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The 7 Best Internet Security Software (2026 Update)
Updated: December 2025
By: Tibor Moes is the founder of SoftwareLab. He has tested 28 antivirus brands and studied Cybersecurity at Stanford. Read how we test antivirus.
Norton
Ranked #1 of 28
- Malware Protection 100%
- Security Features 100%
Norton has the best anti-malware protection, excellent security features, and a great price. It’s the best internet security software of 2026.
- Malware protection: 100%. Norton stopped all 1,200 malware attacks in our test.
- Security features: 100%. Anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Speed impact: 100%. Norton did not slow down our test PC.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.
Avast
Ranked #2 of 28
- Malware Protection 100%
- Security Features 80%
Avast offers excellent protection, many bonus features, and a beautiful design. However, it lacks a password manager.
- Malware protection: 100%. Avast stopped all 1,200 malware attacks in our test.
- Security features: 80%. Avast does not include a password manager.
- Speed impact: 100%. Avast did not slow down our test PC.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
The best internet security software of 2026
In 2026, we conducted a comprehensive test of 39 internet security suites from 28 brands. To evaluate real-time protection, we infected a test PC with 1,200 malware samples and analyzed how effectively each program responded.
In addition to malware defense, we thoroughly reviewed every suite’s firewall, password manager, anti-phishing tools, VPN, and other key security features. Here are the best internet security programs of 2026:
Scroll down for the reviews.
Norton Review
Norton is ranked #1 of 28 brands.
Norton is the best internet security software of 2026. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and an excellent price.
Buy it if you want complete protection. You will get excellent anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN, which will protect your privacy online.
- Malware protection: 100%. Norton detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Norton’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. Norton includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 100%. Compared to similar products at Bitdefender and McAfee, Norton offers more value for money.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Norton 360 Internet Security Review
Norton delivers the most comprehensive internet security protection across all major operating systems.
Malware Protection
In our hands-on testing, Norton achieved flawless protection results. Its real-time protection engine, SONAR, consistently blocked every one of the 1,200 malware samples and phishing attempts we used. To verify our findings, we analyzed the last 10 independent test results from AV-Test, where Norton also maintained a perfect 100% protection rate.
SONAR combines heuristic analysis and machine learning to detect both known and emerging threats. Instead of relying solely on malicious code signatures, it monitors behavior patterns to stop new and unknown forms of malware before they can cause harm.
Firewall Protection
Norton’s Smart Firewall goes beyond what the built-in Windows firewall offers. While Windows only inspects incoming connections, Norton also monitors outgoing traffic to identify suspicious or unauthorized data transfers. It automatically blocks suspicious behavior and conceals inactive network ports, making your system virtually invisible to port-scanning attacks.
VPN
Norton’s included VPN is among the best we’ve tested. It’s fast, secure, and genuinely private, using AES-256 encryption and OpenVPN protocol with a strict no-logs policy. It supports torrenting, features auto-connect, a kill switch, ad and tracker blocking, and split tunneling. Unlike competitors such as Bitdefender, which limit daily VPN data unless you upgrade, Norton includes unlimited VPN data in all its 360 plans.
Password Manager
Norton’s password manager integrates seamlessly across devices. It simplifies the creation of strong passwords, accurately auto-fills credentials, and supports biometric authentication via fingerprint or facial recognition. In our testing, it was reliable and easy to use across both desktop and mobile platforms.
Pricing & Plans
- Norton Antivirus Plus – €20 (Europe) / $30 (USA): Core protection with malware defense, firewall, and password manager for one PC or Mac.
- Norton 360 Standard – €35 (Europe) / $40 (USA): Adds VPN and dark web monitoring, covering one device in Europe or three in the USA.
- Norton 360 Deluxe – €40 (Europe) / $50 (USA): Includes privacy monitor and parental controls, protecting up to five devices.
- Norton 360 Advanced – €45 (Europe only): Expands coverage to ten devices and includes identity theft protection.
- Norton 360 Select + LifeLock – $100 (USA only): Adds comprehensive LifeLock identity protection and covers ten devices.
In some regions, Norton 360 Advanced is sold as Norton 360 Premium, which offers the same features minus identity protection.
Additional Features
- Safe Web Protection: Blocks dangerous and fraudulent websites.
- Cloud Backup: Stores important files securely online.
- Parental Controls: Helps monitor and manage children’s online activity.
- Privacy Monitor: Scans data brokers for personal information leaks.
- Webcam Protection: Prevents unauthorized access to your camera.
- Dark Web Monitoring: Alerts you if your information appears on the dark web.
- LifeLock Identity Protection: Offers recovery assistance in case of identity theft (available in the USA only).
Verdict: Is Norton the best internet security suite of 2026?
Absolutely. Based on our testing, Norton offers the most complete protection package available today. It merges robust device security with privacy and identity safeguards, delivering everything you need to stay safe online.
You can try Norton risk-free with its generous 60-day money-back guarantee.
Avast Review
Ranked #2 out of 28
Avast is ranked #2 of 28 brands.
Avast is one of the best internet security software of 2026. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, many security features, and one of the best designs we’ve seen.
Buy it if you want excellent protection and superb design. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, and a VPN. However, Avast does not include a password manager.
- Malware protection: 100%. Avast detected and removed all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Avast’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 80%. Avast one includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, and more. But no password manager.
- Price: 100%. Considering Avast’s excellent security features and design, its price is more than fair.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Avast One Internet Security Review
We tested Avast One extensively and found it to be one of the most capable internet security suites available today. Its malware protection performance rivals top-tier competitors like Norton and Bitdefender.
Paid plans come loaded with advanced tools such as an unlimited VPN and system optimization utilities. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, offering multi-device protection under a single subscription. Overall, Avast is an excellent choice for those seeking comprehensive, cross-platform security.
Malware Protection
In our tests, Avast detected every one of the 1,200 malware samples we used. Its real-time defense blocked even encrypted threats before they could install or execute. A full system scan averaged about 54 minutes—reasonably fast for such deep inspection. We found its detection accuracy to be exceptional, matching independent lab results. However, the free version displays frequent upgrade prompts, which can be intrusive.
Firewall Protection
Avast’s firewall provides solid control over network traffic, allowing users to manually approve or block app connections. While effective, it lacks the automation and intuitive design found in suites like Norton and Bitdefender. Another shortcoming is the missing Wi-Fi Inspector on Windows, a tool that used to help detect vulnerable or unsecured devices on your network.
VPN
Avast’s integrated VPN performs well for casual use. The free Avast One Essential plan includes 5GB of data per week—sufficient for light browsing and email but limited for streaming or large downloads.
The paid versions offer unlimited data, yet speeds and streaming access still trail behind the best VPN providers. It remains a convenient inclusion for users seeking built-in online privacy, though heavy users may prefer a standalone premium VPN service.
Additional Tools
Avast includes a diverse range of utility and protection features, designed to enhance both security and performance:
- Browser Cleaner: Clears cookies, cache, and browsing data to protect privacy.
- Software Updater: Automatically checks and installs updates for vulnerable apps.
- Ransomware Shield: Blocks unauthorized attempts to modify sensitive files.
- Email Protection: Scans incoming mail for phishing links and attachments.
- Password Protection: Guards stored browser passwords against theft.
- Tracking Prevention (Premium): Stops websites from collecting personal data.
Verdict: Is Avast the best internet security suite of 2026?
Avast delivers powerful, full-spectrum protection that performs exceptionally well in malware detection and day-to-day threat prevention. While it lacks built-in parental controls or a password manager, its combination of features, usability, and system optimization tools make it a compelling option.
For families or users seeking a more complete privacy suite, Norton 360 Deluxe remains the better all-in-one alternative. Still, Avast One stands as one of the most versatile and affordable internet security platforms—and with a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can test it without risk.
TotalAV Review
Ranked #3 out of 28
TotalAV is ranked #3 of 28 brands.
TotalAV is one of the best internet security software of 2026. It has near-perfect anti-malware test scores, an intuitive design, no impact on the speed of your PC, and lots of security features.
Buy it if you want an easy-to-use program at a great price. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a password manager, and a VPN, which will protect your privacy online. But no firewall.
- Malware protection: 99.8%. TotalAV detected and removed nearly all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. TotalAV’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 90%. TotalAV includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, VPN, and a password manager. But it doesn’t have a firewall.
- Price: 90%. TotalAV offers generous discounts in the first year, but high renewal prices in the second year.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
TotalAV Internet Security Review
TotalAV delivers reliable, intuitive, and affordable protection designed for users who want powerful internet security without complexity.
Malware Protection
In our testing, TotalAV demonstrated excellent malware defense powered by Avira’s scanning engine. We evaluated it using more than 1,200 malware samples, and it blocked 99.8% of them — an outstanding result that includes ransomware, spyware, and trojans.
The software provides multiple scan options: Quick, System, Smart, and Custom. During our full System Scan, which took just under an hour, we observed minimal performance slowdown. Its real-time protection effectively stopped malicious downloads and file executions as they occurred.
VPN
TotalAV’s built-in Safe Browsing VPN is a strong performer for a bundled service. With 48 server locations worldwide, it delivers stable connections, reliable speeds, and compatibility with major streaming platforms.
It also supports torrenting (P2P) and includes essential privacy tools like a kill switch and automatic activation on unsecured Wi-Fi networks. While dedicated VPN providers offer faster speeds and more customization, TotalAV’s integrated VPN is an excellent inclusion for everyday privacy and streaming needs.
Password Manager
We tested Total Password, TotalAV’s password manager, and found it secure and easy to use. It employs 256-bit AES encryption to safeguard credentials and includes features like auto-save, auto-fill, and two-factor authentication.
The interface is intuitive, and the vault worked seamlessly across browsers and devices. Although it lacks some advanced options—such as hardware-based 2FA—it covers the essential features most users need for safe password management.
Additional Features
TotalAV rounds out its protection suite with several useful extras that enhance both security and performance:
- Identity Theft Protection (by Aura): Monitors for personal data exposure and provides recovery support.
- System Tune-Up Tools: Includes a Startup Manager, Junk Cleaner, and Duplicate File Finder to optimize device performance.
- Ad Blocker (browser extension): Reduces intrusive ads and tracking scripts.
- Web Shield: Blocks phishing and malicious websites in real time.
Verdict: Is TotalAV the best internet security suite of 2026?
TotalAV offers a well-balanced blend of strong malware protection, a capable VPN, and a secure password manager—making it one of the best-value internet security packages we’ve tested. It’s ideal for users seeking comprehensive protection that’s simple to set up and maintain.
With its 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try TotalAV risk-free and experience a premium level of internet security at an accessible price.
Panda Review
Ranked #4 out of 28
Panda is ranked #4 of 28 brands.
Panda is an excellent internet security program. It has near-perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and flexible pricing.
Buy it if you want great protection and customization options. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN, which will protect your privacy online.
- Malware protection: 99%. Panda detected and removed nearly all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Panda’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. Panda Dome includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 80%. Compared to similar products at Norton, Panda Dome is expensive. However, its flexible pricing is excellent.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Panda Dome Internet Security Review
Panda Dome offers flexible pricing and well-rounded protection, making it an appealing choice for users who want customizable internet security across multiple devices.
Malware Protection
In our testing, Panda achieved a 99.9% detection rate in real-world conditions — an excellent result backed by consistent performance in AV-Comparatives reports since 2020. However, we observed a higher rate of false positives compared to leading competitors, occasionally flagging safe software as suspicious.
Panda uses a combination of big data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning to monitor and analyze every application on your device. This approach enables it to identify and block both known threats and emerging ones, including zero-day malware, ransomware, and advanced exploits.
While Panda does not participate in AV-Test evaluations, the independent data and our own results confirm its reliability.
Firewall Protection
Panda’s firewall provides full bidirectional filtering, managing both incoming and outgoing traffic. It automatically applies rules based on an application’s risk level but allows manual customization for advanced users. This balance between automation and control ensures solid protection without excessive complexity.
VPN
Every Panda Dome plan includes a built-in VPN. However, the free version limits usage to 150 MB per day — roughly four minutes of HD video streaming or about 75 website visits. The VPN uses Aura’s HydraVPN technology, offering AES-256 encryption, no-logs privacy, and support for torrenting.
While secure and user-friendly, it lacks advanced options such as a kill switch. The unlimited VPN included in the top-tier plan performs well but feels overpriced compared to standalone VPNs offering more features at similar costs.
Password Manager
Panda’s password manager is one of the highlights of its suite. It makes creating, storing, and autofilling passwords effortless while maintaining high security through AES-256 encryption and two-factor authentication. It also supports biometric login on mobile devices. The Chrome and Firefox extensions share the same interface as the Android and iOS apps, offering a smooth, consistent experience across platforms.
Pricing & Packages
- Panda Dome Essential – €25 (Europe) / $35 (USA): Includes antivirus protection and a firewall.
- Panda Dome Advanced – €35 (Europe) / $42 (USA): Adds anti-phishing tools and parental controls.
- Panda Dome Complete – €45 (Europe) / $54 (USA): Expands protection with a password manager and system optimizer.
- Panda Dome Premium – €50 (Europe) / $56 (USA): Adds unlimited VPN access and an update manager.
All plans can be extended to cover an unlimited number of devices, making Panda one of the most flexible options available.
Additional Features
Panda includes a generous selection of security and privacy tools:
- Safe Browsing: Blocks access to phishing and malicious websites.
- Dark Web Scanner: Alerts you if your email appears in leaked databases.
- System Optimization Tools: Clean up temporary files and cookies to enhance performance.
- Wi-Fi Protection: Evaluates your network’s security settings.
- Anti-Theft Tools: Locate, lock, or wipe your device if it’s lost or stolen.
- File Encryptor & Shredder: Encrypt confidential files or permanently delete sensitive data.
- USB Protection: Automatically scans removable drives for malware.
Verdict: Is Panda the best internet security suite of 2026?
Panda Dome is among the best options we tested, especially for Windows users. It combines excellent malware protection, strong privacy tools, and one of the best password managers in the market. Its flexible pricing and device scalability also make it a great value for households or small offices.
That said, Norton still offers more comprehensive protection for macOS and mobile devices, and its unlimited VPN comes at a lower overall cost. Still, if you primarily use Windows PCs, Panda Dome’s versatile internet security packages are a top-tier choice.
You can try Panda risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Bitdefender Review
Ranked #5 out of 28
Bitdefender is ranked #5 of 28 brands.
Bitdefender is an excellent internet security program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, many security features, and an excellent price.
Buy it if you want outstanding protection. But keep in mind that you will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, and a few bonus features. Not the password manager or unlimited VPN.
- Malware protection: 100%. Bitdefender detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Bitdefender’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 80%. Bitdefender has anti-malware, anti-phishing, and a firewall, but it misses a password manager and a VPN.
- Price: 100%. Although Bitdefender misses a few features, it has an excellent price, which gives it good value for money.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Bitdefender Internet Security Review
Bitdefender’s security suite stands out for its world-class malware detection, extensive protective features, and lightweight system impact. It’s one of the most complete internet security solutions available today.
Malware Protection
In our testing, Bitdefender achieved a flawless 100% malware detection rate, successfully blocking every malicious sample we used. Its real-time protection module, Advanced Threat Defense, goes beyond signature-based detection.
Instead, it uses behavioral analysis to monitor how applications act. If suspicious activity is detected—such as code injection or abnormal file access—Bitdefender automatically intervenes.
This approach allows Bitdefender to recognize both known and zero-day threats with exceptional accuracy while keeping false positives to a minimum. During our testing, it consistently detected and neutralized even the newest ransomware and trojans without slowing down the system.
Firewall Protection
Bitdefender’s firewall offers advanced two-way network filtering, protecting against both inbound and outbound threats. It actively detects and blocks port scans, a common technique hackers use to identify vulnerable network entry points. The firewall runs quietly in the background, adjusting rules automatically but still allowing manual customization for advanced users.
VPN
Bitdefender includes a VPN powered by Aura’s HydraVPN technology, offering AES-256 encryption, a strict no-logs policy, torrenting support, and solid speeds. However, the free version limits you to 200 MB per day—roughly five minutes of HD streaming or about 100 website visits.
Premium plans include features such as auto-connect, a kill switch, and split tunneling. To unlock unlimited data, you’ll need either Bitdefender Premium VPN or the Premium Security suite. While the VPN performs well, it’s best suited for light browsing unless you upgrade to the unlimited tier.
Password Manager
Bitdefender’s password manager is not bundled with most of its core plans—it’s sold separately or included in Bitdefender Premium Security. The manager is well-designed, offering encrypted storage, auto-fill, and synchronization across devices, but its separate pricing makes it less convenient than competitors like Norton, which include one by default.
Pricing & Packages
- Bitdefender Antivirus Plus – €15 (Europe) / $15 (USA): Core malware and phishing protection for one PC.
- Bitdefender Total Security – €50 (Europe) / $60 (USA): Adds performance optimization tools and coverage for multiple operating systems, protecting up to five devices.
- Bitdefender Premium Security – €70 (Europe) / $80 (USA): Adds unlimited VPN access and the password manager, protecting five devices.
- Bitdefender Ultimate Security – €80 (Europe) / $90 (USA): Adds identity theft protection and advanced monitoring, also covering five devices.
A free version, Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition, is also available. While it’s the best free antivirus in our experience, it’s quite limited compared to Bitdefender’s paid tiers and offers little beyond what Microsoft Defender already provides.
Additional Features
Bitdefender includes one of the broadest sets of tools in any internet security suite:
- Online Threat Prevention: Detects and blocks phishing and fraudulent websites.
- Vulnerability Scanner: Checks for outdated software and weak system configurations.
- Ransomware Remediation: Automatically restores files encrypted by ransomware.
- SafePay Browser: A secure, isolated browser for online banking and shopping.
- Microphone & Webcam Protection: Prevents unauthorized access to your hardware.
- Anti-Tracker: Removes invasive tracking scripts from browsers.
- Parental Advisor: Monitors and manages children’s online activity.
- Anti-Theft Tools: Locate, lock, or wipe lost devices remotely.
- One-Click Optimizer: Cleans up junk files and improves performance.
- File Shredder: Permanently deletes sensitive files.
Verdict: Is Bitdefender the best internet security suite of 2026?
Bitdefender remains one of the most advanced and polished security platforms we’ve tested. Its malware engine, firewall, VPN, and system optimization tools combine to provide premium protection.
However, the cost can add up if you want unlimited VPN data and the password manager, as they’re not included in the lower-tier plans. In contrast, Norton includes these features in its standard 360 packages.
Still, for users prioritizing cutting-edge malware defense and rich customization options, Bitdefender is a top-tier choice. You can try it risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
McAfee Review
Ranked #6 out of 28
McAfee is ranked #6 of 28 brands.
McAfee is an excellent internet security program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, an intuitive design, and all the security features you need.
Buy it if you want complete protection. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, a VPN, and, depending on where you live, identity theft protection.
- Malware protection: 100%. Mcafee detected and removed each of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. McAfee’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. McAfee includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 90%. McAfee is slightly more expensive than Norton, but allows you to protect an unlimited number of devices (in the US).
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 30-day return policy.
Detailed Review
McAfee Internet Security Review
McAfee delivers top-tier protection across all platforms and stands out as one of the few security suites that allow you to safeguard an unlimited number of devices under a single plan.
Malware Protection
McAfee’s malware defense is exceptional. In our testing, it achieved a perfect 100% detection rate, successfully identifying and removing every threat we introduced. These results align with AV-Test’s independent lab findings—since April 2020, McAfee has maintained flawless protection scores in every evaluation.
Its impressive accuracy comes from a powerful multi-layered Scan Engine, which:
- Compares files against an extensive malware database.
- Executes suspicious code safely within a sandboxed environment.
- Uses heuristic and behavioral analysis to identify new or evolving threats.
- Cleans or removes corrupted files automatically to prevent re-infection.
This combination of real-time analysis, sandboxing, and heuristic detection ensures comprehensive protection against all forms of malware, including ransomware, trojans, and spyware.
Firewall Protection
McAfee’s firewall is one of the best we’ve tested. It monitors both inbound and outbound network traffic and intelligently blocks suspicious activity. It also conceals open or inactive ports, preventing hackers from identifying vulnerabilities through port scanning. The firewall operates silently in the background while giving users fine-grained control when needed.
VPN
McAfee’s built-in VPN, Safe Connect, is one of its strongest features. It offers unlimited data (as long as auto-renewal is active), fast speeds, AES-256 encryption, and a strict no-logs policy. With servers in 45 countries, it supports torrenting and unblocks streaming platforms like Netflix on many servers.
However, some features—such as the kill switch and split tunneling—are not yet available across all operating systems. Additionally, disabling auto-renew limits the VPN to 500 MB per day. Despite these drawbacks, McAfee’s VPN is among the most generous and effective bundled VPNs on the market.
Password Manager
McAfee’s True Key password manager is outstanding. It securely stores and autofills passwords across platforms, supports two-factor authentication, and integrates biometric login via facial recognition or fingerprint scanning. It’s one of the few built-in managers that rivals standalone tools like Dashlane in both ease of use and reliability.
Pricing & Packages
- McAfee Basic – €30 (Europe) / $30 (USA): Includes antivirus, firewall, VPN, and password manager for one device.
- McAfee+ Premium – €45 (Europe) / $50 (USA): Adds personal data cleanup and extends protection to unlimited devices.
- McAfee+ Advanced – €65 (Europe) / $90 (USA): Adds identity theft protection, covering unlimited devices.
- McAfee+ Ultimate – €105 (Europe) / $200 (USA): Expands identity protection and privacy coverage for unlimited devices.
In some markets, these plans are branded as McAfee Total Protection, which corresponds to McAfee Basic and Essential—offering identical core features.
Additional Features
McAfee includes an extensive suite of security and performance tools:
- Secure Apps: Scans software for missing security updates.
- App Boost: Prioritizes CPU and memory resources for active apps.
- Browser Security: Blocks phishing and malicious websites.
- Web Boost: Prevents videos from autoplaying on websites.
- Tracker Remover: Deletes tracking cookies to improve privacy.
- ID Protection: Scans the dark web for compromised personal data.
- File Shredder: Permanently erases sensitive files.
- File Lock: Creates password-protected encrypted file vaults.
- Anti-Spam: Filters unwanted email in Outlook and Thunderbird.
- Safe Family: Comprehensive parental controls for managing children’s online activity.
Verdict: Is McAfee the best internet security suite of 2026?
McAfee is one of the best all-around solutions we’ve tested. Its malware protection is flawless, its VPN and password manager are excellent, and its interface is modern and easy to navigate. The ability to protect unlimited devices makes it especially valuable for households and small businesses.
Premium and Advanced plans offer robust privacy and identity protection features, making McAfee particularly strong for users in the United States.
You can try McAfee risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Avira Review
Ranked #7 out of 28
Avira is ranked #7 of 28 brands.
Avira is an excellent internet security program. It has perfect anti-malware protection, no impact on the speed of your PC, all the security features you need, and a great design.
Buy it if you want excellent protection and intuitive design. You will get anti-malware, anti-phishing, a password manager, and a VPN. On top of that, Avira finally includes an excellent firewall.
- Malware protection: 100%. Avira detected and removed all of the 1,200 malware samples in our test.
- Speed impact: 100%. Avira’s anti-malware engine is lightweight and did not slow down our test PC.
- Features: 100%. Avira includes anti-malware, anti-phishing, firewall, VPN, password manager, and more.
- Price: 90%. Avira has a great price. But with Norton, you’ll get a few more features for the same amount of money.
Try it risk-free, thanks to its 60-day return policy.
Detailed Review
Avira Internet Security Review
We conducted extensive testing of Avira’s internet security suite and found it to be a high-performing, well-balanced solution. It provides excellent malware protection, impressive optimization tools, and strong overall value—especially for users seeking an intuitive, lightweight security option.
Malware Protection
Avira’s cloud-based scanning engine impressed us with its speed and precision. During our testing, it achieved a 100% detection rate across all malware samples, including ransomware, spyware, and trojans.
Its Smart Scan feature goes beyond traditional virus detection, identifying privacy risks, outdated software, and system performance issues. This all-in-one approach makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users who want thorough protection with minimal effort.
Firewall Protection
Avira’s firewall offers advanced customization and fine-grained control. It uses intelligent algorithms to monitor network traffic and automatically blocks unauthorized access attempts. Users can create per-application rules, while the built-in Intrusion Prevention System adds an additional layer of defense against data exfiltration and external attacks.
VPN
Avira’s built-in Phantom VPN is secure and easy to use, featuring AES-256 encryption and support for P2P file sharing. It’s ideal for everyday browsing and public Wi-Fi protection, with only a 25–30% reduction in speed during our tests.
However, it struggled to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. For users who prioritize streaming or international access, a dedicated VPN may be more suitable.
Password Manager
Avira’s password manager is one of the best free options available. It offers unlimited password storage, AES-256 encryption, and two-factor authentication for enhanced security.
The cross-platform design ensures seamless syncing across devices. The only downside is the absence of a password generator in the browser extension, though it’s available in the web and mobile apps.
Additional Features
Avira enhances its security suite with several optimization and convenience tools:
- Device Optimizer: Cleared over 1GB of unnecessary files during testing.
- Startup Optimizer: Reduces boot time by managing background apps.
- Driver Updater: Keeps system drivers current to prevent vulnerabilities.
- Game Booster: Frees up resources for smoother gameplay.
- Battery Manager: Extends battery life but lacks advanced analytics for identifying power-hungry applications.
Verdict: Is Avira the best internet security suite of 2026?
Avira Internet Security (or Avira Prime, in its full-featured version) offers excellent protection and a sleek, user-friendly interface at a fair price. Its malware detection is flawless, and its system optimization tools make it a strong performer for everyday use.
While Norton 360 Deluxe includes additional features like parental controls and dark web monitoring, Avira remains an outstanding choice for those prioritizing simplicity, speed, and value.
You can try Avira risk-free with its 30-day money-back guarantee.
Specification comparison
We’ve compared the specifications of the best antivirus of 2026. To ensure a fair comparison, we selected the most affordable product from each brand that protects at least one PC with anti-malware, anti-phishing, a firewall, a password manager, and an unlimited VPN. These are:
- Norton 360 Standard
- Avast Ultimate
- TotalAV Total Security
- Panda Dome Premium
- Bitdefender Ultimate Security
- McAfee Basic
- Avira Prime
Compare the details below. Last Update: November 2025.
Test score comparison
We conduct in-house anti-malware tests and review the results from AV-Test, a German lab renowned for its objective evaluations. Below is the average of the last 10 AV-Test results for Windows. Their scoring criteria are:
- Protection (1-6): Effectiveness in blocking malware.
- Performance (1-6): Impact on system speed.
- Usability (1-6): Frequency of errors like false alarms.
We calculate a final score using this formula:
Final Score = 60% Protection + 20% Performance + 20% Usability.
While these results influence our choice of the best antivirus for Windows 11, other factors like privacy and identity protection also play a key role. For a similar analysis for Android or macOS, visit our other comparisons:
Note: Some brands, like Panda Antivirus and Surfshark Antivirus, participate less frequently in the AV-Tests; their scores are therefore less reliable.
Source: AV-Test. Last Update: November 2025.
Price comparison
Price matters. So, we compared the second-year prices in the U.S. for each software, rounding up for simplicity (e.g., $99.99 becomes $100). Note that some brands lack key features, affecting their overall value.
To make it a fair comparison, we looked at what it would cost us, to protect a single Windows PC with the most essential features:
- Anti-malware
- Anti-phishing (web protection)
- Firewall
- Password manager
- Unlimited VPN (no data limit).
Prices vary outside the U.S., so check the brands’ websites for your local pricing.
Last Update: November 2025.
User reviews
We’ve compared the user reviews of all internet security brands. We’ve used the scores and review count of TrustPilot, a leading user review platform.
We consider scores above 4.0 very good. Lower scores indicate that the brand might have a poor product or customer service. McAfee’s scores, for instance, are worrying.
Source: TrustPilot. Last Update: November 2025.
Buying Guide
Common questions about internet security software
How does internet security software work?
Modern internet security software use multiple detection methods to identify and block threats before they can harm your device:
- Signature-based detection: Compares files and programs against a database of known malware signatures to detect threats.
- Heuristic analysis: Identifies new or modified malware by examining suspicious code patterns.
- Behavioral detection: Monitors system and program activity in real time to detect unusual or harmful behavior.
- Real-time protection: Continuously scans files, downloads, and network traffic to block attacks instantly.
- Machine learning and AI: Uses data-driven algorithms to recognize evolving and previously unseen cyber threats.
For more, read our blog post on what antivirus software is.
What other features does internet security software have?
Modern internet security software go beyond malware detection, offering comprehensive digital protection tools:
- Anti-phishing protection: Blocks fake emails and malicious websites that try to steal personal data.
- Firewall: Monitors and controls network connections to prevent unauthorized access.
- Password manager: Encrypts and stores passwords securely, ensuring safe and easy logins.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts your internet connection and hides your IP address for privacy.
- Identity theft protection: Monitors personal data online and alerts you to potential breaches.
- Parental controls: Manages children’s screen time and blocks access to inappropriate content.
Together, these features provide robust defense against diverse cybersecurity threats, keeping you secure in a connected world.
What cyber threats can internet security protect you from?
Internet security software defends against a broad range of digital threats:
- Adware: Displays intrusive ads and can redirect web traffic.
- PUP (Potentially Unwanted Programs): Unwanted software that slows down your system or invades privacy.
- Ransomware: Encrypts files and demands payment for their release.
- Rootkits: Conceals malicious files to maintain hidden access.
- Spyware: Secretly monitors user activity and steals data.
- Trojans: Masquerades as legitimate software to deliver malware.
- Viruses: Infects and corrupts files, spreading across devices.
- Worms: Self-replicating malware that spreads through networks automatically.
Modern internet security tools go beyond malware protection, offering features like anti-phishing, firewalls, VPNs, password managers, identity theft protection, and parental controls to guard against broader cyber threats.
What cyber threats can’t internet security protect you from?
Even the best internet security program has limitations. It cannot fully protect against:
- Social engineering: Tricks users into giving away sensitive information or installing malware.
- Zero-day attacks: Exploits unknown vulnerabilities before patches or detection methods exist.
Stay safe out there.
Is the built-in internet security software good enough?
Windows Defender and macOS XProtect offer strong basic protection against malware and common threats. However, they lack key premium features found in dedicated internet security suites, such as:
- Password manager: For secure credential storage.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): For online privacy and encrypted browsing.
- Identity theft protection: To monitor and safeguard personal information.
- Parental controls: To manage children’s internet usage and safety.
For comprehensive protection, especially across multiple devices, a paid security suite offers significantly more value and flexibility.
How will AI shape cybercrime in 2026?
Artificial intelligence is reshaping both cybersecurity and cybercrime. Key emerging trends include:
- Automated phishing campaigns: AI will create highly personalized and convincing scams.
- Deepfake fraud: Realistic fake videos and voice cloning will be used for identity theft and scams.
- Adaptive malware: AI-driven malware will learn and evolve to bypass traditional defenses.
- Faster vulnerability exploitation: Machine learning tools will find and exploit software flaws more quickly.
- AI-powered social engineering: Attackers will use AI to analyze behavior and manipulate targets more effectively.
- Weaponized generative AI: Hackers may use AI models to write malicious code or fake legitimate content at scale.
Consumers and organizations will need advanced, AI-driven defense systems to counter these evolving threats.
How do we test internet security 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 internet security 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 2026 – For all OS.
- The best antivirus for Windows 11 – For Microsoft’s latest desktop OS.
- The best antivirus for macOS – For Apple’s desktop OS.
- The best antivirus for Android – For Google’s mobile OS.
- The best antivirus for iPhone – For Apple’s mobile OS.
- The best antivirus with a VPN – For both security and privacy.
- The best antivirus with a Firewall – For a focus on network security.
- The best VPN of 2026 – For a dedicated privacy solution.
Click the links to be taken to your comparison of choice.
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Author: Tibor Moes
Founder & Chief Editor at SoftwareLab
Tibor has tested 28 antivirus programs and 25 VPN services, and holds a Cybersecurity Graduate Certificate from Stanford University.
He uses Norton to protect his devices, NordVPN for his privacy, and Proton for his passwords and email.