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The 7 Best Anti-Spyware Software (2026 Update)
Updated: December 2025
By: Tibor Moes is the founder of SoftwareLab. He has tested 28 antivirus brands and studied Cybersecurity at Stanford. Read how we test antivirus.
Norton
Ranked #1 of 28
- Malware Protection 100%
- Security Features 100%
Norton has the best anti-malware protection, excellent security features, and a great price. It’s the best anti-spyware software of 2026.
- Malware protection: 100%. Norton stopped all 1,200 malware attacks in our test.
- Security features: 100%. Anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Speed impact: 100%. Norton did not slow down our test PC.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.
Avast
Ranked #2 of 28
- Malware Protection 100%
- Security Features 80%
Avast offers excellent protection, many bonus features, and a beautiful design. However, it lacks a password manager.
- Malware protection: 100%. Avast stopped all 1,200 malware attacks in our test.
- Security features: 80%. Avast does not include a password manager.
- Speed impact: 100%. Avast did not slow down our test PC.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
The best anti-spyware software of 2026
In 2026, we tested 39 anti-spyware from 28 brands. To measure their effectiveness, we infected our test PC with 1,200 malware samples, including spyware, to see how well each program detected and removed threats.
Beyond spyware protection, we also evaluated firewalls, password managers, anti-phishing tools, VPNs, and other advanced security features. Here are the best anti-spyware solutions of 2026:
Scroll down for the reviews.
Norton Review
Norton is ranked #1 of 28 brands.
Norton is the best anti-spyware software of 2026. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and an excellent price.
Buy it if you want complete protection. You will get excellent anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN, which will protect your privacy online.
- Malware protection: 100%. Norton detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Norton’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. Norton includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 100%. Compared to similar products at Bitdefender and McAfee, Norton offers more value for money.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Norton Anti-Spyware Review
Norton delivers the most comprehensive anti-spyware protection across all major operating systems.
Anti-Spyware Performance
In our tests, Norton achieved a perfect 100% spyware detection rate — one of the few brands to reach that level. Its real-time protection engine, known as SONAR, consistently identified and blocked every form of spyware we launched, including advanced keyloggers, browser hijackers, and stealth tracking programs.
To verify this, we combined data from the ten most recent AV-Test reports with our own hands-on evaluations. During our testing, Norton successfully intercepted all 1,200 spyware and phishing attempts in real-time.
Norton’s SONAR system leverages heuristic analysis and machine learning to detect both known and emerging spyware threats. Instead of relying solely on signature-based recognition, it analyzes suspicious behavioral patterns — allowing it to stop new forms of surveillance software before they compromise your privacy.
Firewall Protection
Norton’s Smart Firewall plays a vital role in preventing spyware from transmitting data. It continuously monitors both inbound and outbound connections for unusual activity, instantly blocking any attempt by spyware to send captured information from your device.
In contrast, the built-in Windows Firewall only inspects incoming traffic and does not prevent applications from making suspicious outgoing connections. Norton also enhances security further by cloaking inactive ports, preventing hackers from discovering and exploiting them through port-scanning techniques.
Secure VPN
Norton’s unlimited VPN is a standout feature. It’s fast, secure (AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN protocol), and privacy-focused (strict no-logs policy). The VPN supports torrenting (P2P) and offers useful tools like auto-connect, kill switch, ad tracker blocking, and split tunneling.
Unlike competitors such as Bitdefender, which limit VPN data to 200 MB per day unless you pay extra, Norton includes unlimited data in all plans — ensuring continuous protection against spyware that tracks online behavior.
Password Manager
Norton’s password manager is equally strong. It helps create and store complex passwords, fills them in accurately, and integrates seamlessly with biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition). This ensures spyware or keyloggers can’t capture credentials, as passwords are encrypted and never typed manually.
Pricing & Packages
- Norton Antivirus Plus: €20 (Europe) / $30 (USA) – includes anti-spyware, a firewall, and a password manager for 1 PC or Mac.
- Norton 360 Standard: €35 (Europe) / $40 (USA) – adds a VPN and dark web monitoring for 1 (EU) or 3 (US) devices.
- Norton 360 Deluxe: €40 (Europe) / $50 (USA) – adds a privacy monitor and parental controls for up to 5 devices.
- Norton 360 Advanced: €45 (Europe only) – includes identity theft protection for up to 10 devices.
- Norton 360 Select + LifeLock: $100 (USA only) – includes full LifeLock identity theft protection for 10 devices.
In some regions, Norton Anti-Spyware Advanced is marketed as Norton Anti-Spyware Premium, offering identical features minus identity theft protection.
Additional Features
- Web protection: Blocks spyware-hosting and phishing sites via the Safe Web extension.
- Cloud backup: Securely backs up sensitive data to prevent loss from spyware-related breaches.
- Parental controls: Protects children from spyware-infected websites.
- Privacy monitor: Detects and removes personal data from online databases.
- Webcam protection: Blocks unauthorized camera access attempts.
- Dark web monitoring: Searches for leaked personal information on dark web forums.
- LifeLock identity theft protection: Detects and helps recover from identity theft incidents.
Note: Norton’s identity protection services are available only in the United States.
Is Norton the Best Anti-Spyware Software of 2026?
Yes. Based on our extensive testing, Norton ranks as the most effective anti-spyware solution of 2026.
Modern security demands more than simple malware detection — it requires proactive protection against surveillance, data theft, and online tracking. Norton’s unified suite of device defense, privacy tools, and identity protection makes it the most complete anti-spyware package you can buy.
You can try Norton risk-free with its 60-day money-back guarantee.
Avast Review
Ranked #2 out of 28
Avast is ranked #2 of 28 brands.
Avast is one of the best anti-spyware software of 2026. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, many security features, and one of the best designs we’ve seen.
Buy it if you want excellent protection and superb design. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, and a VPN. However, Avast does not include a password manager.
- Malware protection: 100%. Avast detected and removed all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Avast’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 80%. Avast one includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, and more. But no password manager.
- Price: 100%. Considering Avast’s excellent security features and design, its price is more than fair.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Avast Anti-Spyware Review
We tested Avast One and found it to be one of the best anti-spyware solutions available today. Its ability to detect and block spyware is on par with top competitors like Norton and Bitdefender.
The paid versions offer a strong suite of privacy and security tools, including an unlimited VPN and system optimization utilities. It runs smoothly on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, supporting multiple devices under one plan. Overall, Avast is an excellent choice for users seeking multi-platform spyware protection and privacy enhancement.
Anti-Spyware Performance
In our hands-on tests, we exposed Avast to over 1,200 spyware and surveillance samples. It successfully detected and eliminated all of them. A full system scan took about 54 minutes, while real-time protection intercepted even encrypted spyware downloads before they could execute.
Avast’s behavioral detection engine identifies spyware based on suspicious patterns such as unauthorized data transmission, registry changes, or camera/microphone access. This ensures both known and emerging spyware threats are neutralized.
The only drawback is that the free version frequently promotes premium upgrades, which can feel intrusive.
Firewall Protection
Avast’s firewall enables users to monitor all network activity and manually block untrusted applications. It effectively stops spyware from making outbound connections to remote servers.
However, the interface lacks the same automation and ease of use found in Norton or Bitdefender’s firewalls. Another limitation is the missing Wi-Fi Inspector on Windows — a tool that would have identified insecure or compromised devices connected to your network.
Secure VPN
We tested the VPN included in Avast One Essential and found it adequate for light privacy use. Free users receive 5GB of data per week, sufficient for occasional browsing protection against tracking and spyware injection attempts.
The paid VPN, while unlimited, underperformed in terms of connection speed and streaming access compared to competitors like Bitdefender. Still, it remains a valuable addition for those prioritizing encrypted browsing and data protection.
Bonus Privacy and Security Features
Avast includes several tools designed to strengthen overall privacy and counter spyware tactics:
- Browser data cleaner: Erases cookies and trackers that collect browsing habits.
- Software updater: Closes vulnerabilities that spyware can exploit.
- Password protection: Safeguards stored login credentials from theft.
- Ransomware shield: Blocks unauthorized file encryption.
- Email protection: Scans attachments and phishing links.
- Tracking prevention (premium): Stops advertisers and analytics tools from profiling you online.
These tools combine to make Avast not just an anti-spyware solution but a full privacy suite.
Is Avast the Best Anti-Spyware Software of 2026?
Avast delivers comprehensive anti-spyware protection and a rich selection of privacy tools. While it lacks a built-in password manager and parental controls, it performs exceptionally well in detecting spyware and preventing unauthorized data leaks.
If you need a more feature-complete suite — including password management and identity protection — we recommend Norton 360 Deluxe as an alternative.
You can try Avast risk-free, backed by its 30-day money-back guarantee.
TotalAV Review
Ranked #3 out of 28
TotalAV is ranked #3 of 28 brands.
TotalAV is one of the best anti-spyware software of 2026. It has near-perfect anti-malware test scores, an intuitive design, no impact on the speed of your PC, and lots of security features.
Buy it if you want an easy-to-use program at a great price. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a password manager, and a VPN, which will protect your privacy online. But no firewall.
- Malware protection: 99.8%. TotalAV detected and removed nearly all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. TotalAV’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 90%. TotalAV includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, VPN, and a password manager. But it doesn’t have a firewall.
- Price: 90%. TotalAV offers generous discounts in the first year, but high renewal prices in the second year.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
TotalAV Anti-Spyware Review
TotalAV delivers affordable, intuitive, and reliable protection against spyware and other digital threats. Its clean interface and strong privacy tools make it an excellent option for users seeking comprehensive online security without unnecessary complexity.
Anti-Spyware Performance
In our testing, TotalAV demonstrated exceptional accuracy in detecting and removing spyware. Powered by Avira’s scanning engine, it offers several scanning options — Quick, System, Smart, and Custom — all tailored for different security needs.
Our full System Scan took about one hour and showed minimal impact on system performance. During testing, TotalAV successfully identified and removed 99.8% of spyware, keyloggers, and data-mining programs, as well as other forms of malware such as ransomware and trojans.
Its real-time protection proved particularly effective, automatically blocking spyware-laced downloads and preventing background data exfiltration attempts.
Secure VPN
TotalAV’s Safe Browsing VPN performed well in our privacy and speed tests. With 48 server locations worldwide, it provides solid connection speeds and supports P2P file sharing and streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu.
It includes advanced privacy features like a kill switch and auto-connect on public Wi-Fi, ensuring your browsing data remains hidden even if your connection drops. While not as fast as top standalone VPNs, it’s an excellent inclusion in TotalAV’s suite for users who want consistent protection against online tracking and spyware.
Password Manager
We tested Total Password, TotalAV’s integrated password manager, and found it both secure and user-friendly. It uses 256-bit AES encryption to safeguard credentials, supports auto-save, auto-fill, and two-factor authentication, and stores data in an encrypted cloud vault accessible across devices.
Although it lacks a few advanced options like hardware-based authentication keys, it performs all essential functions smoothly and helps prevent spyware from capturing or keylogging login credentials.
Bonus Features
TotalAV enhances its anti-spyware protection with a strong lineup of supporting tools:
- Identity theft protection (powered by Aura): Monitors your personal information across databases and alerts you to breaches.
- System tune-up suite: Includes a Startup Manager, Junk Cleaner, and Duplicate File Finder to optimize performance and remove potential spyware hiding spots.
- Web protection tools: Block tracking cookies, adware, and malicious URLs before they can collect user data.
Together, these features make TotalAV an all-in-one privacy and performance package.
Is TotalAV the Best Anti-Spyware Software of 2026?
Yes, TotalAV is one of the best anti-spyware solutions of 2026. It combines strong spyware detection with real-time protection, a capable VPN, and a secure password manager — all at a competitive price.
For users seeking a comprehensive and easy-to-use security suite that prioritizes privacy and protection from surveillance software, TotalAV is a top choice.
You can try TotalAV risk-free, backed by its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Panda Review
Ranked #4 out of 28
Panda is ranked #4 of 28 brands.
Panda is an excellent anti-spyware program. It has near-perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and flexible pricing.
Buy it if you want great protection and customization options. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN, which will protect your privacy online.
- Malware protection: 99%. Panda detected and removed nearly all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Panda’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. Panda Dome includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 80%. Compared to similar products at Norton, Panda Dome is expensive. However, its flexible pricing is excellent.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Panda Dome Anti-Spyware Review
Panda offers some of the most flexible pricing options among modern anti-spyware solutions, combining strong detection rates with advanced privacy protection and useful bonus tools.
Anti-Spyware Performance
In our testing, Panda Dome achieved a 99.9% spyware detection rate, putting it among the top performers in real-world conditions. However, it did generate slightly more false positives than competitors like Norton or Bitdefender, occasionally flagging safe applications as threats.
This score reflects both our in-house testing and the average of AV-Comparatives results since 2020. Panda doesn’t currently participate in AV-Test’s evaluations, but both labs independently assess detection accuracy and protection reliability for free and paid security software.
Panda’s detection system integrates big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to analyze all running applications. This allows it to identify and block traditional spyware, zero-day surveillance threats, ransomware, and data exfiltration tools. It recognizes malicious behavior patterns — not just file signatures — to prevent new forms of spyware from compromising user privacy.
Firewall Protection
Panda’s intelligent firewall filters both incoming and outgoing connections on local networks and the internet. It automatically assigns permissions based on each application’s risk profile, while still allowing manual customization for advanced users.
This two-way monitoring is essential for spyware defense, as it blocks unauthorized attempts by infected applications to send personal data to external servers.
Secure VPN
Every Panda Dome plan includes a built-in VPN, though the free version is limited to 150 MB per day — roughly equivalent to four minutes of HD streaming or around 75 webpage visits.
Like Bitdefender, Panda’s VPN uses Aura’s HydraVPN technology, providing AES-256 encryption, strong speeds, no-log privacy, and torrenting support. While it lacks advanced options such as a kill switch, its inclusion in Panda Dome Premium (with unlimited data) makes it a worthwhile feature for those seeking protection against tracking and data interception.
Password Manager
Panda’s password manager is one of the best we’ve tested. It makes password creation and storage effortless, supports two-factor authentication, and allows biometric logins for added protection.
The browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox mirror the design of the Android and iOS apps, providing a seamless cross-platform experience. All passwords are encrypted and automatically filled, minimizing the chance of spyware capturing credentials through keystroke logging.
Pricing & Packages
- Panda Dome Essential: €25 (Europe) / $35 (USA) – includes anti-spyware and a firewall.
- Panda Dome Advanced: €35 (Europe) / $42 (USA) – adds anti-phishing protection and parental controls.
- Panda Dome Complete: €45 (Europe) / $54 (USA) – adds a password manager and system optimizer.
- Panda Dome Premium: €50 (Europe) / $56 (USA) – adds unlimited VPN and automatic software updates.
All Panda Dome plans can be extended to protect an unlimited number of devices, offering flexibility for families or multi-device users.
Bonus Features
- Safe browsing: Blocks spyware-hosting and phishing websites.
- Dark web scanner: Searches the dark web for leaked personal data.
- PC cleanup: Deletes cookies, trackers, and temporary files.
- Wi-Fi protection: Detects vulnerabilities in your home network.
- Anti-theft tools: Locate or lock your device if it’s lost or stolen.
- File encryptor: Protects confidential documents with passwords.
- File shredder: Permanently deletes files to prevent recovery.
- USB protection: Scans external drives for spyware or autorun threats.
Is Panda the Best Anti-Spyware Software of 2026?
Panda Dome ranks among the top anti-spyware programs we’ve tested. We especially appreciate its powerful password manager, customizable firewall, and flexible pricing structure.
However, we still prefer Norton for its superior performance on macOS and mobile platforms, and for including an unlimited VPN at a lower price point.
If you primarily use a Windows PC, Panda Dome’s intelligent protection, privacy features, and seamless user experience make it an excellent choice.
You can try Panda Dome risk-free, backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Bitdefender Review
Ranked #5 out of 28
Bitdefender is ranked #5 of 28 brands.
Bitdefender is an excellent anti-spyware program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, many security features, and an excellent price.
Buy it if you want outstanding protection. But keep in mind that you will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, and a few bonus features. Not the password manager or unlimited VPN.
- Malware protection: 100%. Bitdefender detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Bitdefender’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 80%. Bitdefender has anti-malware, anti-phishing, and a firewall, but it misses a password manager and a VPN.
- Price: 100%. Although Bitdefender misses a few features, it has an excellent price, which gives it good value for money.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Bitdefender Anti-Spyware Review
Bitdefender is renowned for its exceptional anti-spyware technology, comprehensive privacy tools, and lightweight performance. Its real-time protection engine is among the most advanced in the industry, combining behavioral analysis and machine learning to detect even the most sophisticated forms of digital surveillance.
Anti-Spyware Performance
In our testing, Bitdefender achieved a 100% spyware detection rate, successfully identifying and removing every sample we introduced. Its Advanced Threat Defense engine delivers continuous real-time protection by analyzing application behavior rather than relying on traditional signature-based detection.
This behavioral monitoring approach allows Bitdefender to detect anomalies like unauthorized code injection, registry manipulation, or background data capture, all of which are common spyware techniques. The result is powerful, proactive protection with minimal false positives.
During our hands-on evaluation, Bitdefender instantly stopped new spyware and tracker variants before they could establish persistence or transmit data. Impressively, this level of protection had virtually no impact on system performance.
Firewall Protection
Bitdefender’s two-way firewall monitors both inbound and outbound network traffic. It automatically blocks suspicious applications from sending data to unknown servers — a critical defense against spyware attempting to transmit stolen information.
In addition, it detects and prevents port scanning, a method hackers use to locate vulnerable entry points on your device. This combination of stealth protection and intelligent automation ensures your data remains safe on both private and public networks.
Secure VPN
Bitdefender includes a free VPN with all its plans, offering 200 MB of data per day — roughly enough for a few minutes of HD streaming or casual browsing.
The VPN uses Aura’s HydraVPN technology with AES-256 encryption, ensuring strong security and privacy. It’s fast, supports torrenting (P2P), and maintains a strict no-logs policy. Premium users gain access to unlimited data, along with features like auto-connect, kill switch, split tunneling, and startup activation.
Although standalone VPNs may offer higher speeds, Bitdefender’s integrated solution is an excellent addition for maintaining anonymity and preventing spyware-based online tracking.
Password Manager
Bitdefender’s password manager is available as a separate purchase or as part of the Premium Security suite. It encrypts all stored credentials using 256-bit AES encryption and supports auto-fill and two-factor authentication.
While not included in the entry-level plans, the password manager adds an important extra layer of defense against keyloggers and spyware seeking to harvest login information.
Pricing & Packages
- Bitdefender Antivirus Plus: €15 (Europe) / $15 (USA) – includes anti-spyware and anti-phishing protection for 1 PC.
- Bitdefender Total Security: €50 (Europe) / $60 (USA) – adds system optimization tools and support for macOS, Android, and iOS; protects 5 devices.
- Bitdefender Premium Security: €70 (Europe) / $80 (USA) – adds unlimited VPN and password manager; protects 5 devices.
- Bitdefender Ultimate Security: €80 (Europe) / $90 (USA) – adds identity theft protection; protects 5 devices.
A Free Edition is also available, offering basic spyware protection. However, it’s limited compared to the paid versions and only marginally better than Windows Defender. We strongly recommend Bitdefender’s paid plans for full-spectrum spyware protection.
Bonus Features
- Online threat prevention: Blocks phishing and spyware-infected websites.
- Vulnerability scan: Detects outdated software and system weaknesses.
- Ransomware remediation: Restores encrypted files.
- Safepay browser: Secures financial transactions from spyware and keyloggers.
- Anti-tracker extension: Removes tracking scripts and cookies.
- Webcam & microphone protection: Prevents unauthorized recording.
- Parental advisor: Monitors children’s online activity safely.
- Anti-theft tools: Locate or remotely wipe devices.
- File shredder: Permanently deletes files to prevent recovery.
- One-click optimizer: Cleans and speeds up your system.
Is Bitdefender the Best Anti-Spyware Software of 2026?
Yes — Bitdefender is one of the top-rated anti-spyware programs of 2026. Its behavioral detection, real-time protection, and extensive privacy tools make it an exceptional choice for defending against all forms of digital surveillance.
While it can be more expensive than competitors due to separate purchases for the password manager and unlimited VPN, the depth of protection and overall reliability justify the cost.
If you want the most advanced anti-spyware solution with superior real-time detection and privacy safeguards, Bitdefender is an outstanding investment.
You can try Bitdefender risk-free, backed by its 30-day money-back guarantee.
McAfee Review
Ranked #6 out of 28
McAfee is ranked #6 of 28 brands.
McAfee is an excellent anti-spyware program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, an intuitive design, and all the security features you need.
Buy it if you want complete protection. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, a VPN, and, depending on where you live, identity theft protection.
- Malware protection: 100%. Mcafee detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. McAfee’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. McAfee includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 90%. McAfee is slightly more expensive than Norton, but allows you to protect an unlimited number of devices (in the US).
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
McAfee Anti-Spyware Review
McAfee provides powerful, privacy-focused protection and stands out as one of the few anti-spyware solutions that can safeguard an unlimited number of devices under a single subscription. Its combination of behavioral detection, identity protection, and network security tools makes it one of the most complete anti-surveillance suites available today.
Anti-Spyware Performance
McAfee achieved a 100% detection rate in all major independent lab tests since April 2020, maintaining flawless protection in AV-Test’s ongoing evaluations. Our own testing confirmed these results: McAfee successfully detected and removed every type of spyware, keylogger, and data-harvesting tool we introduced, across both online and offline scenarios.
McAfee’s effectiveness stems from its next-generation Scan Engine, which uses a multi-layered approach:
- Signature matching: Identifies known spyware using an extensive threat database.
- Sandbox execution: Runs suspicious files in an isolated environment to observe behavior.
- Heuristic analysis: Detects new or evolving spyware by spotting suspicious activity patterns.
- File repair: Removes malicious code from affected files when possible, reducing data loss.
This sophisticated detection system allows McAfee to identify and eliminate even stealthy or encrypted spyware variants with exceptional precision.
Firewall Protection
McAfee’s Smart Firewall delivers robust two-way protection, monitoring both inbound and outbound connections. It automatically blocks any unauthorized attempts by spyware to send personal data to external servers.
It also conceals open ports, preventing hackers from discovering them through port scanning — a crucial step in avoiding targeted attacks that install surveillance tools.
Secure VPN
McAfee’s Safe Connect VPN is one of the strongest privacy features in its suite. It offers unlimited data, AES-256 encryption, and a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your browsing activity stays private. The VPN includes servers in 45 countries, supports torrenting, and even works with Netflix on select servers.
Speeds are consistently fast, though advanced features like split tunneling and kill switch aren’t available on every operating system. If you disable auto-renewal, the VPN reverts to a 500 MB/day limit, so keeping the subscription active is recommended for full functionality.
Password Manager
McAfee’s True Key password manager is one of the best integrated solutions we’ve tested. It securely stores and auto-fills login credentials with impressive accuracy and allows biometric authentication (facial recognition and fingerprint scanning).
By encrypting all stored credentials with AES-256, it prevents spyware and keyloggers from intercepting login data. The clean design and cross-platform support make it a reliable choice for both desktop and mobile users.
Pricing & Packages
- McAfee Basic – €30 (Europe) / $30 (USA): Includes anti-spyware, firewall, VPN, and password manager for 1 device.
- McAfee+ Premium – €45 (Europe) / $50 (USA): Adds personal data cleanup and supports unlimited devices.
- McAfee+ Advanced – €65 (Europe) / $90 (USA): Includes identity theft protection for unlimited devices.
- McAfee+ Ultimate – €105 (Europe) / $200 (USA): Adds expanded identity restoration services for unlimited devices.
In some regions, you may see McAfee Total Protection instead of McAfee Basic or Essential — these offer identical features under a different name.
Bonus Privacy & Security Tools
McAfee extends its anti-spyware protection with several advanced utilities designed to enhance privacy and system performance:
- Secure Apps: Scans for missing security updates and vulnerable software.
- App Boost: Improves the performance of frequently used programs.
- Browser Security: Blocks phishing and malicious sites.
- Web Boost: Prevents auto-playing videos and malicious scripts.
- Tracker Remover: Deletes tracking cookies and browser data.
- ID Protection: Monitors the dark web for stolen personal information.
- File Shredder: Permanently deletes sensitive files.
- File Lock: Encrypts personal files in password-protected vaults.
- Anti-Spam: Filters unwanted emails in Outlook and Thunderbird.
- Safe Family: Parental control tool for managing children’s online activity.
Is McAfee the Best Anti-Spyware Software of 2026?
Yes — McAfee ranks among the best anti-spyware programs of 2026. Its combination of perfect detection rates, unlimited VPN data, cross-platform password management, and beautiful, intuitive design makes it an outstanding privacy suite.
The ability to protect an unlimited number of devices is a major advantage, especially for households or small businesses. Its U.S. plans also include advanced identity theft protection, further strengthening its position as an all-in-one privacy solution.
You can try McAfee risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Avira Review
Ranked #7 out of 28
Avira is ranked #7 of 28 brands.
Avira is an excellent anti-spyware program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and a great design.
Buy it if you want excellent protection and intuitive design. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a password manager, and a VPN. On top of that, Avira finally includes an excellent firewall.
- Malware protection: 100%. Avira detected and removed all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Avira’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. Avira includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 90%. Avira has a great price. But with Norton, you’ll get a few more features for the same amount of money.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Avira Anti-Spyware Review
We thoroughly tested Avira and found it to be a top-performing anti-spyware solution. It achieved a 100% detection rate, accurately identifying every form of spyware during our evaluation. The free version is impressive on its own, while the paid plans offer excellent value and expanded privacy tools. Avira excels in both security and affordability.
Anti-Spyware Performance
Avira’s cloud-based detection engine proved outstanding in our tests. It identified every spyware sample instantly while maintaining smooth system performance. Its Smart Scan feature goes beyond simple spyware removal — it also detects privacy vulnerabilities, weak configurations, and system optimization opportunities.
Because the scanner operates in the cloud, it consumes minimal local resources and is always updated with the latest spyware definitions. This makes Avira equally effective for beginners and advanced users who want comprehensive privacy protection.
Firewall Protection
Avira’s intelligent firewall is highly customizable. It uses adaptive rules to monitor data flow and lets users define permissions for each application. The intrusion prevention system (IPS) adds another layer of defense, automatically blocking suspicious outbound connections and data exfiltration attempts typical of spyware activity.
Secure VPN
Avira’s Phantom VPN delivers reliable security and respectable performance. In our tests, it reduced internet speed by only 25–30%, which is quite good for an integrated VPN. It features AES-256 encryption, supports P2P file sharing, and hides your IP address to prevent online tracking.
While the VPN performs well for everyday use, it struggles to bypass geo-blocks on certain streaming platforms. Still, for routine browsing and protection against spyware-based web tracking, it performs admirably.
Password Manager
Avira’s password manager is one of the most generous free tools available — it offers unlimited password storage, even on the free plan. It uses AES-256 encryption and supports two-factor authentication for extra protection.
Passwords sync seamlessly across devices, and the autofill function is fast and accurate. The only notable omission is a password generator in the browser extension, but overall, it’s a secure and convenient way to guard credentials from spyware and keyloggers.
Bonus Features
Avira includes several privacy and performance tools that complement its anti-spyware defenses:
- Device optimizer: Freed over 1 GB of junk files in our test, improving speed.
- Startup optimizer: Reduces boot time by controlling background apps.
- Driver updater: Keeps system components secure and patched.
- Game booster: Enhances gaming performance by suspending non-critical processes.
- Battery manager: Conserves power, though it could benefit from tools to identify energy-draining apps.
These utilities make Avira not just an anti-spyware tool, but a complete system health suite.
Is Avira the Best Anti-Spyware Software of 2026?
Avira Anti-Spyware Prime is a first-rate privacy and protection suite. It combines excellent spyware detection, cloud-based efficiency, and a generous free plan with features that rival paid competitors.
Its 30-day money-back guarantee makes it risk-free to try, and for users who prioritize strong privacy protection at a fair price, Avira is one of the best anti-spyware choices of 2026.
If you’re looking for additional features like parental controls or identity protection, Norton 360 Deluxe is a similarly priced alternative worth considering.
You can try Avira risk-free today with its 30-day return policy.
Specification comparison
We’ve compared the specifications of the best antivirus of 2026. To ensure a fair comparison, we selected the most affordable product from each brand that protects at least one PC with anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN. These are:
- Norton 360 Standard
- Avast Ultimate
- TotalAV Total Security
- Panda Dome Premium
- Bitdefender Ultimate Security
- McAfee Basic
- Avira Prime
Compare the details below. Last Update: November 2025.
Test score comparison
We conduct in-house anti-malware tests and review the results from AV-Test, a German lab renowned for its objective evaluations. Below is the average of the last 10 AV-Test results for Windows. Their scoring criteria are:
- Protection (1-6): Effectiveness in blocking malware.
- Performance (1-6): Impact on system speed.
- Usability (1-6): Frequency of errors like false alarms.
We calculate a final score using this formula:
Final Score = 60% Protection + 20% Performance + 20% Usability.
While these results influence our choice of the best antivirus for Windows 11, other factors like privacy and identity protection also play a key role. For a similar analysis for Android or macOS, visit our other comparisons:
Note: Some brands, like Panda Antivirus and Surfshark Antivirus, participate less frequently in the AV-Tests; their scores are therefore less reliable.
Source: AV-Test. Last Update: November 2025.
Price comparison
Price matters. So, we compared the second-year prices in the U.S. for each software, rounding up for simplicity (e.g., $99.99 becomes $100). Note that some brands lack key features, affecting their overall value.
To make it a fair comparison, we looked at what it would cost us, to protect a single Windows PC with the most essential features:
- Anti-malware
- Anti-phishing (web protection)
- Firewall
- Password manager
- Unlimited VPN (no data limit).
Prices vary outside the U.S., so check the brands’ websites for your local pricing.
Last Update: November 2025.
User reviews
We’ve compared the user reviews of all anti-spyware brands. We’ve used the scores and review count of TrustPilot, a leading user review platform.
We consider scores above 4.0 very good. Lower scores indicate that the brand might have a poor product or customer service. McAfee’s scores, for instance, are worrying.
Source: TrustPilot. Last Update: November 2025.
Buying Guide
Common questions about anti-spyware software
How does anti-spyware software work?
Modern anti-spyware software uses multiple detection methods to identify and block threats before they can harm your device:
- Signature-based detection: Identifies known spyware by comparing files to a database of malware signatures.
- Heuristic analysis: Detects new or modified spyware by analyzing suspicious code patterns.
- Behavioral detection: Monitors programs and processes for unusual activity typical of spyware behavior.
- Real-time protection: Continuously scans and blocks spyware before it can steal personal data.
- Machine learning and AI: Uses intelligent algorithms to recognize emerging spyware and adapt to new attack methods.
For more, read our blog post on what antivirus software is.
What other features does anti-spyware have?
Modern anti-spyware suites go beyond malware detection, offering comprehensive digital protection tools:
- Anti-phishing protection: Blocks fraudulent websites and emails designed to steal sensitive information.
- Firewall: Monitors network connections to prevent unauthorized access or data exfiltration.
- Password manager: Encrypts and securely stores passwords to reduce the risk of credential theft.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts online traffic and hides IP addresses to protect user privacy.
- Identity theft protection: Monitors personal data and alerts users to potential misuse or breaches.
- Parental controls: Restricts access to unsafe or inappropriate content and manages screen time.
Together, these features provide robust defense against diverse cybersecurity threats, keeping you secure in a connected world.
What cyber threats can anti-spyware protect you from?
Anti-spyware software defends against a broad range of digital threats:
- Adware: Displays intrusive advertisements and may track browsing activity.
- PUP (Potentially Unwanted Programs): Unwanted software that slows down systems or collects data.
- Ransomware: Encrypts files and demands payment to restore access.
- Rootkits: Hides malicious activity to maintain persistent unauthorized access.
- Spyware: Steals personal or financial data by secretly monitoring user activity.
- Trojans: Disguises itself as legitimate software to install malware.
- Viruses: Infects files, spreads through systems, and causes damage or data loss.
- Worms: Self-replicating malware that spreads automatically across networks.
Modern anti-spyware tools go beyond malware protection, offering features like anti-phishing, firewalls, VPNs, password managers, identity theft protection, and parental controls to guard against broader cyber threats.
What cyber threats can’t anti-spyware protect you from?
Even the best anti-spyware has limitations. It cannot fully protect against:
- Social engineering: Deceptive tactics that manipulate users into revealing private information or downloading malware.
- Zero-day attacks: Exploits unknown software vulnerabilities before developers can patch them.
Stay safe out there.
Is the built-in anti-spyware software good enough?
Windows Defender and macOS XProtect provide solid baseline protection against common spyware and malware. However, they lack essential premium features, including:
- Password manager: For secure storage and management of credentials.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): For encrypted, private browsing and location masking.
- Identity theft protection: To monitor personal data and detect misuse.
- Parental controls: For managing children’s online activity and access.
For comprehensive protection, especially across multiple devices, a paid security suite offers significantly more value and flexibility.
How will AI shape cybercrime in 2026?
Artificial intelligence is reshaping both cybersecurity and cybercrime. Key emerging trends include:
- Intelligent phishing attacks: AI will craft personalized, realistic phishing messages.
- Deepfake manipulation: Fraudsters will use AI-generated voices and videos for identity scams.
- Self-learning malware: AI-driven malware will evolve dynamically to evade detection.
- Automated vulnerability discovery: Machine learning tools will uncover and exploit weaknesses faster than ever.
- AI-powered social engineering: Attackers will analyze user behavior to tailor manipulative strategies.
- Fake content generation: Generative AI will produce convincing fake news and social media profiles to deceive targets.
Consumers and organizations will need advanced, AI-driven defense systems to counter these evolving threats.
How do we test anti-spyware software?
Anti-Malware Protection (30%)
We evaluate how well the antivirus detects and removes various malware types like viruses, trojans, ransomware, and spyware.
- In-House Testing: Using 1,200 diverse malware samples, we conduct real-time attack simulations to assess detection and neutralization of known and emerging threats through signature-based and heuristic analysis.
- Independent Lab Results: We incorporate findings from respected institutes like AV-Test, SE Labs, and AV-Comparatives to validate our results.
Security and Privacy Features (30%)
We assess additional tools that enhance cybersecurity:
- Web Protection: Testing the software’s ability to block phishing sites and web-based threats by accessing known malicious websites.
- Firewall: Evaluating effectiveness using intrusion simulations and the ShieldsUP! test to secure network ports and monitor traffic.
- Password Manager: Assessing capabilities to generate, store, and auto-fill complex passwords, plus features like two-factor authentication and biometric login.
- VPN: Evaluating security protocols, encryption, speed, server locations, data limits, and support for streaming and peer-to-peer sharing while hiding IP addresses.
- Parental Controls: Testing screen time management, content filtering, location tracking, and resistance to bypass attempts to protect children.
- Identity Theft Protection: Assessing monitoring of personal info and responsiveness to potential identity theft alerts.
- Secure Cloud Storage: Evaluating capacity, security, usability, and features like file encryption and secure sharing.
- Anti-Ransomware: Simulating attacks to test detection and blocking of unauthorized encryption via behavioral detection and exploit prevention.
- Dark Web Monitoring: Checking effectiveness in scanning the dark web for personal info and providing timely alerts.
System Performance Impact (10%)
We measure how the antivirus affects device performance during everyday tasks:
- Resource Usage: Monitoring CPU and memory during scans and real-time protection.
- Performance Tests: Evaluating impact on launching apps, downloading files, browsing websites, and copying data, aligned with AV-Test criteria.
False Positives (10%)
Accuracy is crucial to avoid interruptions:
- False Positive Detection: Assessing how often legitimate applications or files are incorrectly flagged.
- Usability Tests: Referencing AV-Test evaluations to gauge false positive frequency for effectiveness and user-friendliness.
Price and Value (10%)
We analyze overall value by comparing features to cost:
- Cost Analysis: Considering subscription prices, device coverage, and multi-year plans.
- Feature Evaluation: Assessing if included features justify the price compared to competitors.
Ownership and Reputation (10%)
Trust is essential in cybersecurity providers:
- Company Background: Researching history, industry track record, mergers, or acquisitions.
- Privacy Policies: Examining data handling, privacy commitment, and compliance with regulations.
- Ethical Conduct: Investigating past unethical behavior, data breaches, or controversies.
Sources and tools
Below are the sources and tools we’ve used to test the antivirus software:
- Apple Platform Security
- AV-Comparatives Consumer
- AV-Test Android
- AV-Test macOS
- AV-Test Windows
- GRC Firewall Test
- Microsoft Defender
- SpeedTest VPN
- Trustpilot Security Software
Read more about how we test antivirus software.
What anti-spyware software have we tested?
We have tested 39 software from 28 brands. These range from free antivirus programs, to entry-level paid anti-spyware programs, mid-range paid anti-spyware software, and full-featured internet security suites.
These are the programs we recommend:
- Norton Antivirus Plus
- Norton 360 Standard
- Norton 360 Deluxe
- Norton 360 Advanced
- Norton 360 for Gamers
- Norton Antivirus for Mac
- Avast Antivirus One
- TotalAV Antivirus
- Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
- Bitdefender Internet Security
- Bitdefender Total Security
- Bitdefender Premium Security
- McAfee Antivirus LiveSafe
- McAfee Total Protection
- Panda Dome Antivirus
- Avira Antivirus Prime
- Surfshark Antivirus
- Intego Antivirus
- Kaspersky Antivirus Standard
- Kaspersky Antivirus Plus
- Kaspersky Antivirus Premium
- AVG Antivirus
We believe that Norton Antivirus Plus is the best entry-level antivirus software and Norton 360 Deluxe the best antivirus all around.
If you have a specific operating system that you would like to protect, we probably have a dedicated antivirus comparison for it:
- The best antivirus of 2026 – For all OS.
- The best antivirus for Windows 11 – For Microsoft’s latest desktop OS.
- The best antivirus for macOS – For Apple’s desktop OS.
- The best antivirus for Android – For Google’s mobile OS.
- The best antivirus for iPhone – For Apple’s mobile OS.
- The best antivirus with a VPN – For both security and privacy.
- The best antivirus with a Firewall – For a focus on network security.
- The best VPN of 2026 – For a dedicated privacy solution.
Click the links to be taken to your comparison of choice.
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Author: Tibor Moes
Founder & Chief Editor at SoftwareLab
Tibor has tested 28 antivirus programs and 25 VPN services, and holds a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate from Stanford University.
He uses Norton to protect his devices, NordVPN for his privacy, and Proton for his passwords and email.