The 7 Best Antivirus for Windows 11 (2026 Update)

Norton 360 Antivirus Review

Norton delivers the most complete antivirus protection available across all major operating systems.

Anti-Malware Protection

Norton consistently achieves perfect malware detection scores. Its real-time protection system, known as SONAR, is among the most effective we’ve tested.

Based on the last ten results from AV-Test, Norton maintained a flawless 100% detection rate. During our own hands-on testing, it successfully identified and blocked all 1,200 malware samples and phishing attacks in real time.

SONAR combines heuristic analysis and machine learning to detect both known and emerging threats. Rather than relying solely on virus signatures, it identifies suspicious behaviors that indicate new or evolving malware. This proactive approach keeps your system secure against zero-day threats.

Firewall

Norton’s Smart Firewall adds a powerful layer of protection by monitoring both incoming and outgoing network traffic for suspicious activity. This is a major advantage over Windows’ built-in firewall, which only tracks incoming connections.

The Smart Firewall can detect when software attempts to establish unauthorized connections and block them automatically. It also hides inactive network ports, preventing hackers from exploiting them through port scanning or similar reconnaissance techniques.

VPN

Norton’s unlimited VPN stands out from the competition. It uses AES-256 encryption with the OpenVPN protocol, ensuring fast and secure connections. The VPN maintains a strict no-logs policy, supports torrenting (P2P), and includes advanced features like auto-connect, a kill switch, ad tracker blocking, and split tunneling.

Unlike many competitors—such as Bitdefender, which caps daily data at 200 MB unless you upgrade—Norton includes its unlimited VPN at no extra cost.

Password Manager

Norton’s password manager performs exceptionally well. Password creation is simple, auto-fill works seamlessly, and the vault can be accessed using biometric authentication like fingerprints or facial recognition. It’s secure, intuitive, and integrates smoothly across browsers and devices.

Pricing & Plans

• Norton Antivirus Plus – €20 (Europe) / $30 (USA): Includes antivirus, firewall, and password manager for 1 PC or Mac.
• Norton 360 Standard – €35 (Europe) / $40 (USA): Adds VPN and dark web monitoring; covers 1 (EU) or 3 (US) devices.
• Norton 360 Deluxe – €40 (Europe) / $50 (USA): Adds a privacy monitor and parental controls; protects 5 devices.
• Norton 360 Advanced – €45 (Europe only): Includes identity theft protection and covers 10 devices.
• Norton 360 Select + LifeLock – $100 (USA only): Adds LifeLock identity protection and protects 10 devices.

In some regions, Norton 360 Advanced is marketed as Norton 360 Premium, offering identical features minus identity theft protection.

Bonus Features

Norton goes beyond core antivirus functionality with an impressive suite of extras:

• Safe Web: Blocks malicious websites before they load.
• Cloud Backup: Stores critical files securely online.
• Parental Controls: Helps manage children’s online activity.
• Privacy Monitor: Identifies where personal data is exposed to data brokers.
• Webcam Protection: Prevents unauthorized webcam access.
• Dark Web Monitoring: Alerts you if your data appears on the dark web.
• LifeLock Identity Theft Protection: Detects and resolves identity theft incidents (U.S. only).

Verdict: Is Norton the Best Antivirus for Windows 11?

Yes. Based on our extensive testing, Norton is the best antivirus suite available in 2026. It combines exceptional malware detection with comprehensive privacy and identity protection tools.

With its mix of real-time threat defense, unlimited VPN, identity safeguards, and family-focused features, Norton 360 offers the most well-rounded protection package you can buy.

You can try Norton risk-free with its 60-day money-back guarantee.

Avast Antivirus Review

Avast Antivirus One delivers excellent all-around protection, placing it among the best antivirus solutions available today. In our testing, its malware detection matched the accuracy of industry leaders such as Norton and Bitdefender.

Its paid plans come packed with valuable extras, including an unlimited VPN, system optimization tools, and multi-device support across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. For users seeking strong, cross-platform protection, Avast One is an excellent choice.

Anti-Malware Protection

During our testing, Avast detected all 1,200 malware samples we used, including ransomware, trojans, and phishing threats. Its real-time protection system immediately blocked even encrypted malware downloads before they could execute.

A full system scan took approximately 54 minutes, which is faster than the industry average. Avast’s malware engine combines signature-based detection with behavioral monitoring to identify both known and emerging threats.

The only drawback is that the free version frequently displays upsell prompts for premium features, which can become intrusive over time.

Firewall

Avast includes a two-way firewall that tracks both inbound and outbound network activity, giving users the ability to manually block or approve specific applications. While effective, the interface isn’t as intuitive or automated as the firewalls offered by Norton or Bitdefender.

One notable limitation is the absence of the Wi-Fi Inspector on Windows, a tool that previously helped identify vulnerable devices and unsecured network connections.

VPN

Avast’s VPN performance depends on the plan you choose. The Avast One Essential free tier provides 5 GB of data per week, which is suitable for light browsing and occasional privacy use.

However, in our tests, the paid VPN showed slower speeds and struggled to unblock some streaming platforms compared to Bitdefender’s and Norton’s VPNs. Security remains solid, with AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN protocol, but users seeking top-tier VPN performance may find better options elsewhere.

Bonus Features

Avast includes a versatile suite of additional tools to enhance security and device performance:

• Browser data cleaner: Removes cookies and cached data to improve privacy.
• Software updater: Automatically installs critical application patches.
• Password protection: Secures saved login credentials in browsers.
• Ransomware shield: Prevents unauthorized file encryption.
• Email protection: Scans attachments and links for threats.
• Tracking prevention (premium only): Blocks online trackers for better anonymity.

These utilities make Avast One a well-rounded digital security suite, especially for users who want both antivirus protection and system maintenance in one package.

Verdict: Is Avast the Best Antivirus for Windows 11?

Avast remains one of the strongest antivirus solutions available, offering excellent malware protection and a wide array of security tools. It does, however, lack certain premium features such as a password manager and parental controls, which Norton 360 Deluxe provides.

If you’re looking for a powerful, all-purpose antivirus with great free and paid options, Avast is an outstanding choice. And with its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test it risk-free.

TotalAV Antivirus Review

TotalAV delivers affordable, user-friendly, and highly effective protection for all major devices.

Anti-Malware Protection

In our testing, TotalAV demonstrated near-perfect malware detection rates. Powered by Avira’s award-winning engine, it offers multiple scan types—Quick, System, Smart, and Custom—to suit different needs.

Our System Scan completed in roughly one hour, with minimal impact on system performance. Across more than a thousand test samples, TotalAV successfully detected 99.8% of malware, including ransomware, spyware, and trojans.

Its real-time protection layer immediately intercepted and blocked malicious downloads, preventing infections before they could spread.

VPN

TotalAV’s integrated Safe Browsing VPN is a strong addition. It features 48 global server locations, stable speeds, and full compatibility with popular streaming platforms and P2P file sharing.

Security-wise, it employs robust AES-256 encryption, along with a kill switch and auto-connect for public Wi-Fi networks. While it’s slightly slower than top standalone VPNs, it’s an excellent inclusion for users seeking privacy and convenience within one app.

Password Manager

We tested Total Password, TotalAV’s password management tool, and found it both secure and easy to use. It uses AES-256 encryption to safeguard credentials and includes auto-save, auto-fill, and two-factor authentication for added protection.

Although it lacks some advanced options like hardware key support (e.g., YubiKey), its clean design and reliable core functions make it a solid everyday password manager.

Bonus Features

TotalAV extends its protection suite with several valuable extras:

• Identity theft protection (powered by Aura) to monitor personal data.
• System tune-up tools, including a Startup Manager and Junk Cleaner, to optimize device performance.
• Additional utilities for browser cleanup and disk space recovery.

Together, these features enhance both security and usability, making TotalAV a comprehensive solution.

Verdict: Is TotalAV the Best Antivirus for Windows 11?

TotalAV is a powerful yet affordable antivirus suite that combines excellent malware protection with a dependable VPN and a capable password manager. Its clean interface and strong performance make it ideal for users who want simple, comprehensive security without complexity.

With its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try TotalAV completely risk-free. We confidently recommend it for anyone seeking reliable, all-in-one protection.

Panda Dome Antivirus Review

Panda Dome Antivirus delivers flexible pricing and reliable protection, making it an appealing option for users seeking customizable security plans.

Anti-Malware Protection

In our testing, Panda achieved a 99.9% malware detection rate, placing it among the most accurate antivirus programs. However, it also produced more false positives than many competitors, occasionally flagging safe applications as threats.

This score reflects both our internal tests and the average results from AV-Comparatives since 2020. While Panda doesn’t participate in AV-Test evaluations, its consistent AV-Comparatives results demonstrate strong real-world protection.

Panda’s detection engine leverages big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to analyze all applications on a device. This layered approach allows it to detect both established malware and emerging threats such as zero-day exploits, ransomware, and advanced persistent intrusions.

Firewall

Panda’s two-way firewall monitors incoming and outgoing connections across local and internet networks. It automatically assigns permissions based on each app’s risk profile, while still allowing users to adjust settings manually. This balance of automation and control provides robust protection without unnecessary complexity.

VPN

Every Panda Dome plan includes a built-in VPN, but the free version is limited to 150 MB per day—roughly enough for four minutes of 720p streaming or browsing around 75 websites.

Like Bitdefender, Panda’s VPN is powered by Aura’s HydraVPN technology, offering AES-256 encryption, solid speeds, and no-logs privacy. It supports torrenting (P2P), but lacks advanced options like a kill switch. Considering its standalone price of around €50, the limited data allowance makes it less competitive unless you upgrade to the Premium plan, which includes unlimited VPN use.

Password Manager

Panda’s password manager is one of the best in its class. It simplifies password creation, secure storage, and auto-fill, while supporting both two-factor authentication and biometric login.

The interface is consistent across Chrome, Firefox, Android, and iOS, providing a smooth experience across devices. This cross-platform cohesion gives it a professional and intuitive edge over many competitors.

Pricing & Plans

Panda Dome offers four main tiers, each scalable to protect an unlimited number of devices:

• Panda Dome Essential – €25 (Europe) / $35 (USA): Includes antivirus and firewall.
• Panda Dome Advanced – €35 (Europe) / $42 (USA): Adds anti-phishing and parental controls.
• Panda Dome Complete – €45 (Europe) / $54 (USA): Adds a password manager and system optimization tools.
• Panda Dome Premium – €50 (Europe) / $56 (USA): Adds an unlimited VPN and automatic update management.

This flexible structure allows users to tailor protection and cost precisely to their needs.

Bonus Features

Panda enhances its antivirus core with a rich suite of extras:

• Safe Browsing: Blocks phishing attempts and malicious websites.
• Dark Web Scanner: Alerts you if your email appears on the dark web.
• PC Cleanup Tools: Removes cookies and junk files to boost performance.
• Wi-Fi Protection: Scans networks for vulnerabilities.
• Anti-Theft Tools: Helps locate lost or stolen devices.
• File Encryption and Shredding: Protects and permanently deletes sensitive files.
• USB Protection: Scans external drives for threats before access.

These features position Panda as a full-fledged security suite rather than a simple antivirus.

Verdict: Is Panda the Best Antivirus for Windows 11?

Panda ranks among the top antivirus products in our testing, thanks to its excellent malware detection, flexible pricing, and feature-rich plans. We particularly liked its password manager and the option to scale coverage across unlimited devices.

However, we still give Norton a slight edge—its unlimited VPN, better cross-platform protection, and lower overall cost make it the stronger all-around choice.

That said, if you’re protecting primarily Windows PCs, Panda Dome remains a superb option for comprehensive, customizable security. You can try it risk-free with Panda’s 30-day money-back guarantee.

Bitdefender Antivirus Review

Bitdefender remains one of the most advanced and trusted antivirus solutions available. It combines exceptional malware protection with a wide range of privacy and performance tools, all while maintaining a light footprint on system resources.

Anti-Malware Protection

In our tests, Bitdefender achieved a perfect 100% detection rate, identifying and removing every malware sample we used. Its real-time protection system, Advanced Threat Defense, impressed us with both accuracy and speed.

Instead of relying solely on traditional signature-based detection, Bitdefender continuously monitors the behavior of applications. When it detects suspicious activity—such as code injection or unauthorized file modification—it instantly blocks the process.

This behavioral approach allows Bitdefender to stop both known and emerging threats with minimal false positives. During our hands-on tests, it caught the latest ransomware and zero-day malware within seconds.

Firewall

Bitdefender’s firewall offers robust two-way protection, monitoring both inbound and outbound traffic across local networks and the internet. It also automatically detects and blocks port scanning attempts, preventing hackers from probing open network ports on your device. This extra vigilance adds a valuable layer of defense beyond basic Windows protection.

VPN

Bitdefender includes a free VPN, but it’s limited to 200 MB per day—roughly equivalent to five minutes of HD video streaming or browsing 100 websites.

The VPN is based on Aura’s HydraVPN technology and uses AES-256 encryption, ensuring security and privacy. It supports torrenting (P2P) and includes advanced options such as auto-connect, kill switch, split tunneling, and launch on startup.

For unlimited VPN use, you’ll need to upgrade to Bitdefender Premium VPN or choose the Bitdefender Premium Security suite, both of which remove the data cap.

Password Manager

Bitdefender’s password manager isn’t bundled with its lower-tier plans. To access it, you’ll need to purchase it separately or choose Bitdefender Premium Security, which includes it alongside the unlimited VPN. The manager itself is highly secure and easy to use, offering encrypted password storage and autofill for multiple platforms.

Pricing & Packages

• Bitdefender Antivirus Plus – €15 (Europe) / $15 (USA): Includes antivirus and anti-phishing protection for 1 PC.
• Bitdefender Total Security – €50 (Europe) / $60 (USA): Adds system optimization tools and multi-OS support for 5 devices.
• Bitdefender Premium Security – €70 (Europe) / $80 (USA): Includes an unlimited VPN and password manager, protecting 5 devices.
• Bitdefender Ultimate Security – €80 (Europe) / $90 (USA): Adds identity theft protection for 5 devices.

There’s also a Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition, which offers solid basic protection but little beyond Microsoft Defender’s capabilities. We recommend opting for one of the paid plans, which deliver far more comprehensive protection.

Bonus Features

Bitdefender goes beyond standard antivirus capabilities with an extensive range of additional tools:

• Online Threat Prevention: Blocks phishing and malicious websites.
• Vulnerability Scan: Identifies outdated software, weak passwords, and system risks.
• Ransomware Remediation: Restores files encrypted during attacks.
• Anti-Spam: Filters unwanted emails in Outlook and Thunderbird.
• Safepay: Launches a secure browser for online banking.
• Webcam & Microphone Protection: Prevents unauthorized access.
• Anti-Tracker: Removes tracking cookies from browsers.
• Parental Advisor: Monitors children’s online activity.
• Anti-Theft: Locates, locks, or wipes lost devices remotely.
• One-Click Optimizer: Cleans up junk files and browser data.
• File Shredder: Permanently deletes sensitive files.

These features make Bitdefender one of the most feature-rich antivirus suites available.

Verdict: Is Bitdefender the Best Antivirus for Windows 11?

Bitdefender ranks among the top antivirus programs of 2026 thanks to its flawless malware protection, intelligent firewall, and advanced feature set. Its anti-ransomware defense, secure VPN, and system optimization tools make it an excellent all-rounder.

That said, Bitdefender can be more expensive than rivals like Norton, since key features such as the password manager and unlimited VPN are only included in the Premium Security tier or sold separately.

Still, for users seeking top-tier protection and performance, Bitdefender is one of the best antivirus solutions you can buy. You can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

McAfee Antivirus Review

McAfee Total Protection stands out for offering comprehensive protection across an unlimited number of devices, making it one of the most scalable antivirus solutions available.

Anti-Malware Protection

McAfee’s malware protection is world-class. Since April 2020, it has earned a 100% detection rate in every AV-Test evaluation. In our own testing, McAfee successfully identified and removed all 1,200 malware samples, including ransomware, trojans, and phishing attacks, both online and offline.

Its effectiveness comes from a sophisticated Scan Engine that combines several advanced detection layers:

• Signature matching: Compares files to a constantly updated database of malware samples.
• Sandbox analysis: Executes suspicious code safely in isolation to observe its behavior.
• Heuristic detection: Identifies new and evolving threats through behavior analysis.
• Code remediation: Removes malicious components from infected files when possible.

Together, these technologies deliver precise and proactive protection against all types of cyber threats.

Firewall

McAfee’s Smart Firewall is excellent. It monitors both incoming and outgoing traffic and automatically blocks suspicious connections. Additionally, it conceals open network ports, preventing hackers from detecting unused ones through port scanning. This adds an extra layer of stealth and network security that goes beyond the default Windows firewall.

VPN

McAfee’s built-in Safe Connect VPN offers unlimited data, making it one of the few antivirus providers to include full VPN access at no extra cost.

The VPN uses AES-256 encryption, maintains a strict no-logs policy, and provides access to servers in 45 countries. It supports torrenting and can stream Netflix on many servers.

That said, not all advanced features—like the kill switch and split tunneling—are available on every operating system. Additionally, if users disable auto-renewal, the VPN’s data limit drops to 500 MB per day.

Password Manager

McAfee’s True Key password manager is among the best integrated tools we’ve tested. It simplifies password creation, secure storage, and autofill across all platforms.

True Key supports biometric authentication via facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, ensuring both convenience and security. Its clean interface and cross-platform support make it a strong competitor to standalone options like Dashlane.

Pricing & Plans

• McAfee Basic – €30 (Europe) / $30 (USA): Includes antivirus, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, and password manager; protects 1 device.
• McAfee+ Premium – €45 (Europe) / $50 (USA): Adds personal data cleanup and covers unlimited devices.
• McAfee+ Advanced – €65 (Europe) / $90 (USA): Adds identity theft protection; covers unlimited devices.
• McAfee+ Ultimate – €105 (Europe) / $200 (USA): Expands identity protection features; covers unlimited devices.

In some markets, McAfee is still branded as Total Protection, offering equivalent features to McAfee Basic and Essential.

Bonus Features

McAfee offers a broad suite of additional tools that extend beyond antivirus protection:

• Secure Apps: Checks for software vulnerabilities and missing updates.
• App Boost: Optimizes system performance for frequently used programs.
• Browser Security: Blocks phishing and malicious websites.
• Web Boost: Stops videos from autoplaying online.
• Tracker Remover: Deletes tracking cookies to protect privacy.
• ID Protection: Monitors the dark web for exposed personal information.
• File Shredder: Securely erases sensitive files.
• File Lock: Encrypts and password-protects private files.
• Anti-Spam: Filters junk mail in Outlook and Thunderbird.
• Safe Family: Provides parental controls for managing kids’ online activity.

This comprehensive toolkit positions McAfee as a full-fledged security suite rather than a simple antivirus product.

Verdict: Is McAfee the Best Antivirus for Windows 11?

McAfee ranks among the best antivirus programs of 2026. It delivers flawless malware protection, an excellent password manager, and a fully featured unlimited VPN—all in a beautifully designed and user-friendly interface.

Its Premium and Advanced plans stand out for covering unlimited devices, making it ideal for families or users with multiple systems. Additionally, its privacy and identity protection tools, particularly in the U.S., rival those of dedicated identity security services.

With its strong feature set and 30-day money-back guarantee, McAfee offers one of the most complete and cost-effective security solutions available today.

Avira Antivirus Review

Avira Antivirus Prime delivers exceptional protection and outstanding value, earning a place among the best antivirus programs of 2026. In our testing, it achieved a 100% malware detection rate, offering both powerful security and excellent usability across its free and paid plans.

Anti-Malware Protection

Avira’s cloud-based malware scanner performed flawlessly in our hands-on tests, identifying every malware sample instantly without causing any noticeable system slowdown.

The Smart Scan feature impressed us with its versatility—it not only detects malware but also highlights privacy risks, vulnerable settings, and system performance issues. This makes Avira a comprehensive solution for both beginners and experienced users seeking an all-in-one security tool.

Firewall

Avira’s customizable firewall provides granular control over network security. It uses algorithmic traffic monitoring to manage both incoming and outgoing data and allows users to set individual app permissions.

The firewall also includes intrusion prevention technology, which helps block unauthorized access attempts and data extraction, strengthening your defense against hackers.

VPN

Avira’s Phantom VPN is a capable privacy tool suitable for everyday browsing and streaming. In our performance tests, it maintained solid speeds, reducing connection rates by just 25–30%—an acceptable trade-off for encrypted browsing.

Security is handled with AES-256 encryption, and P2P file sharing is supported. However, the VPN struggles to bypass geo-restrictions on major streaming platforms like Netflix or Disney+, which limits its appeal for frequent streamers.

Password Manager

Avira’s password manager is one of the strongest we’ve seen in a free antivirus suite. It offers unlimited password storage, even in the free version, and protects data with AES-256 encryption and two-factor authentication.

It syncs seamlessly across devices and browsers, though we did note one shortcoming: the browser extension lacks a built-in password generator, which would make creating strong passwords even easier.

Bonus Features

Avira includes an impressive range of system optimization tools designed to enhance performance:

• Device optimizer: Freed up over 1 GB of space in our tests by removing junk files.
• Startup optimizer: Speeds up boot times by managing background programs.
• Driver updater: Ensures hardware runs smoothly with the latest updates.
• Game booster: Improves gaming performance by reallocating system resources.
• Battery manager: Monitors energy consumption, though it could be improved with more detailed app-level power insights.

These additions make Avira a full-featured security suite that goes beyond basic antivirus protection.

Verdict: Is Avira the Best Antivirus for Windows 11?

Avira Antivirus Prime is an excellent choice for users seeking premium protection at a reasonable price. It combines outstanding malware detection with system optimization, privacy tools, and an intuitive interface.

While it lacks extras like parental controls—available in Norton 360 Deluxe—it remains a top-tier option for users focused on security and performance.

You can try Avira risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

Modern antivirus software uses multiple detection methods to identify and block threats before they can harm your device:

• Signature-based detection: Compares files to a database of known malware signatures to identify threats.
• Heuristic analysis: Detects new or modified malware by analyzing code structures and suspicious characteristics.
• Behavioral detection: Monitors real-time activity to flag abnormal or malicious behavior in programs.
• Real-time protection: Continuously scans your system to prevent infections before they occur.
• Machine learning and AI: Uses algorithms that learn from data to detect emerging and unknown threats with higher accuracy.

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

Modern antivirus suites go beyond malware detection, offering comprehensive digital protection tools:

• Anti-phishing protection: Blocks fake websites and emails designed to steal personal or financial information.
• Firewall: Monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic to block unauthorized access.
• Password manager: Stores and encrypts passwords securely, allowing you to manage logins safely.
• VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts your internet connection to protect privacy and hide your IP address.
• Identity theft protection: Monitors personal data like credit card or social security numbers for misuse.
• Parental controls: Allows parents to manage screen time and restrict access to inappropriate websites or apps.

Together, these features provide robust defense against diverse cybersecurity threats, keeping you secure in a connected world.

Antivirus software defends against a broad range of digital threats:

• Adware: Software that displays unwanted advertisements or redirects your browser.
• PUP (Potentially Unwanted Programs): Legitimate but intrusive software that slows down your device or tracks behavior.
• Ransomware: Malware that encrypts files and demands payment for decryption.
• Rootkits: Hidden programs that give hackers unauthorized access to your system.
• Spyware: Secretly collects personal data such as passwords or browsing habits.
• Trojans: Malicious software disguised as legitimate programs.
• Viruses: Code that infects and spreads between files, damaging data or systems.
• Worms: Self-replicating malware that spreads through networks without user interaction.

Modern antivirus 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.

Even the best antivirus has limitations. It cannot fully protect against:

• Social engineering: Psychological manipulation techniques, such as phishing or scams, that trick users into revealing information.
• Zero-day attacks: Newly discovered vulnerabilities exploited by hackers before antivirus vendors can update their databases.

Stay safe out there.

• TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module): Hardware chip that securely stores encryption keys and credentials.
• Secure Boot: Prevents unauthorized or malicious software from loading during startup.
• Windows Hello: Provides secure biometric login using facial recognition or fingerprints.
• BitLocker: Encrypts your hard drive to protect data in case of theft or loss.
• Virtualization-Based Security (VBS): Uses hardware virtualization to isolate critical processes and prevent attacks.
• Windows Defender Antivirus: Built-in protection against malware, ransomware, and other threats.
• Firewall and Network Protection: Monitors network connections to block unauthorized access and suspicious activity.

However, it lacks a cross-OS VPN and password manager.

• Anti-phishing: Limited protection against fake websites or deceptive emails.
• Password manager: Does not include a full-featured password management tool.
• VPN: Lacks an integrated VPN for secure and private browsing.
• Identity theft protection: No built-in monitoring for personal data leaks or misuse.
• Parental controls: Basic content filters only, lacking comprehensive monitoring and scheduling options.

For these features and more, a third-party security solution like Norton is advised.

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.

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 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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