Using antivirus software is crucial to protect your PCs from serious risks. Without it, you could fall victim to various threats like banking Trojans draining your accounts, being enlisted in a botnet for mass attacks, or having your important documents held for ransom. Although paying for protection is common, there are several free antivirus options available that offer reliable real-time malware protection. These free antivirus programs not only remove existing malware but also work to prevent ransomware, botnets, Trojans, and other malicious programs from infiltrating your system. Some even go the extra mile by blocking access to malware-hosting sites and phishing sites that try to steal your credentials. Surprisingly, some of these free antivirus programs even outperform some paid counterparts. Since they are free, you have the flexibility to try multiple options before settling on the one that suits you best. In this article, we've provided an overview of our top picks for free antivirus software, along with information on how we evaluate them and tips for choosing the right one for your needs.
Antivirus, also known as antivirus software or anti-malware software, is a computer program designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software (malware) from a computer or network. Its primary purpose is to protect your system from various types of threats, such as viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, adware, and ransomware.
The main goal of antivirus software is to ensure the security and integrity of your system and data by preventing malware from causing harm or accessing sensitive information. Using antivirus software is an essential aspect of computer security, as it helps users protect their devices and personal information from online threats.
Best Free Windows 11/10 Antivirus Software
Bitdefender:
- Bitdefender is known for its high level of malware protection, real-time threat detection, and strong security features. It offers a user-friendly interface, ensuring ease of use for both beginners and experienced users.
- Key Features: Real-time malware detection, advanced threat defense, multi-layer ransomware protection, anti-phishing, firewall, and Wi-Fi security advisor.
Norton:
- Norton is a trusted antivirus software that provides comprehensive protection against malware and other online threats. It offers real-time threat detection, firewall protection, and identity theft prevention.
- Key Features: Real-time malware detection, identity theft protection, cloud backup, firewall, and VPN for online privacy.
McAfee:
- McAfee offers robust malware protection and privacy features. It provides real-time threat detection, firewall protection, and performance optimization tools.
- Key Features: Real-time malware detection, firewall, privacy features, performance optimization, and identity theft protection.
Kaspersky:
- Kaspersky is known for its top-notch malware detection and reliable security features. It effectively protects against various cyber threats, including phishing attacks and ransomware.
- Key Features: Top-notch malware detection, anti-phishing, ransomware protection, webcam security, and optional VPN.
Avira:
- Avira is a lightweight antivirus software that offers strong malware protection and an optional VPN for added privacy and security.
- Key Features: Lightweight antivirus, strong malware protection, optional VPN, and system optimization tools.
Avast:
- Avast provides effective protection against malware and phishing attempts, ensuring that your online activities remain secure.
- Key Features: Real-time malware detection, anti-phishing, secure browsing, Wi-Fi security scanning, and optional VPN.
ESET:
- ESET is a powerful antivirus with minimal system impact, making it ideal for users looking for lightweight protection.
- Key Features: Powerful malware detection, minimal system impact, and ransomware protection.
AVG:
- AVG offers reliable malware protection and gives users the option to include a VPN for enhanced privacy and security.
- Key Features: Real-time malware detection, optional VPN, performance optimizer, and file shredder.
Trend Micro:
- Trend Micro provides a range of security features, including malware protection, email filtering, and web threat protection.
- Key Features: Malware protection, email filtering, web threat protection, and privacy scanner.
Microsoft Defender:
- Microsoft Defender is the built-in antivirus software for Windows 11. It provides real-time threat detection and a firewall to protect your system from malware and other online threats.
- Key Features: Built-in Windows 11 antivirus, real-time threat detection, and firewall.
