The 5 Best Anti-Spyware Software (2023 Update)

Summary

Norton has the best device, privacy, and identity protection. It has all the security features you need and a great price too.

• Malware protection: 100%. Norton averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 protection tests. It is excellent at detecting and removing malware.
• Speed impact: 100%. Norton averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 performance tests. It does not slow down your PC.
• Features: 100%. Norton offers anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, unlimited VPN, password manager, parental controls, and more.
• Price: 95%. Norton offers better value for money than all competitors, except for Kaspersky, which is slightly cheaper.

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Summary

Bitdefender offers excellent protection and bonus features. However, it’s pricey if you want the VPN and password manager.

• Malware protection: 95%. Bitdefender averaged 5.95 out of 6 in the last 10 protection tests. It is excellent at removing malware.
• Speed impact: 100%. Bitdefender averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 performance tests. It does not slow down your PC.
• Features: 95%. It offers anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, parental controls, and more. But the VPN and password manager cost extra.
• Price: 75%. If you only want the antivirus, Bitdefender offers great value. But if you want all features, Norton offers a better deal.

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Summary

McAfee offers excellent device, privacy, and identity protection. However, some features are only available in the USA.

• Malware protection: 100%. McAfee averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 protection tests. It is excellent at detecting and removing malware.
• Speed impact: 85%. McAfee averaged 5.85 out of 6 in the last 10 performance tests. So it has a minimal impact on your PC’s speed.
• Features: 100%. McAfee offers anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, unlimited VPN, password manager, parental controls, and more.
• Price: 95%. McAfee offers better value for money than most competitors, except Kaspersky, which is slightly cheaper.

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Summary

Panda offers excellent protection and has flexible pricing. However, it’s expensive if you want the unlimited VPN.

• Malware protection: 99%. Panda averaged 99.9% in the malware protection tests. It is excellent at detecting and removing malware.
• Speed impact: 99%. Panda averaged 99% in the performance tests. So it has almost no impact on your PC’s speed.
• Features: 100%. Panda offers anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, unlimited VPN, password manager, parental controls, and more.
• Price: 75%. Panda offers the most flexible pricing of all brands. But, if you want all the security features, Norton is more affordable.

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Summary

Kaspersky has excellent protection at a low price. But the war in Ukraine raises concerns about its ties to the Russian government.

• Malware protection: 100%. Kaspersky averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 protection tests. It is excellent at removing malware.
• Speed impact: 100%. Kasperksy averaged 6 out of 6 in the last 10 performance tests. So it does not slow down your PC.
• Features: 100%. Kaspersky has anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, unlimited VPN, password manager, parental controls, and more.
• Price: 100%. Kaspersky Plus is the most affordable way to protect a Windows PC with all essential features, including an unlimited VPN.

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Antivirus software buying guide

Below we cover a range of topics:

• What is antivirus software?
• How does antivirus software work?
• What’s the difference between anti-spyware and antivirus software?
• How do we test antivirus software?
• How to choose the best antivirus software?
• What cyber threats can antivirus protect you from?
• What cyber threats can antivirus not protect you from?
• What antivirus software have we tested?

Clicks the links to be taken to the one of your choice:

What is antivirus software?

Antivirus software, a critical component in digital security, is a set of programs designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software, commonly known as malware. In the evolving world of cyber threats, it safeguards against viruses, trojans, worms, ransomware, spyware, adware, and other nefarious cyber intrusions. More advanced antivirus software also provides protection against phishing attacks, firewall breaches, and online identity theft.

The software is an essential tool for anyone navigating the online world, from individual users to large corporations, as it keeps sensitive information, data, and systems safe from harmful cyber threats.

For more, read our blog post on what antivirus software is.

How does antivirus software work?

Antivirus software functions by using a variety of detection methods to identify threats on your device or network. Upon identification, it isolates and eliminates the threats before they can inflict damage.

The software is capable of continuous scanning and monitoring in the background, providing real-time protection while minimizing performance impact. Let’s delve into some of the detection techniques.

Signature-based detection

Signature-based detection, one of the oldest methods, involves matching harmful software with a database of known malware signatures. A signature is a unique string of code or ‘fingerprint’ that identifies a specific type of malware.

Antivirus software scans files and applications, comparing them to its database of signatures. If a match is found, it indicates the presence of malware, and the file or application is quarantined or removed.

Heuristic analysis

Heuristic analysis is a more proactive method, designed to catch new, or ‘zero-day’ malware, which hasn’t been previously identified and added to the signature database. Instead of matching signatures, heuristic analysis examines code and file behavior for characteristics typical of malware.

It identifies suspicious or abnormal activities, such as attempts to access sensitive data, modify system files, or replicate itself, which could suggest the presence of malware.

Behavior-based detection

Behavior-based detection, also known as behavior blocking, monitors the actions of applications in real-time. Rather than examining the code, it observes what an application does once executed.

If an application engages in activities typically associated with malware, such as encrypting large amounts of data quickly (a sign of ransomware) or trying to gain elevated system privileges, the antivirus software intervenes, blocking the suspicious actions and quarantining or removing the offending software.

For more, read our blog post on how antivirus software works.

What’s the difference between anti-spyware and antivirus software?

While the terms “anti-spyware” and “antivirus” are often used interchangeably, there are nuanced differences between them, primarily in their focus areas. However, it’s important to note that modern antivirus solutions encompass anti-spyware capabilities, and as such, the terms have become more synonymous over time.

Antivirus software, in its traditional sense, is designed to protect against a wide array of malicious software or malware, which includes viruses, worms, trojans, and more. On the other hand, anti-spyware software specifically targets spyware threats, a type of malware that quietly monitors your activities and collects personal and confidential information without your consent.

Spyware can be particularly harmful as it can track and record keystrokes (potentially capturing passwords and other sensitive data), browse your files, read your emails, and even hijack your web browser settings. The danger with spyware lies not only in data theft but also in the violation of personal privacy.

Another form of spyware, called Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs), are also worth noting. PUPs are software that, while not explicitly malicious, often perform activities that interfere with user experience or compromise security. They typically find their way onto your device via software bundling, sneaking into the installation of another program.

PUPs can include adware, junkware, or unnecessary toolbars that slow down your device or inundate you with ads. Some PUPs can act as a form of spyware, covertly collecting your personal data and browsing habits and sharing them with third parties without your knowledge. This makes it crucial to have a reliable antivirus or anti-spyware program, capable of identifying and removing PUPs from your system, thereby safeguarding your online privacy.

However, as the cyber threat landscape has evolved and become more complex, the line between antivirus and anti-spyware software has blurred. Today, comprehensive antivirus solutions include robust anti-spyware capabilities as part of their security suite. They not only protect against traditional viruses but also against spyware, ransomware, phishing attempts, and other online threats.

In other words, while all anti-spyware tools form part of an antivirus software, not all antivirus tools were initially equipped with anti-spyware functionality. This is no longer the case, and currently, choosing a well-rounded antivirus solution ensures you get robust anti-spyware protection too. It’s like getting a multi-purpose shield that safeguards against a myriad of online threats, spyware included.

For more, read our blog post on what anti-spyware software is.

How do we test antivirus software?

Our evaluation process for antivirus software is thorough and multifaceted. We assess each product on six crucial elements, each carrying a different weightage, to ensure a comprehensive review. These elements include:

• Anti-malware protection (30%)
• Security and privacy features (30%)
• Speed impact (10%)
• False positives (10%)
• Price (10%)
• Ownership and reputation (10%)

This methodical approach allows us to provide a well-rounded perspective on each software’s capabilities, performance, and value, helping users make an informed choice.

Anti-malware protection (30%)

The effectiveness of an antivirus program in providing robust anti-malware protection forms a critical part of our evaluation process. To ensure a rigorous assessment, we employ a two-pronged approach: conducting our own in-house testing and reviewing results from AV-Test, an internationally recognized testing lab.

In-house testing

Our in-house testing process is designed to closely mimic real-world scenarios. We expose the test PC to hundreds of malware samples via a USB device, testing the antivirus software’s ability to detect and neutralize them. This provides an understanding of how well the software can identify and eradicate threats that may land on a system via external storage devices, a common occurrence in everyday usage.

Additionally, we simulate active malware attacks by executing malware files and initiating ransomware attacks on the system. This allows us to evaluate the software’s real-time protection capabilities and its efficiency in halting threats before they can inflict damage. Such a test is vital because modern-day cyber threats often come disguised and may be triggered by seemingly innocuous activities like clicking on a link or downloading an email attachment.

AV-Test results

In addition to our in-house tests, we also consider AV-Test results in our assessment. AV-Test is a highly respected independent IT security institute known for its rigorous testing of antivirus software across various platforms, including Windows, Mac, and Android.

These results give us an understanding of the antivirus software’s performance against a wide range of malware in diverse environments and under different conditions. By integrating AV-Test results into our evaluation, we ensure our review is not only comprehensive but also aligned with global testing standards.

Security and privacy features (30%)

Assessing an antivirus software’s security and privacy features forms a significant part of our evaluation process, given the multitude of threats that users face online today. Here’s a look at some of the key features we examine:

Web protection (anti-phishing)

Web protection, particularly anti-phishing capabilities, is vital in protecting users from malicious websites that try to steal sensitive information. We test this by visiting a variety of known phishing websites and observe whether the software successfully blocks access and alerts the user about the potential threat.

Firewall

A firewall serves as a first line of defense, monitoring network traffic and preventing unauthorized access to your system. We test firewalls by attempting to connect to the test system from another device, assessing whether the software effectively blocks unauthorized connections while allowing safe ones.

Password manager

Password managers store, generate, and auto-fill complex passwords, enhancing security while simplifying user experience. We test this feature by evaluating its ease of use, password generation capability, and effectiveness in auto-filling passwords across various websites and applications.

Virtual private network (VPN)

VPNs protect privacy by creating a secure, encrypted connection, thereby shielding your data from prying eyes on public networks. We test VPNs by checking their encryption standards, assessing connection speeds, and verifying their no-logs policies to ensure they don’t track user activities.

Parental controls

Parental controls help safeguard children online by restricting access to inappropriate content and setting internet usage limits. We assess this feature by trying to access various age-inappropriate websites and attempting to override set usage limits.

Identity theft protection

This feature alerts users to potential identity theft by monitoring personal information online. We test this by entering user details into a monitored category and checking if the software sends an alert when this information appears in suspicious contexts online.

Secure cloud storage (cloud backup)

Secure cloud storage provides a safe space for users to back up important files, protecting them from loss due to ransomware or hardware failure. We test this feature by backing up and restoring files, checking for data integrity and encryption levels.

Anti-ransomware

Anti-ransomware tools prevent ransomware from encrypting your files, effectively rendering them inaccessible. We test this feature by simulating a ransomware attack to see if the antivirus software successfully thwarts it.

Dark web monitoring

Dark web monitoring scans the dark web for your personal information, alerting you if it appears in data breaches. We verify this feature by checking if alerts are triggered when simulated personal information is found in places associated with data breaches on the dark web.

Bonus features

An antivirus program can come with various entry-level functions, such as spam filters and secure browsers, and premium options like online storage with enhanced security. We consider the following bonus features worthy of your consideration:

• Ad Blocker
• Anti-theft
• Email protection
• File encryption
• File shredder
• Gaming mode
• Microphone protection
• PC maintenance features
• Secure browser (hardened browser to protect your online banking)
• Spam filter
• Startup optimizer
• Tune up tools
• Virtual keyboard
• Webcam protection

Speed impact (10%)

The impact of antivirus software on system speed is a key determinant of user experience. An effective antivirus solution should provide robust protection without significantly slowing down your computer. For this assessment, we rely on AV-Test’s performance tests.

These tests evaluate the software’s impact on system speed during common tasks such as downloading and installing applications, copying files, and browsing websites. The lesser the impact on system speed, the better the performance score.

False positives (10%)

False positives occur when an antivirus software incorrectly identifies a safe file or application as malicious. This can cause unnecessary alerts and disrupt the user’s activities.

To assess this, we use AV-Test’s usability tests, which measure the frequency of false positives during system scans and daily usage. A high number of false positives can lower a software’s usability score, as it signifies more potential interruptions for the user.

Price (10%)

In our evaluation, we also consider the cost of the antivirus software. However, it’s not about simply opting for the cheapest product but finding the best value for your money. We compare features, performance, and pricing across products to identify those that deliver superior protection at a reasonable cost.

It’s important to note that pricing can vary significantly between the first and second years, with substantial discounts often offered in the first year to attract new customers.

Ownership and reputation (10%)

The reputation and conduct of the company behind the antivirus software also play a crucial role in our assessment. Companies with a track record of respecting user privacy and maintaining high ethical standards score higher.

On the other hand, companies involved in scandals, such as Avast, which faced backlash for selling user data through a subsidiary called Jumpshot, are viewed unfavorably. Trustworthiness and respect for user privacy are as important as the technical capabilities of the antivirus software.

For more, read our blog post on how we test antivirus software.

How to choose the best antivirus software?

Selecting the right antivirus software involves evaluating various elements to ensure the product can effectively safeguard your devices while also meeting your specific needs. Here are some crucial considerations to make during this process:

Reliable protection from malware

The primary function of antivirus software is to protect your system from malware. Ensure that the software you choose has reliable anti-malware capabilities. Check for independent test results from reputable organizations like AV-Test, which provide insights into the software’s ability to detect and neutralize various malware types.

Security updates

Cyber threats evolve continuously, and new malware variants emerge daily. It’s crucial that your antivirus software stays up-to-date with these developments. Choose a product that provides regular and automatic security updates, so it’s equipped to deal with the latest threats.

Security features

Beyond basic malware protection, look for additional security features that meet your needs. These may include a firewall, password manager, VPN, parental controls, and more. The best software will offer a comprehensive suite of tools to protect you from a wide range of cyber threats.

Performance impact

Antivirus software can sometimes slow down your system due to the resources it uses. It’s essential to select a product that provides robust protection without significantly impacting your device’s performance. Review performance test results and user feedback to gauge the software’s effect on system speed.

Customer support

Even the best antivirus software can present challenges, especially for non-tech-savvy users. Availability of reliable customer support is crucial. Look for software that offers robust support, including live chat, email, and phone support, as well as extensive online resources.

First-year and second price

As you evaluate cost, be aware that many antivirus products offer substantial discounts for the first year, which can significantly increase in the second year. Ensure you’re comfortable with the full, non-discounted price, and check if the cost aligns with the software’s features and performance level. Remember, the best value often comes from a balance of price and quality.

Operating system

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 2023 – 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 VPN providers – For a dedicated privacy solution.

Click the links to be taken to your comparison of choice.

What cyber threats can antivirus protect you from?

Antivirus software serves as a crucial line of defense, shielding users from a broad spectrum of cyber threats. While not an absolute solution for every potential attack, antivirus software provides robust protection against the most common and damaging threats. Let’s delve into what these threats entail:

Malware

‘Malware’ is a broad term encompassing various malicious software designed to harm or exploit devices, networks, or services. This includes viruses, worms, ransomware, and spyware. Antivirus software can detect and remove such threats, shielding your system from unauthorized access or data loss.

For more, read our blog post on malware or malware examples.

Adware

Adware is a form of software that displays intrusive and often unwanted advertisements on your device. While some adware is merely annoying, others can have malicious characteristics, such as tracking your online activities or redirecting your browser to harmful sites. Antivirus software can block and eliminate adware.

For more, read our blog post on adware or adware examples.

Botnets

Botnets are networks of infected computers, often controlled by cybercriminals without the users’ knowledge. They can be used for various malicious activities, including DDoS attacks and spamming. Antivirus software can detect botnet-related malware, preventing your device from becoming part of such a network.

For more, read our blog post on botnets or botnet examples.

Keyloggers

Keyloggers are malicious programs that record keystrokes on a computer, often used to steal personal information like usernames and passwords. A reliable antivirus can detect and neutralize keyloggers before they compromise your data.

For more, read our blog post on keyloggers or keylogger types.

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts files on a victim’s computer, demanding a ransom for their release. Advanced antivirus software not only detects and removes ransomware threats but also includes anti-ransomware technology to protect your files from being encrypted.

For more, read our blog post on ransomware or ransomware examples.

Rootkits

Rootkits are stealthy forms of malware designed to provide continued privileged access to a computer while actively hiding their presence. Detecting rootkits can be challenging, but high-quality antivirus software employs specific technologies to uncover these hidden threats.

For more, read our blog post on rootkits or rootkit examples.

Spyware

Spyware is malicious software that covertly collects information about a user’s activities without their consent. It can steal personal and financial data, leading to identity theft and financial loss. Antivirus software can detect and remove spyware, safeguarding your privacy.

For more, read our blog post on spyware or spyware examples.

Trojans

Trojans are deceptive forms of malware that appear legitimate but perform malicious activities once installed. They can provide backdoor access to cybercriminals or launch destructive actions. Antivirus software provides effective defense against Trojans.

For more, read our blog post on trojans or trojan examples.

Viruses

Viruses are malicious programs that can self-replicate by modifying other computer programs, inserting their own code. They can cause serious harm, like corrupting data or taking over system resources. Antivirus software is specifically designed to identify and eliminate computer viruses.

For more, read our blog post on viruses or virus examples.

Worms

Worms are a type of malware that can spread across networks without user interaction, often exploiting vulnerabilities in operating systems. They can cause extensive damage by consuming bandwidth or overloading web servers. Antivirus software plays a pivotal role in preventing worm infections.

For more, read our blog post on worms or worm examples.

What cyber threats can antivirus not protect you from?

While antivirus software is a crucial component of online safety, it’s not an absolute shield against all types of cyber threats. Certain threats rely on manipulating user behavior or exploiting yet unknown vulnerabilities, making them challenging for antivirus solutions to tackle. Let’s look at these threats in detail:

Phishing

Phishing involves the use of deceptive emails or websites designed to trick individuals into providing sensitive data such as usernames, passwords, or credit card details.

Antivirus software can help filter phishing emails and warn about suspicious websites, but it can’t prevent users from willingly entering their details on a fraudulent site. User awareness and education remain essential for effective phishing prevention.

For more, read our blog post on phishing or phishing examples.

Online Scams

Online scams come in many forms, from lottery scams to tech support fraud, and they rely heavily on manipulating human psychology. They often coax victims into transferring money, revealing personal information, or downloading malicious software.

While antivirus software can block known malicious sites or downloads, it can’t entirely prevent users from falling for scams. Again, user vigilance and knowledge play crucial roles here.

For more, read our blog post on online scams.

Social Engineering

Social engineering is a method where cybercriminals manipulate individuals into revealing confidential information or performing actions that compromise security. Techniques involve impersonation, pretexting, baiting, and quid pro quo, among others.

Antivirus software provides no real defense against these kinds of manipulative tactics. As a countermeasure, users should be educated about the signs of social engineering attacks and how to respond.

For more, read our blog post on social engineering.

Zero-Day Exploits

Zero-day exploits refer to vulnerabilities in software that are unknown to the people who should be interested in mitigating the vulnerability (including the vendor of the target software). Until the vulnerability is mitigated, hackers can exploit it to adversely affect a computer program, data, or network.

Because antivirus software relies on virus definitions and abnormal behavior detection to identify threats, they may not immediately recognize a zero-day exploit. Advanced antivirus solutions may use heuristic analysis and artificial intelligence to detect such unknown threats, but these methods are not infallible. Regular software updates and patch installations are vital to protect against zero-day exploits.

For more, read our blog post on zero-day exploits.

What antivirus software have we tested?

We have tested 28 antivirus brands, ranging from entry-level free antivirus programs, to mid-range paid antivirus software and full-featured internet security suites. Below is the list of the 20 most important brands:

• Avast
• AVG
• Avira
• Bitdefender Antivirus
• ESET
• F-Secure
• Intego
• Kaspersky
• MacKeeper
• Malwarebytes
• McAfee Antivirus
• Microsoft Defender (Windows Defender)
• Norton Antivirus
• Panda
• PC Matic
• Sophos
• TotalAV
• Trend Micro
• VIPRE
• Webroot

The best antivirus programs are Norton 360 Deluxe, Norton 360 Advanced, and Bitdefender Total Security. By comparison, the other antivirus software cost too much, offer less capable protection from malware threats, or have no unlimited VPN access.