The 4 Best (100% FREE) Antivirus Software of 2023

Summary

Norton is the best paid antivirus software. It has the best device, privacy, and identity protection. 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

Panda is the best free antivirus software. It includes real-time anti-malware protection and a free VPN with a 150 MB / day data limit.

• 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: 50%. Panda offers anti-malware and a free VPN with a 150 MB / day data limit. Get Panda’s paid plans for more features.
• Price: 75%. Panda’s free antivirus is an excellent option for basic and free protection. For complete protection, get the paid plans.

See Panda’s antivirus options here.

Summary

Bitdefender offers one of the best free antivirus solutions. Thanks to its cloud-based approach to scanning, it has a minimal speed impact.

• 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: 50%. Bitdefender offers anti-malware and anti-phishing protection. Get Bitdefender’s paid plans for more features.
• Price: 75%. Bitdefender’s free antivirus is an excellent option for basic and free protection. For complete protection, get the paid plans.

See Bitdefender’s antivirus options here.

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: 60%. Kaspersky offers excellent anti-malware and several limited bonus features. Get the paid plans for more features.
• Price: 75%. Kaspersky’s free antivirus is an excellent option for basic and free protection. For complete protection, get the paid plans.

See Kaspersky’s antivirus options here.

Antivirus software buying guide

Below we cover a range of topics:

• What is antivirus software?
• How does antivirus software work?
• Is Microsoft Defender good enough?
• What are the risks of free antivirus software?
• Does Windows 11 need antivirus software?
• How do we test antivirus software?
• How to choose the best free antivirus software?
• What cyber threats can antivirus protect you from?
• What cyber threat 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 is a digital program or suite of programs designed to safeguard your computer or network against a wide range of malicious software. These include viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, and other forms of harmful software.

The primary purpose of antivirus software is to detect, block, and remove any threats to your system. It provides a shield against the constant onslaught of potential malware, securing your sensitive data from unauthorized access, corruption, or theft.

Besides protection, most modern antivirus software comes equipped with tools for system optimization, secure browsing, password management, and more, which overall contribute to a safer and smoother digital experience.

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

How does antivirus software work?

Antivirus software uses several methodologies to identify and eradicate threats. The strategies vary from traditional signature-based detection to heuristic and behavior-based detection.

Signature-based detection

Signature-based detection is one of the oldest techniques used by antivirus software. Each piece of malware has a unique code or ‘signature.’ These signatures are stored in vast databases managed by cybersecurity firms. Antivirus software regularly updates its database of known malware signatures.

When a file enters your system, the antivirus software scans it and compares the file’s code against the signatures in the database. If a match is found, the file is flagged as a threat, and the user is alerted. The software then takes action based on predefined user settings, such as quarantining or deleting the infected file.

While effective against known threats, this method struggles with new malware for which a signature hasn’t yet been defined. This limitation paved the way for more advanced detection techniques like heuristic analysis and behavior-based detection.

Heuristic analysis

Heuristic analysis is a method used to detect unknown or new malware strains that haven’t been added to the signature database yet. This method does not merely look for known signatures; instead, it analyzes the file’s structure, code, and other characteristics to determine if it behaves like a known malware.

If a file exhibits behavior that resembles known malware – such as attempting to write data to an executable file or trying to access sensitive information – the heuristic analysis can flag it as potentially harmful. While it is a more proactive approach than signature-based detection, it also has a higher likelihood of false positives, flagging benign files as malicious.

Behavior-based detection

Behavior-based detection, also known as behavioral analysis or anomaly detection, monitors the behavior of applications in real-time. It aims to spot unusual behavior or anomalies, such as sudden data encryption or unauthorized modification of system settings, which could indicate a malware attack.

Unlike heuristic analysis, which analyzes a file before it executes, behavior-based detection allows the file to run in a controlled environment, monitoring its actions for any suspicious activities. This method is particularly effective against zero-day threats, ransomware, and advanced persistent threats (APTs) that might evade signature-based and heuristic detection methods. However, similar to heuristic analysis, it can also lead to false positives.

In conclusion, no single method can provide foolproof protection against all types of malware. The best antivirus software typically incorporates a blend of these techniques to deliver comprehensive protection against known, unknown, and emerging threats.

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

Is Microsoft Defender good enough?

Microsoft Defender, formerly known as Windows Defender, is a free antivirus solution that comes integrated into Windows 10 and Windows 11. Its prime responsibility is to shield your device against an array of malicious software, including viruses, ransomware, and spyware.

In recent years, Microsoft Defender has significantly evolved, with its detection rates and security capabilities now being on par with many stand-alone free antivirus software. Microsoft Defender provides several protective features, including:

• Real-Time Protection: This feature scans files, programs, and applications in real-time, blocking or quarantining anything suspicious before it can harm your device.
• Cloud-Delivered Protection: With the latest threat definitions being updated in real-time, this feature provides fast and comprehensive protection against emerging malware threats.
• Ransomware Protection: Microsoft Defender offers built-in ransomware protection via the Controlled folder access feature. It safeguards your files and folders from unauthorized changes.
• Firewall and Network Protection: An integrated firewall shields your device from network attacks and prevents unauthorized access to your network.
• Browser Integration: Microsoft Defender SmartScreen integrates with Edge browser to block known malicious websites, downloads, and phishing attempts.

Despite these robust features, the question of whether Microsoft Defender is ‘good enough’ largely depends on the specific needs of the user. For general users with basic online habits and a primary focus on ease-of-use and integration, Microsoft Defender might suffice.

However, when it comes to a more comprehensive security suite like Norton 360, Microsoft Defender falls short. Norton 360 offers a host of advanced security features not available in Microsoft Defender:

• Advanced Firewall: Norton’s smart firewall not only monitors inbound and outbound traffic but also includes advanced intrusion prevention capabilities that can identify suspicious behavior.
• VPN Service: Norton 360 includes a no-log VPN service that provides secure and anonymous browsing, a feature absent in Microsoft Defender.
• Parental Controls: Norton 360 provides sophisticated parental control features to help parents manage and monitor their children’s online activity.
• Password Manager: Norton 360 comes with a password manager that aids in creating, storing, and managing complex passwords securely, a component Microsoft Defender lacks.
• Webcam Protection: Norton 360 includes webcam protection, which prevents unauthorized access to your device’s webcam.
• Cloud Backup: Norton 360 provides cloud backup options, which are an excellent defense against data loss from ransomware attacks or system failures.

In conclusion, while Microsoft Defender is a viable choice for basic protection, its security features are not as comprehensive as those offered by premium suites like Norton 360. If you’re looking for a complete package that provides advanced protection, privacy tools, backup options, and more, investing in a more robust solution like Norton 360 would be a wise decision.

For more, read our review of Microsoft Defender.

What are the risks of free antivirus software?

While free antivirus software can serve as a handy tool in your cyber defense strategy, it’s crucial to remember that there might be certain drawbacks and risks associated with them.

Firstly, the level of protection offered by free antivirus solutions can greatly vary. Some of them do indeed deliver efficient real-time protection against malware, rivaling and even exceeding the capabilities of built-in options like Microsoft Defender.

On the other hand, certain free antivirus software may fall short in their protective abilities. For instance, when considering results from independent testing laboratories such as AV-Test, we find that some free brands do not match up to their counterparts in terms of malware detection and prevention.

Additionally, free antivirus solutions often come with a restricted set of features. Unlike their paid counterparts, they usually lack advanced functionalities like a secure VPN, password manager, parental controls, and other valuable tools that can bolster your cybersecurity posture. This can lead to limitations in offering comprehensive protection against a diverse range of threats.

Another critical aspect to consider is the business model of free antivirus software. Many of these products are provided for free as a means to promote a company’s premium offerings. However, in some instances, companies have been found to resort to less desirable methods to support their free products.

A notorious example is Avast, which, in the past, faced scrutiny for collecting and selling user data. Although Avast has since ceased this practice, it serves as a cautionary tale regarding the potential privacy risks involved with free antivirus software.

In conclusion, while free antivirus software can provide a basic level of protection, there are potential risks and limitations to consider. It’s crucial to scrutinize the capabilities, features, and privacy policies of any antivirus solution, free or paid, before deciding to trust it with your digital security.

For those seeking advanced protection features and peace of mind, investing in a reputable paid antivirus product might be a more suitable choice.

Does Windows 11 need antivirus software?

Windows 11, the latest operating system from Microsoft, has elevated its in-built security capabilities, offering an enhanced level of protection to its users. However, this doesn’t imply that additional antivirus software is unnecessary. Let’s delve into this topic in more detail.

Windows 11 boasts a comprehensive suite of security features baked directly into the system. At the core of these is Microsoft Defender, an advanced antivirus solution capable of real-time malware detection and removal. Coupled with this, there’s the firewall protection, which helps monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.

Additionally, Windows 11 introduces hardware-based security features, such as TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, aiming to add an extra layer of protection against sophisticated threats. TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0 secures cryptographic keys and other sensitive data, while Secure Boot helps protect your system from low-level attacks and rootkits.

When it comes to free antivirus solutions, they can offer additional protection layers but often bring limited benefits over the built-in Microsoft Defender. While some free antivirus software may deliver improved user interfaces or slightly different detection methods, they often lack advanced features, and their malware detection capabilities rarely exceed that of Microsoft Defender.

However, premium antivirus solutions provide an extensive range of additional security features that can greatly enhance Windows 11 security. They often include VPNs for secure browsing, advanced firewalls, parental controls, identity theft protection, password managers, and more robust malware detection methodologies, such as behavior-based detection, heuristic analysis, and sandboxing capabilities. Additionally, they offer dedicated customer support and regular updates to handle newly emerging threats promptly.

In conclusion, while Windows 11 has significantly improved in terms of built-in security features, premium antivirus software can still provide an invaluable layer of advanced protection. It’s always prudent to consider your specific security needs, threat exposure, and the sensitivity of the data you handle before deciding on your antivirus strategy.

For more, read our blog post on whether Windows 11 needs antivirus.

How do we test antivirus software?

Our evaluation of antivirus software encompasses a wide range of factors, each given a weighted score to provide a comprehensive assessment of the software’s overall effectiveness. Our testing methodology incorporates six primary elements:

1. Anti-malware protection (30%)
2. Security and privacy features (30%)
3. Speed impact (10%)
4. False positives (10%)
5. Price (10%)
6. Ownership and reputation (10%)

This rigorous process ensures that we examine each software from various angles, providing a well-rounded analysis and a fair representation of its performance. Now, let’s delve deeper into the details of our testing procedure.

Anti-malware protection (30%)

A significant chunk of our assessment revolves around anti-malware protection since it forms the backbone of any antivirus software. We use two primary techniques for this purpose: in-house testing and the analysis of AV-Test results.

In-house Testing

Our in-house testing involves creating a controlled environment where we expose a test computer to hundreds of malware samples via a USB drive. Our focus here is on the software’s ability to identify these threats effectively.

The testing doesn’t stop at mere detection; we simulate real-life malware attacks as well. This involves executing malware files and launching ransomware attacks to see how well the real-time protection reacts. The ability of an antivirus solution to detect and halt these attacks provides critical insights into its real-world effectiveness.

AV-Test Results

We also consider the results from AV-Test, an independent organization that evaluates and rates antivirus software. AV-Test conducts rigorous testing on Windows, Mac, and Android platforms, and their comprehensive protection tests include real-world testing and widespread and prevalent malware tests. Real-world tests involve web and email threats, while widespread and prevalent malware tests evaluate the software’s ability to detect already known malware. By including AV-Test results in our assessment, we ensure our findings are corroborated by an external, independent entity, thus bolstering the accuracy and reliability of our review.

In conclusion, when assessing anti-malware protection, we place a premium on comprehensive detection capabilities, effective real-time protection, and a robust response to varied threat types.

Security and privacy features (30%)

An antivirus software isn’t just about eliminating malware. It must also offer a comprehensive suite of security and privacy features to safeguard users against various cyber threats. This section of our evaluation process explores how different antivirus programs stack up in these areas, which collectively account for 30% of our overall assessment.

Web protection (anti-phishing)

A top-notch antivirus tool should offer robust web protection, primarily anti-phishing capabilities. Phishing attacks, wherein cybercriminals impersonate trusted entities to trick victims into revealing sensitive information, are all too common. We test this feature by introducing the antivirus to known phishing sites to observe whether it effectively flags and blocks these threats.

Firewall

A firewall acts as a security guard, scrutinizing incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined rules. We examine the quality and effectiveness of an antivirus software’s built-in firewall. Our tests involve attempts to bypass these firewalls using various techniques to ensure they are robust enough to keep intruders at bay.

Password manager

Password managers help store and manage users’ passwords securely. In testing this feature, we analyze the ease of use, security levels, and additional features like password generators and autofill capabilities. The ability to store an unlimited number of passwords across multiple devices is also a desirable trait we look for.

Virtual private network (VPN)

VPNs are essential tools for maintaining online privacy as they encrypt the user’s data and mask their IP address. We assess the speed, server variety, data limits, and the security protocols of the integrated VPN service, alongside its ability to bypass geo-restrictions.

Parental controls

For users with children, parental control features that can block inappropriate content, limit screen time, and monitor online activities are critical. We assess these features for their comprehensiveness, flexibility, and ease of use.

Identity theft protection

We evaluate if the software offers features like identity theft protection that can safeguard personal and financial information from cybercriminals. The availability of credit monitoring, social security number (SSN) tracking, and recovery assistance are key aspects we look at during our evaluation.

Secure cloud storage (cloud backup)

We examine whether the software offers secure cloud storage or backup solutions that can protect users’ data against loss due to ransomware attacks or hardware failures. We assess the storage space provided, the ease of backup, and the security protocols in place.

Anti-ransomware

Given the rise of ransomware attacks, we test the antivirus software’s capability to defend against such threats. This involves simulating ransomware attacks to see how effectively the software detects, blocks, and eliminates these threats, and if it can recover encrypted files.

Dark web monitoring

Finally, we analyze if the software includes dark web monitoring – a feature that scans the dark web for any leaked personal information. We look at how thorough these scans are, what kind of information they track, and how promptly they alert the user when leaks are detected.

In sum, our comprehensive evaluation process ensures that each antivirus software is tested for a wide array of security and privacy features, thereby offering users a holistic view of what to expect from each product.

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%)

When testing an antivirus software’s performance impact, we analyze the degree to which the software slows down a device during everyday tasks. To achieve the most precise results, we utilize AV-Test’s performance tests as our primary reference. T

hese tests assess how much the antivirus software impacts the speed of the computer while conducting common tasks such as loading popular websites, downloading and installing frequently used applications, copying files, and launching standard software applications.

This way, we ensure that the antivirus you choose will provide protection without impeding your device’s performance.

False positives (10%)

In our examination, we also account for the rate of false positives an antivirus software generates. False positives occur when an antivirus mistakenly identifies a safe file or application as a threat. Too many false positives can create unnecessary interruptions and diminish the user experience.

To measure this aspect, we refer to AV-Test’s usability tests, which involve scanning over a million known benign files and applications. A lower rate of false positives translates to a higher score in this category of our evaluation.

Price (10%)

Pricing is an important aspect of any purchase decision, and antivirus software is no different. But it’s not just about the bottom-line cost; the focus is on value for money. This involves comparing the range of features and protection levels you receive in relation to the price you pay.

It’s also essential to note that many companies offer introductory discounts for the first year, with prices increasing significantly from the second year onwards. Thus, we factor in both first-year and subsequent years’ pricing in our analysis.

Ownership and reputation (10%)

An antivirus software’s ownership and the company’s reputation play a significant role in our evaluation. This is due to the extensive access these applications have to your device and data. Trustworthy companies that respect user privacy are fundamental.

Not all companies maintain these standards, as was seen in the case of Avast, which faced backlash when it was revealed that they were selling user data through a subsidiary called Jumpshot. Thus, we research each company’s history, track record, and ownership structure to understand their stance on data privacy and other ethical considerations.

By breaking down these individual elements, we ensure that our analysis is thorough, offering users a comprehensive overview of the antivirus software market, helping them make an informed and safe choice.

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

How to choose the best free antivirus software?

Selecting the best free antivirus software requires a careful analysis of various elements, similar to choosing a paid antivirus. While you may not get the full range of features offered by premium versions, a quality free antivirus can still provide adequate protection. Here’s what to consider:

Reliable protection from malware

For any antivirus software, free or otherwise, dependable malware protection should be a primary concern. The program should not only remove existing malware but also effectively block new threats in real-time. Independent lab tests such as those conducted by AV-Test and AV-Comparatives can provide valuable insights into the reliability of a free antivirus solution’s malware protection capabilities.

Security updates

Emerging threats demand that any antivirus software remains current with its defense mechanisms. Regular security updates ensure that your free antivirus software keeps pace with evolving malware threats. Check if the antivirus solution you’re considering maintains a consistent schedule of security updates to keep its threat detection as current as possible.

Security features

While a free antivirus might not offer the complete suite of security features that a paid version does, it should still include essential protections. This might encompass email scanning, a secure browser for online shopping and banking, and possibly a basic firewall. Be sure to evaluate the free features on offer and consider their relevance to your security needs.

Performance impact

Even a free antivirus solution should not significantly slow down your device. Be aware that constant scanning and other security processes can sometimes impact device performance. As such, opt for an antivirus solution that provides robust protection while minimizing its impact on system speed. Independent test results can offer useful comparisons on this front.

Customer support

While customer support might be limited for free antivirus versions, some level of assistance is essential. It’s worth choosing a product that offers some form of support, be it through email, community forums, or a resource-rich website with FAQs and troubleshooting guides.

First-year and second price

While this factor is mostly applicable to paid antivirus software, some free versions offer premium features on a trial basis, which can then lead to charges. Ensure that the antivirus solution you opt for is entirely free or, if it does offer a paid version, you’re content with the services it provides once the trial period ends.

By considering these factors, you can select a free antivirus solution that provides solid protection against malware threats, with a set of features that match your security needs, all without compromising your device’s performance.

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 plays a crucial role in safeguarding digital devices against a myriad of cyber threats. It’s important to note, however, that while antivirus can guard against many forms of malicious software, it’s not a panacea for all digital threats. Let’s delve into some of the key cyber threats that antivirus can shield you from:

Malware

Malware, or malicious software, refers to a broad range of software specifically designed to harm or exploit any computing device or network. This includes viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, and others. Antivirus software actively monitors for malware signatures, quarantine them, and eliminates them to keep your system safe.

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

Adware

Adware is a form of malware that inundates you with unwanted ads. While not always harmful itself, adware can be incredibly annoying and can often pave the way for other, more dangerous malware. Antivirus software can detect and block adware, providing a more secure and clean browsing experience.

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

Botnets

A botnet is a network of compromised computers that hackers control to carry out tasks like sending spam or launching Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Antivirus software can prevent your device from becoming part of a botnet by blocking the malware that hackers use to hijack computers.

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

Keyloggers

Keyloggers are malicious programs that record every keystroke on a victim’s device, allowing attackers to steal sensitive information such as passwords or credit card numbers. Antivirus software can detect and eliminate keyloggers before they can cause harm.

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

Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim’s files, with the attacker then demanding a ransom to restore access. Some advanced antivirus solutions include specific anti-ransomware components to detect and block such threats.

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

Rootkits

Rootkits are a type of stealthy malware designed to hide the existence of certain processes or programs from normal methods of detection, allowing them to gain privileged access to a computer. Modern antivirus programs can detect and remove rootkits to keep your system secure.

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

Spyware

Spyware is software that spies on your computer activities for the purpose of stealing sensitive information without your consent. Antivirus software has spyware detection capabilities to identify and eradicate such threats.

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

Trojans

Trojans are deceptive software that appear legitimate but perform malicious activities once installed, such as stealing data or damaging the system. Antivirus programs can identify and remove Trojan threats effectively.

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

Viruses

Viruses are malicious programs that can replicate and spread to other systems, often causing harm to files or system structures. Antivirus software is specifically designed to detect, quarantine, and remove viruses.

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

Worms

Worms are self-replicating malware that spread across networks, exploiting vulnerabilities and consuming bandwidth. Antivirus solutions can detect and eradicate worms, preventing them from spreading and causing damage.

With a quality antivirus solution, you can guard against these and many other threats. However, as the threat landscape evolves, it’s crucial to keep your antivirus software up-to-date and remain vigilant about your online activities.

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

What cyber threat can antivirus not protect you from?

While antivirus software is an essential tool for safeguarding your digital devices against various types of malware, it’s not a cure-all for every cyber threat. Certain threats, primarily those involving human decision-making or exploiting previously unknown vulnerabilities, can bypass antivirus software. Here’s a closer look at some of these threats:

Phishing

Phishing involves fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details by disguising oneself as a trustworthy entity in electronic communication.

While some antivirus software includes anti-phishing features, it’s not foolproof, and a user can still fall for a phishing attack if they’re not vigilant. No software can completely protect against human error, making awareness and caution essential when dealing with unfamiliar or suspicious emails and websites.

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

Online Scams

Online scams range from advanced fee fraud, where scammers ask for a small upfront fee to unlock a much larger sum of money, to romance scams, where fraudsters form emotional connections with victims to scam them out of money.

Antivirus software can’t protect users from these scams, as they often involve deceit rather than malware. The best defense against such scams is user education and vigilance.

For more, read our blog post on online scams.

Social Engineering

Social engineering is the art of manipulating people so they give up confidential information. This can involve techniques such as pretexting, baiting, and tailgating, none of which involve malicious software. Since this form of threat exploits human vulnerabilities rather than technical ones, antivirus software offers little protection against it. Here too, user awareness and education are key defenses.

For more, read our blog post on social engineering.

Zero-Day Exploits

Zero-day exploits take advantage of software vulnerabilities that are unknown to the software maker, hence the term “zero-day” (meaning there have been zero days to fix the issue). By the time the vulnerability is discovered and a patch is issued, attackers may have already exploited it. Antivirus software struggles to protect against zero-day exploits, as they rely on known malware signatures and behaviors for detection. Advanced antivirus software may include heuristic analysis to detect previously unknown threats, but this is not foolproof.

While antivirus software provides vital protection against many types of cyber threats, it’s important to remember that it’s just one part of a comprehensive approach to cybersecurity. Good digital habits, staying informed about current threats, and using other security tools such as firewalls and secure networks, can significantly enhance your overall security.

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.

Popular free antivirus programs that we haven’t included on this page are Avast Free Antivirus (Avast One Essential), Avira Free Security, and AVG Antivirus Free. All of them offer solid antivirus software for Windows.