Best Antivirus Software for PC In 2024 With our lives increasingly moving online, the threat of cyberattacks has become more prevalent than ever before. Personal information can be easily compromised if appropriate measures are not taken to protect it. It is crucial to have the best antivirus software installed on your devices to keep them secure. Forbes Advisor has compiled a list of the best antivirus software options available in 2024, taking into account factors like ease of use, price, and features. By choosing the right antivirus software, you can safeguard your personal information and enjoy peace of mind while browsing online. Some important features that should be considered when selecting antivirus software are real-time protection, anti-phishing capabilities, malware detection rates, privacy protection tools, and customer support. It is also important to choose an antivirus software that is compatible with your device’s operating system and offers regular updates to ensure continued protection against emerging threats.

Best Antivirus Software for PC In 2024

In today’s world, new malware is being developed every day, making it crucial to have antivirus software to protect your computers and mobile devices against online threats like data breaches, identity theft, scams, ransomware, and more. However, the security measures integrated into Windows and Mac operating systems may not always be sufficient against the latest cyber threats. Therefore, it’s important to be cautious about anything you download to ensure the safety and privacy of your device.With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right antivirus software for your specific needs.

To help make this decision easier for you, we conducted hands-on tests on 25 antivirus utilities and identified the top 10 best antivirus software for 2024. Our selection criteria were based on our personal experiences as well as insights from independent organizations that test security software along with our in-house trials for comprehensive evaluations.By investing in reliable antivirus software that offers real-time protection against viruses and malware and regularly updates its virus database, you can safeguard your device from various online threats. Along with choosing the right antivirus software, it’s also essential to follow basic cybersecurity practices like avoiding suspicious links or downloads and keeping your operating system up-to-date.

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Avira

Free version:	Yes
Max no. of devices:	5
Platforms:	Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
Current deal:	Get 1 year of Avira at 43% OFF!

Why We Picked It

Forbes Advisor has recently acknowledged Avira as the most valuable antivirus software due to its full-spectrum security against malware, including ransomware and phishing attacks. It also features a firewall and email security that secures devices against hacking attempts. Furthermore, Avira comes with a password manager, free VPN, and tracker remover to ensure the safety of personal information and devices. The program offers both free and premium versions starting at INR 917 for the first year, renewing annually at INR 1,529 for up to five devices. With its robust features and reasonable pricing, Avira is an excellent choice for those looking for reliable antivirus software.

Who should use it

Avira is an excellent option for those who want robust malware protection without going over budget. The software provides advanced security features and uses cutting-edge technology to protect your device from all types of malicious threats. Avira’s real-time scanning and monitoring capabilities ensure that your device stays protected at all times, while its intuitive interface makes it easy to use even for those with limited technical knowledge. Furthermore, Avira provides frequent updates to keep up with the latest malware trends and offers affordable pricing plans to suit different budgets.

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Avast

Why We Picked It

Avast provides an excellent choice for individuals working remotely, offering a range of features including firewall, email security, ransomware protection, real-time protection, as well as defense against malware, phishing, ransomware, and other cyber threats. It’s important to highlight that Avast and AVG utilize the same antivirus engine, resulting in identical performance in independent tests and receiving high ratings. In our testing, Avast demonstrated minimal impact on system performance and conducted Smart Scans at a remarkable speed.

If you are concerned about privacy, there are other reasons to be worried. A joint investigation by PCMag and Vice Motherboard in 2020 revealed that Avast and AVG were gathering user data through browser extensions and the free version of their antivirus software. While this is typical for antivirus providers with browser protections, Avast and AVG were found to be profiting from user data through their subsidiary, Jumpshot. Following the investigation, Avast discontinued Jumpshot and has not shown any indication of resuming data monetization. However, considering how much sensitive data an antivirus can gather from users, the recent nature of the incident makes it noteworthy for those who value their privacy.

Your business can receive assistance for any software issues around the clock with 24/7 IT support, typically within an hour. While a free plan is available, it is not intended for commercial use. For protection of over ten devices, the Essential Business Security plan is recommended, especially for expanding businesses. This plan enables remote management of devices and subscriptions.

Who should use it

Avast is an excellent choice for businesses that require protection against more than ten devices or have remote employees. With Avast, you can enjoy robust security features like firewall protection, anti-phishing, and anti-spam filters. Its endpoint protection solutions offer real-time threat detection and response, ensuring that your business stays safe from cyber threats. Additionally, Avast provides a centralized management console that enables you to manage all your devices from a single interface, making it easy to deploy updates and patches across your network. Overall, Avast offers comprehensive security solutions that are tailored to meet the needs of modern businesses.

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What Is an Antivirus?

An antivirus program is a software designed to safeguard your computer from various types of viruses. It is essential to have an antivirus installed on your device, as viruses can cause significant harm to your computer and even compromise sensitive personal information. There are different types of viruses that can infect your computer, such as adware, spyware, ransomware, and trojans. These malicious programs can slow down your system, corrupt data or even steal your passwords and financial information. Therefore, having reliable antivirus software is crucial for protecting your digital assets. It is also important to keep the antivirus updated regularly to ensure maximum protection against new and emerging threats.

How Does Antivirus Software Work?

Antivirus programs function by conducting scans on your computer to detect and eliminate viruses. Some are even capable of preventing viruses and thwarting real-time attacks. The most effective software employs a diverse range of methods to safeguard your computer.

The methods encompass:

• Artificial Intelligence: Some antivirus programs use artificial intelligence to identify new threats.
• Signature-Based Detection: This is the most common method of detection and involves the antivirus program comparing files on your computer to a database of known viruses.
• Heuristic-Based Detection: This method looks for behavior that is typical of viruses, even if the specific virus is not known.
• Behavior Monitoring: This method looks for changes in how your computer operates that could be caused by a virus.
• Sandboxing: This method runs suspicious programs in an isolated environment where they can’t do any damage.

How To Choose the Best Antivirus Software

Numerous antivirus programs are on the market, making it challenging to select the right one. The key consideration is the specific protection required. Certain programs excel at virus detection, while others specialize in preventing malware attacks. Additional factors to weigh include software update frequency, device compatibility, and customer support.

Reliable Threat Protection

Selecting antivirus software requires you to consider several factors, but the level of protection it offers against threats is the most important one. The best antivirus software uses multiple techniques to safeguard your computer, including signature-based detection, heuristic-based detection, behavior monitoring, sandboxing and artificial intelligence.Ransomware attacks are difficult to detect and require a multi-layered approach to security while viruses are easier to detect but can still cause significant harm if not promptly removed. To determine how trustworthy an antivirus program is, you should look at independent lab results and user reviews in addition to ensuring that it incorporates a multi-layered approach to threat prevention, detection and removal.Furthermore, it is vital to choose an antivirus software that provides regular updates as new threats emerge daily. The program should also have a user-friendly interface and minimal impact on system performance. Lastly, customer support is an essential consideration in case you encounter any issues with the software.

Frequent Updates

Antivirus software is an essential tool for protecting your computer against the latest threats. However, to ensure effective protection, it is crucial to choose a program that is regularly updated to stay ahead of evolving threats. Look for software that updates its database of known viruses frequently, with at least one update per day being the standard. Some programs allow customization of the frequency of updates, while others update automatically. It’s important to check the frequency of updates before purchasing antivirus software to ensure maximum protection. Keep in mind that regular updates are necessary as new threats can emerge at any time and old ones can evolve rapidly, so staying up-to-date is critical for keeping your computer safe from potential harm.

Cost

When it comes to purchasing an antivirus program for your device, users can expect to pay anywhere between INR 2,491 and INR 3,322 for a year’s subscription. The cost may vary depending on the features provided by the program, such as reliable threat protection and good customer support. Businesses usually pay more for priority support than home users.The main cost factors involved in antivirus software are its updating frequency and number of devices covered. Some programs may offer discounts for multiple devices while others might charge extra fees for updates that occur more than once a day. It is important to carefully evaluate the features offered by different antivirus programs before making a purchase to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Additionally, it is essential to keep your antivirus software updated regularly to ensure optimal protection against new threats that may arise.

Compatibility and System Load

Selecting antivirus software requires careful consideration of its compatibility with your operating system and resource utilization. Choose software that is compatible with major operating systems such as Windows, Mac, and Linux. Ensure that the antivirus program you choose has minimal resource consumption to avoid compromising your computer’s performance. Some software can heavily drain memory or CPU power, leading to system slowdowns or crashes.Apart from compatibility and resource utilization, it is also important to consider other features such as real-time protection, malware removal, and regular updates. Some antivirus programs offer additional features like password managers, firewalls, and VPN services. It’s essential to choose a solution that meets your specific needs while remaining within your budget. Additionally, read reviews and compare different options before making a final decision. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you select the right antivirus software for your computer’s security needs.

Customer Support

Customer support is a crucial aspect to consider when it comes to choosing an antivirus software. In case you encounter any issues or require assistance in using the program, having access to reliable customer support can be immensely helpful. The best antivirus programs usually offer 24/7 customer support through phone or live chat, and also have comprehensive online knowledge bases that can guide you through troubleshooting problems.When evaluating different options for antivirus software, it is recommended to opt for programs that come with a money-back guarantee. This ensures that you can test the product and get a refund if you are not satisfied with its performance. Additionally, you should look for software that provides regular updates to protect against new and emerging threats. By investing in an antivirus program that offers reliable customer support and guarantees your satisfaction, you can ensure the safety of your digital devices and data.

What Security Threats Can Antivirus Protect Against?

Top-notch antivirus software can safeguard against various threats such as viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, rootkits, keyloggers, and other malicious entities.

• Viruses: Viruses are the most common type of malware and can cause a lot of damage to your computer if they’re not removed quickly. They can spread from one computer to another and are often used to steal personal information or destroy data.
• Worms: Worms are similar to viruses but can spread without any user interaction. They’re often used to create botnets, which are networks of infected computers that can be used to launch attacks or send spam.
• Trojans: Trojans are malware that masquerade as legitimate programs to trick users into installing them. Once installed, they can allow attackers to take control of your computer and steal your personal information.
• Ransomware: Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts your files and holds them for ransom. The attackers will usually demand a payment to decrypt your files, but there’s no guarantee they will actually do so even if you pay.
• Spyware: Spyware is malware that’s used to collect your personal information, such as your passwords, credit card numbers and browsing history. It can also be used to track your movements and activities.
• Adware: Adware is a type of malware that displays unwanted ads on your computer. It’s often used to generate revenue for its creators but can also be used to collect your personal information.
• Rootkits: Rootkits are a type of malware that’s designed to hide itself from detection. They can be used to gain access to your computer and steal your personal information or launch attacks against other computers.
• Keyloggers: Keyloggers are a type of malware that records everything you type on your keyboard. This can include sensitive information such as passwords and credit card numbers. They can also be used to track your activities and movements.

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What Security Threats Does Antivirus Not Protect Against?

Antivirus software is intended to defend against various threats, but there are certain ones it cannot protect against. Examples of these are:

• Phishing: Phishing is a type of scam where attackers try to trick you into giving them sensitive information, such as your passwords or credit card numbers. They often do this by sending fake emails or messages that look like they’re from a legitimate company or website.
• Social Engineering: Social engineering is an attack where the attacker tries to trick you into doing something, such as clicking on a malicious link or opening an attachment. For example, a person may call and pretend to be someone else while they forward you an email and ask you to click on a link.
• Zero-Day Attacks: Zero-day attacks are attacks that exploit vulnerabilities that have not yet been patched. They can be very difficult to protect against since there’s no way to know about them in advance.
• Malicious Websites: Malicious websites are websites that contain malware or try to trick you into giving them sensitive information. They may also try to install malware on your computer if you visit them.
• Malicious Ads: Malicious ads are ads that contain malware or try to trick you into giving them sensitive information. They’re often used to spread malware or collect your personal information.
• Drive-By Downloads: Drive-by downloads are malicious files that are downloaded and executed without your knowledge or consent. They often exploit vulnerabilities in your web browser or plugins to install malware on your computer.

For Further Protection: Consider a VPN

While antivirus software is crucial for protecting your device from malware and viruses, using a virtual private network (VPN) can provide an additional layer of security. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and creates a secure tunnel between your device and the VPN server, making it impossible for your internet service provider (ISP) or any third-party to monitor your online activities. This is particularly useful when accessing sensitive information like banking details or personal information online. Additionally, a VPN can protect you from malicious attacks and hacking attempts by masking your IP address. To ensure maximum protection, it’s important to choose a reliable VPN service provider that offers strong encryption protocols and has servers in multiple locations worldwide.

Summary

When it comes to safeguarding your business from cyber threats, taking a multi-faceted approach is crucial. However, some aspects are more vulnerable than others, and employees are often the weakest link in the security chain. Prioritizing features that prevent unsafe online environments, particularly through browsers and email, is critical. An antivirus service can also be invaluable in identifying phishing emails and web links.Ransomware attacks can be particularly devastating for businesses, making it essential to have an antivirus service that provides protection against this type of malware. It should also have the ability to recover encrypted data to minimize any damage caused by such attacks. Additionally, implementing strict cybersecurity policies and conducting regular employee training can help mitigate the risk of cyber threats. By prioritizing cybersecurity measures across all aspects of your business operations, you can better protect your valuable assets from potentially debilitating cyberattacks.

Methodology

Forbes Advisor conducted a comprehensive review of 15 leading antivirus software in the market, evaluating them based on eight primary factors and 33 sub-factors. The test scores were used to rate the antiviruses on a scale of one to five. The primary factors included pricing, general features, and customer service and support. To arrive at the final ratings, Forbes Advisor experts also factored in their hands-on experience with these antiviruses. This review provides a useful resource for anyone looking for an effective antivirus solution, as it offers an in-depth analysis of each product’s strengths and weaknesses across multiple criteria.

Pricing and Fees (10%)

Pricing is a critical aspect of any product, and antivirus software is no exception. Most providers offer annual subscription plans for their antivirus products that typically range from $2 to $5 per month. In evaluating the pricing of these products, we considered several factors such as the lowest and highest price tiers, availability of a free version or trial, and transparency in publicly displaying prices on the website.It is important to note that while pricing is a significant factor, it should not be the sole determinant when choosing an antivirus provider.

Factors like the level of protection offered, ease of use, customer support, and additional features should also be taken into account before making a final decision. Additionally, some providers may offer discounts or promotions occasionally that can influence the overall cost-effectiveness of their products.When considering an antivirus provider, it is advisable to research thoroughly and compare different options based on your specific needs and budget. This will help you find a product that offers optimal value for money without compromising on security or performance.

General Features (30%)

When it comes to purchasing an antivirus software, there are a few essential features that it must have to be considered worthwhile. These features include malware protection, which defends against malicious software that can harm your computer and steal personal information. Ransomware protection is also crucial, as it protects you from being locked out of your computer and held for ransom. It is equally important to have identity protection, which helps safeguard sensitive data such as credit card numbers, social security numbers, and other personal information. Lastly, having a password manager or some form of password protection can help you create strong and unique passwords for each account while keeping them safe from cybercriminals. These bare minimum features ensure that your antivirus software provides comprehensive protection against the most common threats online.

Additional Features (20%)

When assessing antivirus software, it is important to consider not only general features but also additional qualities that may be beneficial. For instance, some of the features that aren’t necessary but can make a difference are a firewall, a VPN add-on, email security measures, and a file shredder.A firewall provides an additional layer of protection against online threats by blocking unauthorized access to your network. A VPN add-on can help protect your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address. Email security measures can safeguard you from phishing attacks, spam emails and other malicious content. Lastly, a file shredder permanently deletes sensitive files or folders from your computer so they cannot be recovered.While these extra features vary among different antivirus software, they can significantly enhance the security of your device and keep you safe from online threats.

Customer Reviews (10%)

While the experience of experts with antivirus software is valuable, it may not necessarily reflect the average user’s experience. Therefore, to create a more comprehensive scoring system, we also considered aggregate ratings from various websites like G2, Trustpilot, and Capterra. These websites provide a platform for customers to share their experiences with different products and services, including antivirus software. By incorporating these ratings into our scoring system, we can gain a better understanding of how users perceive different antivirus programs and how they perform in real-world scenarios. This approach helps us provide a more well-rounded and accurate assessment of the effectiveness of different antivirus solutions.

Expert Score (30%)

Our team of experts conducted thorough research and testing on each antivirus software to provide a comprehensive evaluation based on their hands-on experience. In order to arrive at a score, we took into account several factors such as standout features, value for money compared to other antiviruses, popularity, and ease of use. By evaluating these aspects, we aimed to provide unbiased and informative reviews that users can rely on while making a decision about which antivirus software to choose. Our scoring system ensures that users get the best possible recommendations based on our rigorous evaluations.

2024 Antivirus Trends

Antivirus and cybersecurity are essential in today’s digital landscape. Staying updated with emerging trends is crucial for computer and mobile device users. However, businesses have an even greater need for antivirus applications to protect sensitive data and prevent cyber attacks. As we approach 2024, there are key antivirus trends to consider for optimal protection. These include AI and ML integration into antivirus software for advanced threat detection, cloud-based security solutions for real-time protection, and EDR technology for improved visibility into potential threats on endpoints. Keeping up with these trends is vital for safeguarding your business’s digital assets.

Threats From malware of All types Are increasing

An unsecured computer can be targeted every 39 seconds, posing a serious threat to businesses. Ransomware attacks target companies every 14 seconds and are highly profitable for cybercriminals. To protect against increasing cybercrime, prioritize protection measures for individuals and businesses. Stay updated on cybersecurity trends, conduct regular security assessments, provide employee training, and use strong passwords to secure your digital assets in 2024 and beyond.

Advanced features

Antivirus software is becoming more sophisticated and functional as technology advances. The latest versions offer real-time scanning, automatic updates, multi-application protection, auto-clean features, and coverage for all malware types. In the future, antivirus software will include advanced functionalities like machine learning algorithms and behavioral analysis tools to detect complex cyber threats. Privacy protection and data security will also be prioritized. Antivirus providers must stay ahead of evolving threats to provide the best possible protection for users’ devices and data.

Antivirus protection for newer technologies

In today’s digital age, any device that connects to the internet is susceptible to malicious cyberattacks. Even seemingly harmless appliances like smart fridges or cars are at risk from cybercriminals. The potential damage that can be caused by these attacks is alarming, especially when considering the possibility of attackers targeting moving vehicles or a smart fridge storing life-saving medication.As more and more technologies become interconnected through the internet of things (IoT), it is crucial for antivirus software companies to adapt their products and extend protection to vulnerable technologies.

To remain competitive in 2024, it will be essential for companies to incorporate this coverage into their antivirus products and stay ahead of new threats as they emerge.Moreover, as more devices get connected to the internet, the number of potential entry points for cybercriminals increases; hence, making IoT security a top priority for businesses across industries. In this regard, businesses need to take preventative measures such as properly encrypting data and implementing strong access controls. By proactively addressing IoT security concerns, companies can avoid falling prey to devastating attacks that could result in significant financial losses and reputational damage.

Best Antivirus Software for PC in 2024: FAQs

What is the best antivirus software?

Bitdefender: Bitdefender is the ideal program for those seeking top-notch security but lack a team of experts. This high-quality software includes a strong firewall, impressive malware detection, and reliable password protection. It also provides optional extra measures for identity protection at an added expense.

Avira: When it comes to antivirus software, Avira offers the best value for your money. It provides all-around protection against malware like ransomware and phishing, along with a firewall and email security to prevent hacking of your devices.

AVG: AVG is a great option for individuals who work from home often, offering a firewall, email security, and real-time defense against cyber threats like malware, phishing, and ransomware.

Do I need antivirus software?

Certainly, we advise using antivirus software, particularly for business purposes. This is necessary due to the various viruses that can harm your computer or compromise your personal data. Additionally, advanced viruses can also pilfer customer information, potentially exposing you to substantial financial losses.

Is antivirus software enough to protect me?

Today’s top antivirus services provide useful features, but they are not sufficient to ensure complete protection. Human error is a major cause of security breaches for individuals and businesses. Employing common sense in password management and identifying phishing scams are crucial for maintaining information security.

What are some features that antivirus software should have?

When installing antivirus software on your computers, it’s important to look for key features such as real-time scanning, scheduled scans, automatic virus and program updates, easy access to an on-demand scanner, and specific scanners for webmail, POP3 email, instant messaging, compressed files, scripts, and other threats.

Can I have more than one antivirus program on my computer?

While it won’t damage your computer to have multiple antivirus programs installed, there is no advantage to doing so, particularly if you are paying for them. If you want to replace your current antivirus program with a new one, the best approach is to uninstall the old program before installing the new one. After installation, thoroughly run the new program to ensure your computer is free of viruses and make sure it is also up to date.

Can antivirus software stop hackers?

Antivirus software is unable to prevent hackers, but it can identify and eliminate any harmful software installed on your computer by hackers. It can also safeguard your computer from hacking attempts by recognizing and blocking suspicious activities.

How do I install an antivirus program?

The majority of antivirus software can be obtained and set up directly from the web. After downloading the software, just double-click on the file to start the installation. Certain software may need you to input a valid email address for activation, while others might request you to make an account. Adhere to the instructions given by the software to finish the installation.

Is free antivirus software any good?

Numerous antivirus software options are available for free, including Avast, AVG, and Microsoft Defender, which utilize comparable threat lists to prominent paid services, thus ensuring protection against common malware and threats. However, free services typically do not offer features like phishing and ransomware protection, making it advisable to invest in those capabilities.

Do Macs need antivirus?

Certainly, Macs require antivirus protection just as any other computer does. Even though the likelihood of infection is reduced on a Mac compared to a PC, there are still numerous malware threats that can compromise your computer or access your personal data.

Does Windows 10 need antivirus?

Windows 10 provides basic antivirus protection, but it is insufficient to safeguard against human errors that may result in the compromise of personal information. Due to the rising sophistication of phishing scams, it is crucial to utilize a password manager and adhere to good cyber hygiene practices to ensure the safety of your information.

Do I need an antivirus for Windows 11?

It is important to have an antivirus even when using new operating systems like Windows 11, so make sure to choose antivirus software that is compatible with it before making a purchase.

Do phones need antivirus software?

Although the likelihood of getting infected is reduced on a phone compared to a computer, there are numerous malware threats that can still harm your phone or compromise your personal data.