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The 7 Best Anti-Spyware Software (2025 Update)
Updated: January 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 360
Ranked #1 of 28 brands
- Spyware Protection 100%
- Security Features 100%
Norton has the best anti-spyware protection, excellent security features, and a great price. It’s the best anti-spyware of 2025.
- Spyware protection: 100%. Norton stopped all 1,200 malware & spyware 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 One
Ranked #2 of 28 brands
- Spyware Protection 100%
- Security Features 80%
Avast offers excellent protection, many bonus features, and a beautiful design. However, it lacks a password manager.
- Spyware protection: 100%. Avast stopped all 1,200 malware & spyware 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
For 2025, we tested 39 anti-spyware programs from 28 brands. Our tests involved infecting our PC with 1,200 malware samples, including spyware, to assess how well these programs could detect and remove them.
In addition to spyware protection, we evaluated the software’s firewalls, password managers, anti-phishing tools, VPNs, and other advanced security features in detail.
These are the best anti-spyware solutions of 2025:
- 🥇 Norton 360 – The #1 in 2025
- Avast One
- TotalAV
- Bitdefender
- McAfee
- Panda
- Avira
Scroll down for the reviews.
Norton Review
Norton is ranked #1 of 28 brands.
Norton is the best anti-spyware of 2025. It has perfect anti-spyware 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.
- Spyware protection: 100%. Norton detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware and spyware 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: Updated for 2025
Norton 360 is a comprehensive cybersecurity suite providing top-tier protection against spyware, malware, and phishing attacks across all major operating systems. Its robust tools and privacy features make it a leading choice for modern threat defense.
Anti-Spyware and Malware Protection
Norton’s real-time protection tool, SONAR (Symantec Online Network for Advanced Response), uses heuristic analysis and machine learning to detect both known threats and zero-day malware. It identifies suspicious program behaviors that may signal new spyware or malware variants.
In tests with 1,200 malware and spyware samples, Norton achieved a 100% detection rate, confirming its reliability. Independent testing by AV-Test further validates its consistent top-tier performance in malware protection.
Firewall
Norton’s Smart Firewall monitors both incoming and outgoing traffic, unlike the basic Windows firewall, which only monitors inbound connections. This feature identifies spyware attempting to transmit sensitive data externally and stealths inactive ports, thwarting port-scanning attacks.
VPN for Privacy Protection
Norton’s VPN enhances privacy by encrypting internet traffic with AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN protocols. This ensures spyware cannot monitor or steal your online activity or personal data. Its standout features include:
- No data limits, unlike competitors like Bitdefender
- Auto-connect for continuous protection
- Kill switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN disconnects
- Split tunneling for selective traffic routing
Additional Privacy Features
- Password Manager: Securely generates and stores complex passwords, with optional biometric access for added protection.
- Dark Web Monitoring: Scans the dark web for signs of compromised personal data.
- Webcam Protection: Blocks unauthorized webcam access—a common spyware tactic.
Plans and Pricing
Norton offers flexible pricing to suit different needs, all including spyware protection:
- Norton Antivirus Plus (€15/$20): Basic antivirus, firewall, and password manager for 1 PC or Mac.
- Norton 360 Standard (€30/$40): Adds VPN and dark web monitoring for 1 (Europe) or 3 (USA) devices.
- Norton 360 Deluxe (€35/$50): Includes parental controls and privacy monitoring for 5 devices.
- Norton 360 Advanced (€40): Adds identity theft protection, available in Europe, for up to 10 devices.
- Norton 360 Select + LifeLock ($99): Offers LifeLock identity theft protection for 10 devices (USA only).
Bonus Features for Enhanced Security
- Safe Web Extension: Blocks websites hosting spyware.
- Cloud Backup: Protects files from ransomware.
- Privacy Monitor: Identifies and removes personal data from data brokers.
Is Norton the Best Anti-Spyware of 2025?
Yes. Norton 360 provides unparalleled anti-spyware protection through advanced malware detection, a proactive firewall, encrypted VPN, and comprehensive privacy tools. Its multi-layered approach ensures your devices and personal data are secure from spyware.
With a 60-day money-back guarantee, Norton 360 is a risk-free choice for the best anti-spyware protection in 2025.
Avast Review
Ranked #2 out of 28 brands
Avast is ranked #2 of 28 brands.
Avast is one of the best anti-spyware of 2025. It has perfect anti-spyware 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.
- Spyware protection: 100%. Avast detected and removed all of the 1,200 malware and spyware 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: Updated for 2025
Avast One is a robust cybersecurity suite with a strong focus on anti-spyware and malware protection. It delivers a wide range of features for free and paid users, performing impressively in tests and making it a leading multi-platform security option for 2025.
Anti-Spyware and Malware Protection
Avast’s anti-malware engine excelled during our tests, detecting all 1,200 malware samples, including sophisticated spyware. Its real-time protection blocked complex, encrypted spyware downloads before they could infiltrate our systems. While full system scans took 54 minutes—slightly longer than competitors like Norton and Bitdefender—Avast maintained a perfect 100% detection rate, proving its reliability.
A downside of the free version is frequent upselling prompts, which can disrupt the user experience.
Firewall
Avast’s firewall is user-friendly for beginners and highly customizable for advanced users, allowing manual monitoring and blocking of suspicious network traffic.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
Avast One Essential includes a free VPN with 5GB of data per week—a generous offering compared to many competitors. Paid plans feature Avast’s unlimited VPN that is fast, secure (AES-256 encryption, OpenVPN protocol), and private, thanks to a strict no-logs policy. It supports torrenting (P2P) and includes a kill switch.
Additional Privacy Features
Beyond malware protection, Avast provides several privacy tools:
- Browser data clearing: Erases cached data and browsing history to reduce spyware tracking.
- Software updating: Keeps programs patched to prevent exploits.
- Email security: Scans attachments and links for spyware or phishing.
- Ransomware shielding: Guards critical folders from encryption by ransomware.
Some advanced features, like tracking prevention, are limited to premium users. However, Avast lacks a built-in password manager, a potential drawback for those seeking an all-in-one solution.
Plans and Pricing
Avast offers free and paid tiers with varying features:
- Avast Free Antivirus: Essential malware and spyware protection but includes frequent upsell prompts.
- Avast One Essential: Adds ransomware protection and 5GB weekly VPN data.
- Avast Premium Security: Features like unlimited VPN and firewall customization at a higher price.
While Avast’s pricing is competitive, it lacks some features provided by rivals, such as Norton’s password manager and parental controls.
Is Avast the Best Anti-Spyware of 2025?
Avast is a top contender, combining malware protection, privacy tools, and identity theft prevention in a comprehensive suite. Its missing password manager might disappoint some users, who may prefer Norton instead. Avast’s 30-day money-back guarantee allows risk-free exploration of its full capabilities.
TotalAV Review
Ranked #3 out of 28 brands
TotalAV is ranked #3 of 28 brands.
TotalAV is one of the best anti-spyware of 2025. It has near-perfect anti-spyware 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 anti-spyware 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.
- Spyware protection: 99.8%. TotalAV detected and removed nearly all of the 1,200 malware and spyware 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: Updated for 2025
TotalAV stands out as a cost-effective, user-friendly cybersecurity solution, combining robust anti-spyware and anti-malware tools. Its intuitive interface and reliable protection across multiple devices make it ideal for users seeking comprehensive security without added complexity.
Anti-Spyware and Malware Protection
Using Avira’s award-winning engine, TotalAV excels in detecting spyware, ransomware, trojans, and phishing attempts. In testing, it achieved a 99.8% detection rate, handling various scan types (Quick, System, Smart, and Custom). The System Scan was thorough yet efficient, taking about an hour with minimal system impact.
Real-time protection is particularly noteworthy, instantly blocking malicious downloads and monitoring for suspicious behavior, making it effective against evolving spyware threats.
VPN for Privacy Protection
TotalVPN encrypts internet traffic and features 48 global server locations, offering reliable speeds for streaming and P2P sharing. Though slightly slower than standalone VPNs, its built-in kill switch and auto-connect features ensure secure browsing, enhancing protection from spyware interception.
Password Manager
Total Password offers secure credential storage with 256-bit AES encryption, including auto-save, auto-fill, and two-factor authentication (2FA). While lacking advanced features like hardware-based 2FA, it provides straightforward, secure password management, safeguarding against spyware targeting weak credentials.
Additional Features
TotalAV includes several bonus tools:
- Identity Theft Protection: Powered by Aura, it monitors your personal data for potential breaches.
- System Tune-Up: Tools like Startup Manager and Junk Cleaner optimize performance, identifying spyware-induced slowdowns.
- Ad Blocker: Blocks intrusive ads and pop-ups that could carry spyware.
Is TotalAV the Best Anti-Spyware of 2025?
With nearly flawless malware detection, dependable real-time protection, and useful extras like a VPN and password manager, TotalAV offers a well-rounded security solution. While it lacks some advanced features of competitors like Norton or Bitdefender, its affordability, simplicity, and comprehensive tools make it a top choice for all-in-one protection. A 30-day refund policy adds a risk-free trial option.
Bitdefender Review
Ranked #4 out of 28 brands
Bitdefender is ranked #4 of 28 brands.
Bitdefender is an excellent anti-spyware program. It has perfect anti-spyware 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.
- Spyware protection: 100%. Bitdefender detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware and spyware 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: Updated for 2025
Bitdefender continues to lead the cybersecurity field, combining advanced technology and a user-friendly design to provide robust spyware, malware, and cyber threat protection. Its cutting-edge anti-spyware capabilities and low system impact make it a top choice for 2025.
Anti-Spyware and Malware Protection
Bitdefender’s malware engine delivers a perfect 100% detection rate, identifying and neutralizing all spyware in real-time. The Advanced Threat Defense system goes beyond signature-based methods by monitoring app behavior to detect threats like code injection, often used by spyware. This proactive approach is particularly effective against zero-day threats. During testing, Bitdefender achieved a low false positive rate, ensuring smooth, uninterrupted operation.
Firewall Protection
Bitdefender’s customizable firewall blocks both incoming and outgoing network threats, preventing spyware from exfiltrating data. It also stops port scans, a common tactic used by hackers to exploit vulnerabilities.
VPN for Privacy Protection
Bitdefender includes a free VPN with 200 MB daily data, suitable for light browsing but not for streaming. It uses AES-256 encryption and HydraVPN protocols to secure your connection. Bitdefender’s Premium VPN, available in higher-tier packages, offers unlimited data, P2P support, a kill switch, and features like split tunneling. While not as fast as standalone VPNs, it provides reliable privacy when bundled with Bitdefender.
Password Manager
Bitdefender’s Password Manager, included only in Premium Security plans or sold separately, supports AES-256 encryption, auto-fill, and two-factor authentication (2FA). While effective, its exclusion from lower-tier packages might deter users seeking an all-inclusive solution.
Additional Features
Bitdefender enhances device security with a suite of tools:
- Online Threat Prevention: Blocks phishing, malicious websites, and spyware-hosting pages.
- Vulnerability Scanner: Identifies system weaknesses.
- Ransomware Remediation: Detects ransomware and helps restore files.
- Safepay: Isolated browser for secure online transactions.
- Webcam and Microphone Protection: Prevents unauthorized access.
- Anti-Tracker: Blocks tracking cookies.
- Anti-Theft: Enables remote device location, lock, or wipe.
Plans and Pricing
Bitdefender offers a range of plans:
- Bitdefender Antivirus Plus (€15/$15): Basic protection for 1–10 PCs.
- Bitdefender Internet Security (€19/$25): Adds firewall and parental controls for 1–10 PCs.
- Bitdefender Total Security (€35/$40): Covers 5–10 devices across multiple platforms, with optimization tools.
- Bitdefender Premium Security (€55/$60): Includes unlimited VPN and password manager for up to 10 devices.
While effective, premium features like VPN and password manager are limited to higher-tier plans, making Bitdefender costlier than competitors like Norton, which includes these in most plans.
Is Bitdefender the Best Anti-Spyware of 2025?
Bitdefender remains a leading choice in 2025, offering exceptional malware detection, advanced threat protection, and robust privacy tools like Safepay and VPN. However, its premium packages may seem expensive for users expecting bundled features. Norton 360 offers better value at lower price points, but Bitdefender’s 30-day money-back guarantee makes it a risk-free choice for those seeking top-tier protection.
McAfee Review
Ranked #5 out of 28 brands
McAfee is ranked #5 of 28 brands.
McAfee is an excellent anti-spyware program. It has perfect anti-spyware 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.
- Spyware protection: 100%. Mcafee detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware and spyware 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: Updated for 2025
McAfee remains a leading choice for antivirus and anti-spyware solutions in 2025, providing comprehensive security across devices. It combines strong anti-malware protection, a robust firewall, unlimited-data VPN, and a highly regarded password manager for optimal security and privacy.
Anti-Spyware and Malware Protection
McAfee’s anti-malware engine continues to excel in third-party tests, maintaining a 100% malware protection score since 2020 (AV-Test). Our testing confirmed its effectiveness against spyware, ransomware, and other threats, both online and offline.
Key technologies powering McAfee’s detection include:
- Antivirus Scans: Matches files against an extensive malware database.
- Sandboxing: Safely executes suspicious code to evaluate behavior.
- Heuristic Analysis: Detects unknown threats through behavior-based techniques.
- File Repair: Removes harmful code to prevent corruption.
These methods give McAfee an edge in combating complex spyware threats.
Firewall Protection
McAfee’s advanced firewall blocks unauthorized traffic and prevents spyware from transmitting data. It also thwarts port scanning by cloaking unused ports, enhancing system security.
VPN for Privacy Protection
The Safe Connect VPN offers unlimited data for paid plans, with AES-256 encryption, servers in 45 countries, and compatibility with streaming services and P2P sharing. However, features like kill switch and split tunneling are not universally supported. Users opting out of auto-renewal are limited to 500 MB/day.
Password Manager
McAfee’s True Key password manager is highly secure, with AES-256 encryption, biometric login, auto-fill, and auto-save. It effectively safeguards credentials against spyware attempts.
Additional Features
McAfee’s suite includes:
- Secure Apps: Scans for vulnerabilities in software.
- Browser Security: Blocks phishing sites.
- Web Boost: Speeds up browsing by blocking autoplay videos.
- Tracker Remover: Deletes tracking cookies.
- Dark Web Scanner: Alerts if personal data is compromised.
- File Shredder and File Lock: Securely deletes files and protects sensitive data.
- Parental Controls: Helps monitor and protect children’s online activity.
- Anti-Spam: Reduces phishing risks via email.
Pricing and Plans
McAfee offers plans for varying needs:
- Basic (€30/$30): Antivirus, VPN, password manager, and firewall for 1 device.
- Essential/Plus (€40/$40): Covers 5 devices.
- Premium (€45/$45): Adds personal data cleanup for unlimited devices.
- Advanced (€65/$80): Includes identity theft protection for unlimited devices.
- Ultimate ($190, USA-only): Enhanced identity theft protection for unlimited devices.
Plans covering unlimited devices make McAfee ideal for households, though advanced features in premium plans can increase costs.
Is McAfee the Best Anti-Spyware of 2025?
McAfee combines top-notch malware detection, a strong firewall, and privacy tools like unlimited VPN and password management, making it a top choice. While premium plans are costlier, their robust features justify the investment for comprehensive security. A 30-day money-back guarantee allows users to test its capabilities risk-free.
Panda Review
Ranked #6 out of 28 brands
Panda is ranked #6 of 28 brands.
Panda is an excellent anti-spyware program. It has near-perfect anti-spyware 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.
- Spyware protection: 99%. Panda detected and removed nearly all of the 1,200 malware and spyware 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 Anti-Spyware Review: Updated for 2025
Panda Dome stands out with flexible pricing and robust anti-malware features, including a firewall and password manager, making it a solid choice for spyware protection. However, its higher false-positive rate and limited VPN may deter some users.
Anti-Spyware and Malware Protection
Panda Dome’s antivirus engine achieved 99.9% in real-world protection tests, effectively countering known and emerging threats like zero-day malware, ransomware, and spyware. However, its higher-than-average false positives can be inconvenient for users handling less-common software.
Using AI, machine learning, and big data, Panda detects both traditional and advanced threats. Although it skips AV-Test participation, AV-Comparatives rates its detection capabilities highly, despite the occasional false positives.
Firewall Protection
The firewall automatically manages incoming and outgoing connections, blocking suspicious activity while allowing trusted applications. Permissions can be manually adjusted, providing a strong defense against spyware attempting to exfiltrate data.
VPN for Privacy Protection
Panda’s free VPN offers only 150 MB/day, suitable for light use, while its Premium package includes an unlimited VPN. Powered by Aura, it provides AES-256 encryption and no-logs privacy but lacks a kill switch, which may expose data if the connection drops. At €50.00 standalone, the VPN’s limited features make it less competitive.
Password Manager
Panda’s password manager delivers an intuitive, secure experience on desktop and mobile, supporting auto-save, auto-fill, 2FA, and biometric login. Its inclusion in the Complete package enhances Panda’s appeal for users needing robust credential management.
Additional Features
Panda Dome includes several tools to boost security:
- Safe Browsing: Blocks malicious sites and phishing attempts.
- Dark Web Scanner: Alerts users to email compromises.
- PC Cleanup: Optimizes performance and detects spyware.
- Wi-Fi Protection: Identifies network vulnerabilities.
- File Encryptor & Shredder: Protects and permanently deletes sensitive data.
- USB Protection: Scans external devices for threats.
- Anti-Theft: Locates lost or stolen PCs.
Pricing and Packages
Panda Dome offers tiered plans, all scalable to unlimited devices:
- Essential (€17/$24): Basic antivirus and firewall for 1 device.
- Advanced (€23/$28): Adds anti-phishing and parental controls.
- Complete (€35/$43): Includes the password manager and PC cleanup.
- Premium (€60/$67): Adds unlimited VPN and an update manager.
Is Panda the Best Anti-Spyware of 2025?
Panda Dome provides strong spyware protection, a user-friendly password manager, and versatile pricing, making it a good choice for Windows users. Drawbacks include its false positives and limited VPN.
While Norton offers a broader feature set at a lower price, Panda’s flexibility and focus on Windows-based protection make it a reliable contender. A 30-day money-back guarantee allows risk-free testing to determine if it fits your needs.
Avira Review
Ranked #7 out of 28 brands
Avira is ranked #7 of 28 brands.
Avira is an excellent anti-spyware program. It has perfect anti-spyware 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.
- Spyware protection: 100%. Avira detected and removed all of the 1,200 malware and spyware 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: Updated for 2025
Avira continues to excel as a top-tier security solution in 2025, offering robust spyware protection, a powerful anti-malware engine, and a suite of features that provide excellent value for both free and premium users. Its cloud-based architecture ensures effective threat detection without compromising system performance.
Anti-Spyware and Malware Protection
Avira’s cloud-powered anti-malware engine achieved a perfect 100% detection rate in tests, effectively identifying spyware, ransomware, and phishing threats. Its lightweight design minimizes system impact, while the Smart Scan feature offers more than malware detection by identifying privacy risks and optimization issues, catering to both novice and advanced users.
Firewall Protection
Avira’s customizable firewall allows granular control over app data permissions, essential for blocking spyware and unauthorized data exfiltration. It also features intrusion prevention, ensuring additional protection against attempts to access or extract sensitive information.
VPN for Privacy Protection
The included Phantom VPN offers strong AES-256 encryption and no-logs privacy. While the free version has a 500 MB/month limit, the premium plan removes this cap and supports secure P2P sharing. Speeds were reduced by 25-30% during testing, sufficient for most tasks, though streaming geo-restriction bypassing was inconsistent.
Password Manager
Avira’s password manager stands out for offering unlimited storage in its free version, backed by AES-256 encryption and 2FA. However, the lack of a password generator within the browser extension is a minor drawback.
Additional Features
Avira offers tools that enhance security and system performance:
- Device Optimizer: Frees up space and improves performance by removing junk files.
- Startup Optimizer: Reduces boot times by managing startup programs.
- Driver Updater: Keeps drivers updated, reducing vulnerabilities.
- Game Booster: Optimizes performance during gaming by suspending background processes.
- Battery Manager: Optimizes battery use, though it lacks app-specific power monitoring.
Pricing and Packages
Avira’s plans cater to various needs, offering a rich feature set even in the free tier:
- Free Security: Antivirus, Smart Scan, 500 MB/month VPN, password manager, and basic optimizers.
- Antivirus Pro: Adds advanced ransomware and web protection.
- Internet Security: Includes all Pro features plus password manager and software updates.
- Prime: Offers unlimited VPN, advanced optimizations, and multi-device support.
The pricing is competitive, with Avira Prime delivering comprehensive features for an all-in-one security solution.
Is Avira the Best Anti-Spyware of 2025?
Avira remains a top choice for spyware and malware protection, featuring a customizable firewall, powerful detection capabilities, and useful performance-enhancing tools. Its free plan makes it accessible, while premium plans provide excellent value. However, users seeking advanced parental controls or superior VPN streaming performance might consider Norton 360 Deluxe as an alternative.
With a 30-day money-back guarantee, Avira is risk-free to try and assess for your needs.
Specification comparison
We’ve compared the specifications of the best antivirus of 2025. 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.
- Norton 360 Standard
- Avast One Antivirus
- TotalAV Total Security
- Bitdefender Internet Security with the Premium VPN
- McAfee Plus
- Panda Dome Premium
- Avira Prime
Compare the details below.
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: Brands not listed in the table either do not participate in AV-Test trials or are tested too infrequently, such as Surfshark Antivirus.
Source: AV-Test (Last updated: December 2024).
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.
User reviews
We’ve compared the user reviews of all antivirus 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 updated: December 2024).
Buying Guide
Common questions about antivirus software
How does anti-spyware software work?
Anti-spyware software identifies and eliminates harmful programs through various detection methods:
- Signature-based detection: Compares files to a database of known malware signatures.
- Heuristic analysis: Detects suspicious behavior or code patterns to catch new or unknown malware.
- Behavioral analysis: Monitors programs in real-time to spot unusual activity that could indicate malware.
For more, read our blog post on what antivirus software is.
What other features does anti-spyware have?
Modern anti-spyware programs offer more than basic malware protection, incorporating essential features like:
- Anti-phishing: Blocks fake websites and phishing attempts designed to steal personal data.
- Firewall: Monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, protecting against unauthorized access.
- Password Manager: Stores and manages strong, unique passwords for your accounts, ensuring better security.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts your internet connection, safeguarding your online activities and personal data.
- Identity Theft Protection: Monitors your personal information and alerts you if it’s at risk of being stolen or misused.
- Parental Controls: Lets parents restrict content, monitor activity, and set usage limits for children to keep them safe online.
By using comprehensive anti-spyware software, you get layered protection for both your device and personal information, reducing the risk of cyberattacks.
What cyber threats can anti-spyware protect you from?
Anti-spyware software protects users from a wide range of malware threats, including:
- Adware: Unwanted software that displays intrusive ads and tracks browsing habits.
- PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs): Unnecessary software that can slow down your system or change settings without consent.
- Ransomware: Malicious programs that lock or encrypt your files, demanding payment for their release.
- Rootkits: Hidden software that gives hackers unauthorized access to your system while evading detection.
- Spyware: Software that secretly collects your personal data, such as passwords or credit card details.
- Trojans: Malicious programs disguised as legitimate software, often used to gain backdoor access to your system.
- Viruses: Malicious code that infects and damages files, spreading from one device to another.
- Worms: Self-replicating malware that spreads across networks, infecting multiple systems without needing human action.
Thanks to additional tools like anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, a VPN, identity theft protection, and parental controls, modern antivirus suites can protect users from a wide array of cyber threats beyond just malware.
What cyber threats can’t anti-spyware protect you from?
Anti-spyware (or antivirus) software cannot protect you from social engineering attacks, which exploit human behavior to trick users into revealing personal information, such as phishing scams or impersonation.
Additionally, while anti-spyware provides strong protection, it is not always guaranteed to defend against zero-day attacks—new, previously unknown vulnerabilities that hackers exploit before software developers can release a fix. Staying vigilant and practicing safe online habits are essential to complement your security software.
Is the built-in anti-spyware software good enough?
The built-in security programs in Windows 11 and macOS, such as Windows Defender and XProtect, are effective at protecting against malware and spyware. However, they lack additional security features that provide comprehensive protection, such as:
- Password Manager: Stores and generates strong, unique passwords for your online accounts.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts your internet connection, safeguarding your data and privacy online.
- Identity Theft Protection: Monitors your personal data and alerts you to potential identity theft risks.
- Parental Controls: Helps parents manage and monitor their children’s online activities and screen time.
While built-in solutions are good for basic protection, premium security software offers a wider range of tools for more complete security.
How will AI shape spyware in 2025?
AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) will enable spyware to become smarter and more personalized. AI can help spyware learn user behavior, making it harder to detect by blending in with normal activity. LLMs could be used to generate highly convincing phishing messages or manipulate users through more advanced social engineering tactics, making it easier for attackers to trick people into installing spyware or sharing sensitive data.
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 software have we tested?
We have tested 39 antivirus software from 28 brands. These range from free antivirus programs, to entry-level paid antivirus programs, mid-range paid antivirus 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 2025 – 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 2025 – 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.
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