Antivirus Software:
In 2025, choosing the best antivirus software is more important than ever for safeguarding your PC from the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. With the internet teeming with malware, ransomware, and phishing attempts, having a robust antivirus solution is crucial to protect your personal data and devices. Hackers and cybercriminals continuously develop new methods to access your files, steal sensitive information, or hold your data for ransom, demanding a hefty price for its release. The right antivirus acts as your first line of defense, preventing these malicious intrusions.
When selecting the best antivirus software, it’s essential to evaluate how well it integrates with different operating systems, its effectiveness in detecting and blocking harmful files, and how quickly it can isolate and alert users to threats. Many antivirus solutions also offer additional features such as identity theft protection, password managers, and VPNs, which add an extra layer of security to your online activities.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of the top antivirus software options available in 2025, including both free and premium versions, as well as options tailored for Apple users. We also provide insights into how to make the best choice based on your specific needs, including system compatibility, threat detection performance, and extra features.
By investing in the right antivirus software, you’re not only protecting your PC from immediate threats, but also ensuring long-term security for your personal and financial information. Read on to find the antivirus solution that best suits your needs and enjoy peace of mind in today’s digital world.
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The best antivirus services in 2025
Whether you’re looking for the total antivirus package or hunting for specific features, like banking protection, my guide has you covered. Keep reading to check out my top 10 favorite antivirus solutions.
The best antivirus overall
1. Bitdefender Total Security
Specifications:
- Multi-layered ransomware protection
- Advanced threat defense
- VPN included (limited data with standard plans)
- Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS)
- Free trial for 30 Days
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent malware detection rates
- Minimal impact on system performance
- User-friendly interface
- Free for Android
Reasons to Avoid:
- VPN has limited data unless upgraded
- Advanced features may overwhelm novice users
Features:
- Real-time protection, safe banking tools, a secure browser, password manager, and parental controls.
When to Use:
- Ideal for users who need comprehensive protection for multiple devices and want a seamless experience.
When Not to Use:
- If you require unlimited VPN data or simpler tools, consider alternatives.
Bitdefender continues to stand out in the cybersecurity space with its exceptional ability to detect and neutralize threats in real-time. The software ensures malware is blocked before it even begins to download, eliminates intrusive web trackers, and promptly warns you when attempting to visit a site known for hosting malicious content. Its proactive approach has earned high marks from AV-Comparatives, an independent testing lab, which reported that Bitdefender blocked 99.4% of threats—ranking just behind top competitors like Norton and McAfee. Additionally, the program has a minimal impact on system performance, allowing for smooth operation.
During my own testing, Bitdefender successfully stopped ransomware before it could cause any damage to my files. However, I noticed that the Ransomware Remediation feature isn’t activated by default. To ensure your data stays safe, you’ll need to enable it manually in the settings.
Bitdefender offers three pricing tiers, each packed with valuable security features. For those looking for comprehensive protection, the Total Security plan is the best choice. This package includes a suite of tools such as a safe banking feature, a limited VPN, social media protection, a file shredder, parental controls, and more. It also boasts a vulnerability scanner that identifies weak points in your network and offers actionable suggestions for strengthening your defenses. What’s more, Bitdefender works seamlessly across multiple devices, with easy-to-use apps available for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Families can benefit from the ability to use up to 10 licenses, offering widespread protection.
Upon installation, Bitdefender immediately begins a full system scan, thoroughly searching for any existing threats. While this scan took almost an hour to complete on my 50 GB system, it’s a comprehensive and essential first step. Bitdefender allows for customization of scans, so you can schedule them or initiate on-demand scans for specific files. A Quick Scan option is also available and can be set to run daily or weekly.
One of the highlights of Bitdefender is its user-friendly interface, which even newcomers to antivirus software will find intuitive and easy to navigate. The sleek design and customizable dashboard make it simple to adjust the layout, removing or adding features based on personal preferences. Most of the essential security features are already enabled out of the box, so users don’t have to worry about spending time configuring every setting. However, for those who want additional guidance, Bitdefender provides helpful in-app tutorials to maximize the use of its various privacy-enhancing tools.
Bitdefender’s Total Security plan is priced at $39.99 for the first year, though this price increases to $95 after the initial term. However, the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service and see if it meets their expectations before committing long-term.
In summary, Bitdefender provides a robust suite of tools to safeguard your devices from a variety of online threats. With its combination of real-time protection, minimal impact on system speed, and a wide range of features, it remains a top contender for those seeking comprehensive and easy-to-use cybersecurity.
Best antivirus with ID protection
2. Norton 360 Select with LifeLock
Specifications:
- Identity theft monitoring
- VPN with unlimited data
- Password manager
- Parental controls
Today’s Best Deals:
- Norton 360 Deluxe frequently offers deals that include multi-device licenses and added storage for backups.
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent for identity theft protection
- Comprehensive feature set
- Reliable customer support
Reasons to Avoid:
- Slightly expensive compared to competitors
- Some features require a learning curve
Features:
- Real-time protection, dark web monitoring, and secure cloud storage.
When to Use:
- Best for families and professionals who prioritize data security and privacy.
When Not to Use:
- If budget constraints are a concern, there are more affordable options.
Norton has earned a stellar reputation for its robust defense against cyber threats, consistently earning high marks in independent protection tests, including our own evaluations. Its comprehensive suite of features is designed to safeguard all your devices—whether it’s a smartphone, laptop, or tablet—with a single subscription. No matter which plan you choose, you’ll benefit from an impressive range of tools aimed at defending against malware, cybercriminals, and malicious websites.
What truly sets Norton apart is its ability to detect threats. In my own trials, as well as those from AV-Comparatives, Norton successfully blocked all malware attempts before they had a chance to infect the system. For users who want to dig deeper, Norton provides a valuable tool called Insight, which allows you to investigate individual files to see if there are any hidden threats. This feature is especially useful when dealing with new strains of malware that might not be immediately recognizable.
Norton also excels in blocking dangerous websites, preventing you from accidentally visiting harmful pages. If you attempt to access a site flagged as malicious, Norton will display a warning message, along with information about the malware and a list of other sites that share the same threat. The Safe Web browser extension further enhances this by providing site ratings directly on your search results, so you can easily avoid suspicious domains.
In addition to its powerful protective features, Norton is dedicated to helping users become more adept at identifying potential threats. The company has introduced an AI-powered chatbot, known as Norton Genie. This helpful tool allows you to determine whether an email you’ve received is a phishing attempt by simply sending it a screenshot or pasting in some of the email’s content.
While Norton’s VPN service isn’t the top contender in the market, it still offers solid privacy protection. It effectively hides your IP address, keeps your browsing activity private, and can even unblock some popular streaming platforms. Pairing the VPN with Norton’s intelligent firewall adds an extra layer of security, alerting you if any suspicious program attempts to make an internet connection. You’ll be given enough information—such as the program’s age and the website it’s trying to reach—to make a well-informed decision on whether to block or allow the connection.
One factor to consider with Norton is its price point, which is on the higher end, largely due to its inclusion of the LifeLock feature. This identity theft protection goes above and beyond what you might expect from typical antivirus software, offering dark web monitoring and alerting you if your personal details are being misused. In the unfortunate event that your identity is compromised, LifeLock even assists in the recovery process.
It’s important to note that while Norton’s subscription costs do rise after the initial discount period, the extensive array of features you get in return justifies the investment. For those hesitant about committing to a long-term subscription, Norton offers a 7-day free trial. Just be sure to disable auto-renewal to avoid unwanted charges after the trial ends.
In summary, Norton provides a highly reliable and feature-rich security solution that caters to all types of internet users, from everyday individuals to those seeking more advanced identity protection. Its combination of fast scanning, powerful threat detection, and user-friendly tools makes it a strong contender in the antivirus space.
The best antivirus security suite
3. Avast One
Specifications:
- Real-time threat protection
- VPN included
- Gaming mode
- Device cleanup tools
Today’s Best Deals:
- Avast often includes bundled discounts for its premium plans.
Reasons to Buy:
- Gamer-friendly features
- User-friendly design
- Comprehensive protection
Reasons to Avoid:
- Some unnecessary extras included
- Higher cost for premium features
Features:
- Password manager, malware scanner, browser cleanup, and advanced ransomware protection.
When to Use:
- Perfect for gamers and users who need an intuitive security solution.
When Not to Use:
- If you want a minimalistic solution without added tools.
Avast One is the latest offering from the renowned cybersecurity provider, Avast, delivering a robust solution packed with essential malware protection, advanced security features, and the ease of use that users have come to expect from this industry leader. Whether you’re on a Windows, Mac, Android, or iOS device, Avast One ensures your digital environment remains secure across all platforms.
One standout feature of Avast One is its scanning capabilities. Although the scan speeds are fairly standard, taking about 32 minutes to analyze 50GB of executable files, the software offers extensive customization options. Users can fine-tune their scans to suit their needs, with different types of scans available: Smart Scans that quickly check for malware and browser threats, Targeted Scans that focus on specific folders or files, and Full Scans for a comprehensive system check.
When it comes to malware detection and removal, Avast One is exceptional. Its protection is among the best in the industry, with an impressive 99.97% malware detection rate, according to recent testing by AV-Comparatives. This means that you can trust Avast One to keep your device secure, effectively preventing any malicious software from sneaking through unnoticed.
In addition to its powerful antivirus features, Avast One includes a firewall that monitors your network traffic, blocking any potential threats from hackers. It also includes a feature to block access to harmful websites, preventing infections before they occur. A standout feature is its Ransomware Shield, which automatically detects user document folders and adds them to its protection list, further enhancing its security capabilities.
Avast One doesn’t stop there—it also comes with several useful extras that elevate its value. The paid plans include the HideMyAss!-powered SecureLine VPN, which helps protect your online privacy by hiding your location and encrypting your internet connection. While the Essential plan comes with limitations, offering just 5GB of weekly data and a single server location, it still allows you to enjoy secure browsing, even if it’s mainly for casual use like watching Netflix. Upgrading to a higher-tier subscription unlocks more VPN features, including access to over 50 server locations and alerts that notify you when accessing sensitive sites, ensuring your data remains private at all times.
For those seeking comprehensive protection, Avast One also offers a range of additional security tools. Its password manager helps you monitor and secure your login credentials, while parental controls, webcam protection, and anti-phishing tools ensure your digital presence is safe from a wide variety of online threats.
Avast One offers several subscription tiers to suit different needs. The Individual plan covers five devices and grants access to all of the features mentioned above. The Family and Premium plans extend coverage to up to 30 devices, with the Premium plan including identity monitoring to alert you if your personal information is found on the dark web.
For those who want to test the waters before committing, the Essential plan provides a limited, free version of the software, giving users a taste of what Avast One can offer.
In conclusion, Avast One stands out as an all-in-one security solution, combining essential malware protection with advanced tools like VPN, password management, and ransomware defense, all available on multiple devices. Whether you’re looking for basic security or comprehensive protection for your entire family, Avast One offers a plan that suits your needs.
The best antivirus for mobile
4. McAfee+ Premium
Specifications:
- Identity theft protection
- VPN included
- Multi-device compatibility
Reasons to Buy:
- Strong mobile protection
- Reliable malware defense
Reasons to Avoid:
- Expensive compared to alternatives
- Can slow down older devices
Features:
- Safe web browsing, encrypted storage, and anti-phishing tools.
When to Use:
- Ideal for users with a mix of mobile and desktop devices.
When Not to Use:
- If you’re on a tight budget.
McAfee has upgraded its offerings from the traditional Antivirus Plus and Total Protection packages to the new McAfee+ subscription service. While McAfee+ continues to provide the essential malware protection, it goes a step further by introducing enhanced identity theft monitoring tools.
The entry-level McAfee+ Essential plan is designed to safeguard up to five devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and even Chromebook devices. Although it’s the most basic antivirus version, it still comes equipped with several useful features, such as identity theft monitoring, a password manager, a firewall, file shredding capabilities, and unlimited VPN access. This makes it an appealing option for users looking for more than just virus protection.
McAfee has earned top ratings from two prominent independent testing labs for its strong online malware protection. While this is encouraging, users should be aware that the software can be somewhat resource-intensive, which might cause some slowdowns. Although it won’t bring your system to a standstill, it’s worth noting that some more affordable antivirus options tend to have a lighter footprint.
A standout feature of McAfee+ is its comprehensive identity theft prevention suite. The service includes a tool called Online Account Cleanup, which helps users identify which websites and services are storing their personal data. The tool then provides recommendations on which accounts to keep, which to delete, and how to reduce the amount of spam received. Additionally, it will alert users if their information is found on the dark web, offering a layer of proactive protection.
For those looking for more, McAfee offers two upgraded plans: Premium and Advanced. However, the Premium plan doesn’t offer much more than the Essential plan, apart from the ability to perform system scans (though it doesn’t assist in cleaning up any issues found) and providing coverage for an unlimited number of devices. This makes the Premium plan feel somewhat underwhelming for a “premium” offering.
On the other hand, McAfee does an excellent job of protecting families with its tailored protection tools. All family plans come with personalized advice and insight, and the Protection Score feature offers ongoing assessments of each family member’s digital security, providing recommendations to enhance it. This is especially useful for families sharing devices, as McAfee’s parental controls allow parents to manage screen time, block inappropriate content, and even monitor their children’s locations for added peace of mind.
An important feature across all McAfee+ subscriptions is the inclusion of a VPN with no data usage limits. However, it is important to note that this VPN service is only available if you opt into the McAfee auto-renewal program.
Overall, McAfee+ offers a solid blend of malware protection, identity theft prevention, and family-friendly tools. While the Premium plan may not offer much more than the Essential one, the comprehensive identity protection and family security features make McAfee+ a competitive choice in the antivirus market.
The best antivirus with network protection
5. F-Secure Total
Specifications:
- Home network security
- Easy device management
Reasons to Buy:
- Great for smart device security
- Easy to set up and use
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited advanced features
Features:
- Smart device scanning, home network monitoring.
When to Use:
- Best for tech-savvy households with smart devices.
When Not to Use:
- If you need traditional antivirus for a single device.
F-Secure has undergone significant improvements since I first began testing antivirus solutions. It has enhanced its ability to detect and block malware while running more efficiently on your system. However, its standout feature is undoubtedly its network protection.
This tool diligently monitors your internet connection, keeping an eye on your router’s activity and everything connected to your Wi-Fi network. It’s designed to spot any unusual behavior and prevent potential security breaches from hackers attempting to exploit vulnerabilities. Essentially, it acts as an early warning system, alerting you before any real damage can occur.
F-Secure isn’t just about network security. It also offers robust protection against various digital threats, earning accolades from leading testing organizations like AV-TEST. The antivirus suite effectively combats ransomware, spyware, and online trackers. It even goes a step further, alerting you if your passwords are weak or reused across multiple sites. One feature I particularly appreciate is its ability to notify you if any of your accounts or services have been compromised, empowering you to take swift action and secure your personal information.
Like many of the top-tier antivirus services, F-Secure includes a built-in VPN. While it may not compete with premium VPN providers like ExpressVPN in terms of features, it still offers valuable protection. This is particularly useful for securing sensitive transactions like online shopping, banking, or connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, adding an extra layer of security.
Setting up F-Secure is fairly straightforward. The installation process is guided, though the number of steps can feel overwhelming for beginners. Additionally, while the configuration of its various features could be more intuitive, the overall setup remains manageable.
One of the highlights of F-Secure is its customer support. Unlike many antivirus providers, F-Secure offers 24/7 live chat support. If you run into any complex issues, agents are readily available to assist you, and in some cases, they can remotely access your device to resolve problems directly.
In summary, F-Secure offers a comprehensive and reliable solution for securing your digital life, with added benefits like its network protection and live support. Although there is room for improvement in the user interface, its features and support make it a strong contender in the antivirus space.
The best of the rest
6. Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security
Specifications:
- Fraud detection
- Ransomware protection
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent for online shoppers
Reasons to Avoid:
- Not as feature-rich as competitors
Features:
- Browser security, anti-phishing tools.
When to Use:
- Ideal for users prioritizing financial security.
When Not to Use:
- If you need all-round protection.
Trend Micro Antivirus+ may not be at the top of everyone’s antivirus list, but it stands out as a straightforward, user-friendly option. With a clean, intuitive interface, it’s easy to navigate—just hit the Scan button to start, or use the simple icons to access various features and tools.
When it comes to protection, Trend Micro performs decently. Test labs and our own evaluation gave it an average score. While opinions on its effectiveness are divided, I found it quite competent at detecting and stopping malware and ransomware. Unlike some other antivirus programs, it didn’t produce the excessive number of false positives that other reviewers have mentioned. However, your experience may vary based on your specific needs and environment. That said, the basic protective measures are solid.
One standout feature is the Pay Guard tool. This feature offers an added layer of security when making online transactions involving sensitive financial and personal information, such as online banking and shopping. With cybercriminals constantly targeting these transactions, Pay Guard helps safeguard your details from being intercepted or stolen.
As for weaknesses, Trend Micro does tend to slow down system performance more than some of its competitors. Additionally, it lacks the extensive feature set found in other antivirus programs. While this simplicity can be a benefit for those who want an easy-to-use solution, more experienced users may feel the lack of customization options. Most of the tools are either on or off, with little room for fine-tuning.
You can, however, enhance the functionality by opting for higher-tier plans. Trend Micro Internet Security, for example, includes extra features such as parental controls and social media protection. For those seeking a more comprehensive security suite, Trend Micro Maximum Security is the best value, offering protection across Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, and even Chromebook devices. It also includes additional features like a password manager and secure file vault.
In terms of pricing, Trend Micro Antivirus+ is quite affordable, while its premium offerings—Internet Security and Maximum Security—remain reasonably priced. The basic Antivirus+ plan only covers a single Windows device, but the Maximum Security plan provides up to 10 licenses that can be shared across various platforms, making it a more flexible choice for families or small households.
7. Avira Internet Security
Specifications:
- Real-Time Protection: Provides real-time scanning for malware, viruses, ransomware, and other threats.
- Cloud Protection: Uses cloud-based analysis to protect against emerging threats.
- VPN and Browser Protection: Includes a built-in VPN and browser safety features.
- System Optimization: Offers PC optimization tools for faster performance.
- Compatibility: Works on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.
Best Deals (as of January 2025):
- Avira often offers up to 50% off on their yearly plans, especially for new customers.
- Avira Free Antivirus available with limited features.
Reasons to Buy:
- Affordable pricing compared to other premium antivirus software.
- Comprehensive protection against a wide range of online threats.
- Lightweight performance with minimal impact on system speed.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Some advanced features are only available in the paid versions.
- False positives can occasionally occur with some non-malicious files being flagged.
Features:
- Anti-malware, Anti-spyware, Anti-ransomware protection.
- Cloud-based AI for detecting new and emerging threats.
- Secure VPN for private browsing.
- Performance Booster tools to optimize your system.
When to Use:
- Ideal for personal users who need solid protection at an affordable price.
- Works well for users who prioritize system performance alongside protection.
When Not to Use:
- Not suitable for enterprise environments where more robust, business-focused security tools are needed.
- May not be sufficient for advanced cybersecurity professionals looking for detailed customization.
Avira stands out as one of the top free antivirus options available, offering solid protection right out of the gate. While its free version doesn’t match the full capabilities of a premium internet security suite, it still provides robust defense against threats like malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. Additionally, users can benefit from extras such as an ad blocker, a PUA (Potentially Unwanted Applications) shield, and even a handy price comparison tool to help find the best online deals.
For those looking to expand their security coverage, Avira offers a variety of subscription plans. The Pro and Internet Security tiers are affordable and cover the essential features needed for comprehensive protection. However, the real value lies in the Prime plan, which unlocks the full range of advanced features, including an unlimited VPN for enhanced privacy.
Some notable perks include a built-in password manager to keep your login details secure, a system optimizer to boost performance, and specialized tools designed for safe online banking and shopping. When you first launch Avira, many of these features are pre-activated, with its core real-time protection enabled by default.
One of Avira’s strengths is its high degree of customizability. If you’re technically inclined and prefer tailoring your antivirus experience, Avira gives you the flexibility to do so. However, for newcomers to cybersecurity, the setup might feel a bit overwhelming compared to user-friendly options like Bitdefender, which works well with minimal configuration.
It’s important to note, though, that Avira may cause some slowdowns during use. I noticed longer loading times for websites and delays in launching apps. The installation process itself was not without hiccups, as the system experienced lag and even froze temporarily before the program fully loaded.
In summary, Avira is a solid all-around antivirus service, and its free tier provides good protection without requiring any payment. However, for those willing to upgrade, the Prime plan offers the most value with its complete suite of premium features. Additionally, Avira is one of the few antivirus providers that offer a flexible monthly subscription, making it a convenient choice for those seeking short-term commitment.
8. ESET Internet Security
Specifications:
- Real-Time Protection: Detects malware and spyware in real time.
- Anti-phishing and Anti-spam: Protects against phishing attacks and unwanted emails.
- Device Control: Blocks untrusted USB devices from accessing your system.
- Network Security: Monitors and protects your Wi-Fi network.
Best Deals:
- Often offers 30% off or more during promotional sales.
- ESET NOD32 Antivirus is available for around $39.99/year.
Reasons to Buy:
- Lightweight performance with minimal impact on system speed.
- Highly rated for detecting malware with low false positives.
- Strong anti-theft features for laptops and mobile devices.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lacks some advanced tools available in other competitors, like VPN or system optimization.
- Complex user interface for beginners.
Features:
- Multi-layered protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing.
- Advanced anti-theft features for mobile devices.
- Firewall and network security against intrusions.
When to Use:
- Best for home users and small businesses requiring a balance of protection and performance.
- Good for users who need lightweight software with robust malware protection.
When Not to Use:
- Not ideal for users who need extensive parental control features.
- May not be as comprehensive for advanced enterprise security needs.
ESET Antivirus offers a range of protection plans designed to suit different needs, from basic to more advanced features. Its “Essential Security” plan provides fundamental protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks. However, it lacks the additional tools found in its higher-tier plans. For example, the “Premium Security” option includes extra features like a password manager, banking protection tools, and data encryption, offering more comprehensive security.
One of ESET’s standout features is its robust network protection, which is more extensive than what many competitors offer. While many antivirus providers include basic network monitoring to safeguard your internet connection, ESET goes above and beyond. It protects all devices connected to your home network, including smartphones, tablets, and even IoT devices such as Amazon Echo and Google Home. This wide coverage ensures that every device in your household is shielded from potential cyber threats.
Despite its strong security offerings, ESET’s performance in third-party testing falls slightly behind other top-tier brands like Avast or Norton, particularly in detecting emerging threats. ESET has struggled with zero-day malware detection, which is only available on its pricier plans. Given that real-time protection against new threats is critical in today’s digital landscape, it’s disappointing that this feature isn’t more widely available across its plans. Thankfully, most antivirus providers, including Avast and Norton, include this feature at all levels.
Another area where ESET could improve is in its scanning options. Currently, it offers Full System, Removable Devices, and Custom scans, but lacks a quick scan tool. While the available scans are efficient, offering a quicker scanning option would enhance the user experience.
Performance-wise, ESET may introduce some lag on your system. While it’s still possible to browse the web, check emails, and work without significant slowdowns, the software’s impact on system performance is noticeable. If you’re a gamer or need a tool with minimal impact on system resources, ESET may not be the best choice.
In summary, ESET offers solid protection, particularly for households with multiple devices, but it’s not without its limitations. The lack of zero-day malware detection on lower-tier plans and the occasional system slowdowns could make it less appealing compared to some of its competitors.
9. Malwarebytes Premium
Specifications:
- Real-Time Protection: Provides real-time scanning to catch malware, ransomware, and other malicious software.
- Malware Removal: Specialized tools for removing deeply embedded malware and stubborn threats.
- Behavioral Monitoring: Tracks suspicious activity to stop zero-day threats.
- System Performance Tools: Includes options to clean up and improve device performance.
Best Deals:
- Malwarebytes Premium is frequently available at 50% off for the first year.
- Offers a free version for malware removal but lacks real-time protection.
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent at removing existing malware from an infected system.
- Very strong detection and removal for adware, malware, and other tough threats.
- Easy to use and light on system resources.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Lacks some advanced features like firewall and VPN (only available in premium versions).
- Free version doesn’t provide real-time protection.
Features:
- Powerful malware removal tool (ideal for infections).
- Behavioral-based detection to stop new threats.
- Ransomware protection for files and data.
When to Use:
- Ideal when your system has already been infected by malware.
- Useful for users needing advanced malware removal capabilities.
When Not to Use:
- Not a full antivirus solution for ongoing protection (unless you opt for the premium version).
- Not suitable for users looking for comprehensive security suites.
Malwarebytes is widely known for its free plan, which offers an effective malware removal tool. While the free version is a great option for eliminating various threats, it is important to note that it focuses solely on removal and doesn’t offer proactive protection against future infections. This is particularly valuable when malware has already infiltrated a system, as Malwarebytes can reach areas that standard antivirus programs may miss, providing a solid cleanup.
However, if you’re seeking more comprehensive protection beyond removal, Malwarebytes offers a paid Premium subscription that includes additional features. When you first install the software, you’re given a limited-time trial of the Premium plan, allowing you to experience its key features such as real-time security monitoring and ransomware protection. One standout tool is “Play Mode,” which minimizes the impact of the security suite on system performance during activities like gaming or watching movies, ensuring a smoother experience.
Along with real-time protection, Malwarebytes Premium provides continuous security status reports, helping you stay informed about potential vulnerabilities in your device or network. It also warns users about dangerous websites, such as those known for malware or phishing scams, making it easier to avoid online threats.
Malwarebytes is compatible with a variety of platforms, ensuring that both mobile and desktop devices are covered. However, some of the more advanced antivirus tools, such as Brute Force and Uninstall Protections, are currently only available for Windows users. These features help guard against hacking attempts and prevent malware from disabling the software on your system.
While Malwarebytes excels in its malware removal capabilities, its real-time protection didn’t perform as well in independent tests compared to other antivirus solutions. For example, it failed to detect a simulated ransomware attack and showed slower response times when dealing with malware. Nevertheless, it is likely that Malwarebytes will continue to improve its antivirus protection, especially given its strong malware removal track record.
For users with multiple devices, Malwarebytes allows protection for up to five devices, which should be sufficient for most households. Additionally, you can expand your plan by adding a VPN for an extra $3 per month, further enhancing your online security and privacy.
Overall, Malwarebytes is a solid choice for those looking to remove malware efficiently. With the right upgrades, it can offer a comprehensive defense against a wide range of cyber threats.
10. Intego Mac Premium Bundle X9
Specifications:
- Mac-specific Protection: Tailored specifically for macOS devices.
- Firewall Protection: Offers a two-way firewall for macOS devices.
- Real-Time Protection: Includes real-time scanning for malware, spyware, and other threats.
- Privacy Protection: Includes tools to protect your privacy online.
Best Deals:
- Intego often offers 20-30% discounts for first-time users.
- Plans start at around $29.99/year.
Reasons to Buy:
- Excellent for Mac users—optimized specifically for macOS.
- Comprehensive security suite includes antivirus, firewall, and backup tools.
- User-friendly interface designed for less tech-savvy users.
Reasons to Avoid:
- Not cross-platform—primarily for Mac users, not compatible with Windows.
- Less effective for Windows environments.
Features:
- Antivirus, Anti-malware, and Anti-phishing tools.
- Backup solutions to protect files from ransomware and data loss.
- Firewall and privacy tools optimized for macOS.
When to Use:
- Mac users seeking a tailored security solution.
- Good for users needing an all-in-one security suite that includes backup and privacy tools.
When Not to Use:
- Not suitable for Windows or multi-platform environments.
- Might be overkill for light Mac users who just need basic protection.
If you’re a devoted Mac user, Intego Mac Premium Bundle X9 is worth considering. While its name may be a bit of a mouthful, the service offers a robust set of features that are easy to download, install, and navigate. While the bundle also has a Windows version, it performs best on Mac systems, providing a smoother experience overall.
Intego consistently scores highly in third-party tests for its protection capabilities. It effectively handles both Mac and Windows threats. Although Windows malware doesn’t directly affect Macs, it could potentially spread to other Windows devices on the same network or through email attachments. Having Intego running in the background can help prevent these risks.
One notable improvement is that Intego no longer causes significant slowdowns, a common complaint in the past. Another standout feature is the Mac Washing Machine, which scans for and removes potential vulnerabilities on your system. This tool identifies outdated software, leftover files, unused apps, and other clutter that could be exploited by hackers.
For parents, Intego’s ContentBarrier tool is also valuable. It provides comprehensive parental controls that make it easy to block access to inappropriate websites, either by using preset filters or adding specific URLs to a blacklist. This makes managing online safety for children a breeze.
However, setting up Intego isn’t entirely straightforward. Each tool in the bundle needs to be downloaded and installed separately, which can become a bit tedious. Fortunately, the VirusBarrier dashboard offers handy shortcuts to quickly access each tool, but combining everything into a single download would improve the user experience.
One limitation of Intego is its lack of support for iPhones or other iOS devices, meaning it can only protect your Mac or Windows machines. If you’re okay with that and don’t mind focusing on your desktop or laptop, Intego remains a solid antivirus solution with a wide range of useful tools.
Rankings For Antivirus Software:
| 1. Bitdefender | Sets the standard for all antivirus to reach for |
| 2. Norton | Good protection and great identity theft services |
| 3. Avast | Easy to use, great advanced security, excellent gaming mode |
| 4. McAfee | Good for mobile, and decent on other devices, too, but expensive |
| 5. F-Secure | Protects smart devices, such as TVs and Amazon Echo connected to your network |
| 6. Trend Micro | Good protections for banking and shopping online |
| 7. AVIRA | Decent tools with a good free antivirus available |
| 8. ESET | Okay for basic protection, but feels outdated and falls behind better options |
| 9. Malwarebytes | Not the best as a first defender malware blocker, but is excellent at removing threats already on your device |
| 10. Intego | Specifically designed for Mac computers, does well at blocking threats, but awkward to use |
How to choose antivirus software
How do you decide on just one antivirus solution when there are dozens of viable candidates out there? The obvious answer is to consult our rankings—our shortlist is the result of pooled expert knowledge, in-house testing, third-party security labs testing, and thorough, continually updated reviews of the top antivirus players.
Perhaps more importantly, however, you need to consider your own needs and use case. Do you have a ton of devices to protect? Do you need advanced features or specific tools? Do you want a service with a built-in VPN to save money on subscription fees?
These considerations will vary from person to person and might mean that our number one pick isn’t your match made in heaven. Our recommendations can point you in the direction of some stellar options, but you’ll need to modify these based on your individual requirements.
You can check performance Test Results for These Software’s Here in AV -Comparatives
The best antivirus FAQs
what is antivirus software?
Antivirus software is a type of program designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software, commonly known as malware, from computers and other devices. Malware can include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, and other harmful programs that can compromise your data, privacy, and device functionality.
Real-Time Protection: Continuously monitors your device for suspicious activity and blocks threats as they occur.
Malware Detection and Removal: Scans files and programs to identify and eliminate known and unknown threats.
Web Protection: Blocks malicious websites and phishing attempts to safeguard your online activities.
Firewall: Monitors network traffic to prevent unauthorized access.
System Optimization: Some antivirus programs include tools to optimize system performance by removing junk files and managing resources.
Privacy Tools: Features like VPNs, password managers, and data encryption enhance user privacy.
Antivirus software works by scanning files and comparing them against a database of known malware signatures or using behavioral analysis to identify new, unknown threats. Modern antivirus solutions often employ machine learning and cloud-based technologies to provide faster and more accurate protection.
What is the best antivirus of 2025?
Bitdefender Total Security provides comprehensive protection against a wide range of cyber threats, including malware and ransomware. It includes advanced features like Safe pay for secure online payments, an integrated VPN for privacy, and ensures excellent performance with minimal impact on your system’s speed.
