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10 Best Antivirus Software

Our Team of Experts have Reviewed Over 150 Top Antivirus Software for PC, Mac, iOS & Android. Easily Compare Security Features, OS, Deals and More. Get the Highest Level of Digital Protection!

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Anti Malware
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Anti Spyware
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Internet Security
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9.7
Excellent
Most Popular

Special Deal: Only $3

norton logo
9.8
Outstanding
2025 Editor's Choice

Special Deal: Get Up to 58% Off

TotalAV logo
9.5
Excellent

Special Sale: Get 84% Off

2025 Editor's Choice
norton logo
2025 Editor's Choice
norton
  • Special Deal: Get Up to 58% Off
  • 100% Virus Protection Promise
  • Real Time Malware Protection
  • VPN & Password Manager
Compatibility
9.8
Outstanding
norton logo
Compatibility
Most Popular
Alt Example
Most Popular
  • Special Deal: Only $3
  • Top Virus & Hacking Protection
  • Extensive Malware Protection
  • 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee
Compatibility
9.7
Excellent
Alt Example
Compatibility
TotalAV logo
totalav
  • Special Sale: Get 84% Off
  • AV-Test Top Antivirus Award
  • Anti-Hacking, Malware & Spyware
  • 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
Compatibility
9.5
Excellent
TotalAV logo
Compatibility
  • Best Deal: Get 20% Off
  • Blocks Malware, Viruses & Spyware
  • VPN Included for Internet Security
  • 24/7 Experts Technical Support
Compatibility
9.3
Very Good
Compatibility
Alt Example
  • Spring Sale: Up to 50% Off
  • Best Malware Protection App
  • High Speed VPN Included
  • Virus & Phishing Protection
Compatibility
9.1
Very Good
Alt Example
Compatibility
Avast logo
avast
  • Holiday Deal: Save 60%
  • Award-Winning Virus Protection
  • 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
  • Avoid Being Tracked by Advertisers
Compatibility
8.8
Good
Avast logo
Compatibility
Mcafee logo
mcafee
  • Special Offer: Get 70% Off
  • Award-Winning Antivirus Software
  • Secure VPN & Password Manager
  • Multi Hacking Protection Services
Compatibility
8.6
Good
Mcafee logo
Compatibility
Alt Example
  • Special Deal: Free Trial + 40% Off
  • Real Time Total Online Protection
  • Email & SMS Detection
  • Identity & Data Leak Monitoring
Compatibility
8.5
Good
Alt Example
Compatibility
surfshark logo
  • Spring Sale: 85% Off + 3 Mo. Free
  • Real Time Virus Scan
  • Free VPN and Safe Browsing
  • Prevents Target Ads & Tracking
Compatibility
8.3
Fair
surfshark logo
Compatibility
eset logo
eset
  • Special Offer: Get 30% Off
  • Eliminates Most advanced Threats
  • 24/7 Real-Time Protection
  • Encryption of Sensitive Data and Photos
Compatibility
8.1
Fair
eset logo
Compatibility
Alt Example
  • Special Offer: Get 75% Off
  • System Repair & Optimization suite
  • Malware Removal & Virus Detection
  • Full Diagnostic Scan & Report
Compatibility
7.9
Fair
Alt Example
Compatibility
AVG logo
  • Special Sale: Only $3.33
  • Antivirus & Anti Theft in One
  • Avoid Fake Websites for Safer Payments
  • Block Spam, Scams & Phishing Emails
Compatibility
7.8
Fair
AVG logo
Compatibility
panda logo
panda
  • Winter Sale: Get 60% Off
  • Free VPN and Identity Protection
  • Protection Against All Types of Threats
  • 24/7 Technical Support
Compatibility
7.7
Fair
panda logo
Compatibility

Best VPN Software

Why Is Virus Protection Software a Necessity?

If you own a personal computer, laptop, or mobile device, especially running Windows, you will require protection from viruses just to go about your regular activities.

It used to be that if you followed some basic good habits with your computer, desktop, or PC, you could avoid getting your system infected with a virus or malware, but it's no longer so simple. Avoiding browsing, streaming, and downloading content from unreliable sources can help you dodge some obvious threats, but securing your computer, laptop, or mobile device doesn’t stop there.

This is where virus protection software comes into play because, unfortunately, malicious code can be lurking anywhere. It could be hiding in your email, on an unsecured website, or inside of a USB given away for free. There is a wide variety of antivirus software out there, so our experts sift through the latest antivirus and malware protection software to bring you the best for your Windows devices.

How Does Antivirus Software Work?

Antivirus software comes in two varieties, passive or active. Passive versions leave it up to you to decide when you want to check your computer, laptop, or Windows PC for new threats. Active versions are constantly running in the background on your device and will alert you when they find something suspicious.

The best virus protection software runs on your computer, laptop, or mobile device 24/7 and is connected to the company's live database of virus signatures. New viruses and exploits are being developed all the time, so the best antiviruses for computers and mobile devices are constantly being updated with an ever-expanding catalog of viruses to look out for.

Should your antivirus find a potential virus in your system, it will give you three options. The first and the best course of action in most cases is to delete the threat. Some viruses are built in a way that makes it impossible to delete them, in that case, the second-best option for your device is to quarantine it. The last option is to have your antivirus ignore a file you know to be safe.

Free or Paid Virus Protection?

Whether it’s better to install a free antivirus or invest in a paid version depends on the type of activities you perform on your computer, laptop, or mobile device, and other circumstances like - whether you have children using your device.

Most experts will urge you to get a paid version, but free versions are great for testing a product or trying out new features. However, in the long run, they will fail to provide substantial protection, which might end up costing you more long-term.

With paid versions of antivirus software, you get total protection upfront, both online and offline, with the highest-ranked detection and prevention rates for your devices. If you think your system might already be infected then a premium antivirus software is what you need for immediate virus removal and system cleanup. From then on, it will also provide protection from future viruses and provide an additional layer of encryption for your sensitive data.

Additional Features To Consider

Protecting your computer, laptop, or mobile device is something you can expect from every virus protection software on the market, so here are some other features to consider:

  • Compatibility - You will need antivirus software that is compatible with your system. Many companies make versions for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.
  • Internet Security - Computers, laptops, and mobile devices connected to the internet will need an antivirus with a built-in firewall to stop viruses from ever taking hold.
  • Email Security - Some antiviruses are capable of scanning your inbox for possible spyware, spam, and phishing scams.
  • Gaming Compatibility - If you’re a heavy gamer, software with “gaming mode” features will provide the most protection with the least interruption to your gaming experience.
  • Parental Control - If you have children, then you'll want an antivirus that provides parental controls to keep your kids safe from online threats.

Computer Protection Against Viruses

The importance of computer protection against viruses cannot be overstated. Viruses are not just a nuisance; they can be severely destructive, leading to data loss, identity theft, and even financial ruin. This is why antivirus software is essential for any computer, especially those running on operating systems that are more prone to attacks, such as Windows. Modern antivirus programs do more than just scan for known viruses; they use advanced heuristics, behavior-based detection, and machine learning algorithms to identify and neutralize potential threats before they cause harm. It's crucial to keep your antivirus software updated, as new viruses are constantly emerging. In addition to using antivirus software, implementing strong firewall settings, keeping your operating system and applications up-to-date, and practicing safe browsing habits are key steps in protecting your computer from viruses and other forms of malware.

Protecting Laptops Against Viruses

Laptops, due to their portable nature, face unique security challenges and are particularly vulnerable to viruses. The danger of viruses on laptops extends beyond just the device itself; it can compromise personal information, result in the loss of important work or personal files, and even affect the performance of the laptop. To effectively protect your laptop, it's important to install reputable antivirus software. This software should be regularly updated to recognize the latest threats. Additionally, be cautious when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, as they can be hotspots for virus transmission. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources, as these are common methods for virus dissemination. Regularly backing up important data is also a wise precaution, ensuring that in the event of an infection, you don't lose valuable information. By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of virus infections and keep your laptop safe.

How We Can Help You Decide?

The number of antiviruses and their features can be overwhelming. This is why our expert reviews are here to help you make the choice that caters to all your needs for your computer, laptop, or mobile device.