebranded Windows Defender as Microsoft Defender and added additional platforms to its service.) The free antivirus software that comes with Windows is activated by default, the antivirus engine works as it should, and it provides the bare minimum of internet security protection. Microsoft regularly releases new updates. You can adjust the Defender’s level of protection to your preference, which includes the ability to block potentially unwanted apps and safeguard files and folders from ransomware attacks.

When you install third-party antivirus software on Windows 10 or 11, Windows Defender will be automatically disabled. Windows will resume using its antivirus if you remove the third-party protection.

Norton 360 With LifeLock Select

AV-Test, AV-Comparatives, and SE Labs have all given Norton LifeLock excellent ratings for virus and malware detection over the years. For Mac, PC, and mobile devices, Norton Antivirus offers top-notch security software. Products from the company include Norton 360 for Gamers, Norton 360 with LifeLock Select, Norton Secure VPN, and Antivirus Plus. Norton 360 with LifeLock Select subscriptions for 10 devices typically cost $180 annually, but you can save $80 on your first year. Apart from safeguarding your computer and mobile device against malware and viruses, this security suite also offers 100GB of cloud backup, safe browsing tools, a secure VPN, a password manager, parental controls, and LifeLock fraud alert and identity theft protection. Even though those services aren’t always the best in their respective classes, having them all in one package is a tempting choice. In addition to a full refund “within 60 days of purchase for annual subscriptions and 14 days of purchase for monthly subscriptions,” Norton’s website offers a complimentary seven-day trial of the suite.

Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition

It’s difficult to top Bitdefender’s free antivirus software for Windows 10 and 11 if you want to increase PC security without breaking the bank. Real-time virus, malware, spyware, and ransomware protection is provided by the Windows security software. Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition is uncomplicated to install and remains out of the way until required. Additionally, this antivirus software provides strong protection. The reputable AV-Test independent testing lab continuously awards Bitdefender antivirus software with the highest ratings for both usability and antivirus protection. One Windows PC is protected by the free antivirus version. You can select Bitdefender Antivirus Plus or Bitdefender Total Security for more comprehensive protection. With the subscription antivirus suite, you can run a VPN, set up parental controls on a child’s computer, and protect five or ten devices (Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android).

Malwarebytes

With a respectable defense against malware threats in recent independent testing, Malwarebytes guards your computer against viruses and malware attacks. But Malwarebytes isn’t recognized for that. Many people use Malwarebytes as their first choice disinfectant if they find themselves in trouble. For $38 per year, normally $45, you can get protection and disinfection for a single device. A year’s worth of antivirus software costs $100 and covers five devices, any combination of Windows, MacOS, and Android. Download this trial version to get the antivirus company’s free antivirus version. After 14 days, it “downgrades” to a no-cost on-demand cleaner with fewer features that find and get rid of malware and viruses.

McAfee Total Protection

McAfee Antivirus seems to have existed forever—first on its own in the 1980s, then as a division of Intel beginning in 2010, and then once more when Intel spun it off in 2017. Furthermore, McAfee Total Protection has endured for decades because it consistently produces reliable, up-to-date antivirus software that safeguards your computer. (It received high marks for both performance and protection in the most recent AV-Test evaluations.) In addition to protecting devices from viruses and ransomware, McAfee Total Protection blocks malicious websites and, for $50 for the first year, comes with a password manager. The antivirus suite subscription that automatically renews gives you access to McAfee ID Theft Protection Essentials, which keeps an eye out for identity theft.

Trend Micro Maximum Security

Due to its emphasis on enterprise security, Trend Micro may not be as well-known to consumers; however, with its Trend Micro Maximum Security products, the company discreetly brings its business expertise to the home. AV-Test consistently rates Trend Micro’s software highly for its ability to identify malware, viruses, and zero-day attacks. Additionally, Trend Micro performs a fantastic job of not straining system resources.

ESET NOD32 Antivirus

ESET NOD32 antivirus might be what you need if you’re searching for something simple to install and operate. It provides strong virus protection and receives excellent usability ratings. With a 30-day free trial, the annual cost for a five-device plan is $60.

Sophos Home

With the company’s highly regarded anti-malware tool, you can protect 10 Windows PCs or MacOS devices from viruses with the free antivirus version of Sophos Home. Additionally, you can use the tool for free for an unlimited number of Android and iOS devices and get a 30-day trial of the company’s malware removal tool. Normally, annual subscriptions run $60, but you can now sign up for less.

Antivirus basics: What to look for

When choosing the best antivirus Software for Windows, look for one that protects your computer, uses little system resources, is simple to use, and disappears until you need it. What you should search for is listed here.

Productivity:

Virus scans for known viruses and malware are conducted by antivirus software, which can provide real-time protection. To keep you out of trouble, it also keeps an eye out for dubious websites and dubious links. Additionally, it can monitor unusual activity that might indicate the presence of newly discovered viruses and malware and provide ransomware protection. Antivirus software that can properly detect these unfamiliar online threats without raising an excessive number of false positives is what you need.

Light on system resources:

Antivirus software that strains your computer’s resources is not what you want. Try using a different service if, after installing the Software, files take longer to copy, apps download or open slowly, or websites open slowly. The good news is that you can test out each of our recommendations for antivirus Software for free or with a money-back guarantee. However, if your system still feels slow after installation, you might want to look elsewhere.

Cost and discounts:

Don’t merely buy antivirus software at the suggested retail price. Look for sales on a company’s website before making a purchase. An additional method of saving money is to use antivirus packages if you only need to cover three or five devices. The prices we’ve listed above are for ten devices, assuming the company offers that package. Discounts might also be available on the Amazon page of an app.

Privacy:

Antivirus software must keep an eye on your computer’s activities, communicate with business servers regarding strange activity, and offer reliable banking protection to be considered effective. According to the companies, they take every precaution to ensure your privacy by anonymizing this technical data. However, the security firms on our list have privacy policies posted on their websites; you can review these to find out more about how the companies handle the data you provide.

Protection for other platforms: By far the most common target for malware and viruses is Microsoft. However, Android comes in second place, with less than 1% of apps in the potentially harmful app, or PHA, category installed on Android devices that have Google Play Protect enabled.

Because Apple maintains strict control over its app stores, there is little threat to MacOS and especially not to iOS. Although side-loaded apps occasionally pose a threat to the Mac, you should be safe without antivirus Software on Apple devices if you download apps exclusively from the Mac and iOS app stores and exercise caution when clicking links and downloading files.