• Renewal prices increase
• Limited to 25 devices

AVG

Why We Picked It

AVG has almost 30 years of experience, making it one of the most established brands in the antivirus industry. It provides a wide range of features for users, including a file shredder, built-in firewall, and email security measures, across its free and business-focused plans. With various pricing options and add-ons, users can customize their subscriptions to suit their specific needs. This flexibility makes AVG an excellent choice for solo entrepreneurs and freelancers who require unique features not offered in other antivirus providers’ basic plans.It’s worth noting that Avast and AVG both utilize the same antivirus software engine. In independent reviews by AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives, both performed exceptionally well, achieving top scores and rankings in malware protection. In our own testing, AVG showed satisfactory performance, with a slightly heavier impact on system performance compared to Avira, and longer scan times than other providers. Additionally, its installation process was relatively slow.

If you have concerns about privacy, there are other reasons to be mindful. In 2020, PCMag and Vice Motherboard conducted a joint investigation which revealed that Avast and AVG were gathering user data through browser extensions and the free version of their antivirus software. While this is a standard practice for antivirus providers with browser protections, Avast and AVG were discovered to be profiting from user data through their subsidiary Jumpshot. Following the investigation, Avast shut down Jumpshot and has not shown any indication of returning to data monetization.

However, considering the recent occurrence and the amount of sensitive data an antivirus can collect, it is noteworthy for privacy-conscious individuals. AVG’s Small Business Antivirus and Firewall is priced at INR 2,119 per device per year, offering identity protection, file shredder, and ransomware protection features. Its browser protection is compatible with Firefox, Google Chrome, and Microsoft Edge.

Who should use it

AVG is an excellent choice for freelancers and solo entrepreneurs who need a reliable and multi-functional solution for their devices. With its robust features, AVG offers comprehensive protection against various cyber threats like malware, viruses, and phishing attacks. Additionally, it provides online privacy tools that help to safeguard your sensitive data from prying eyes. AVG’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to use, even for those with no technical expertise. Moreover, it offers multiple pricing plans that cater to different budgets and needs. Overall, AVG is a solid option for anyone looking for powerful antivirus software that can protect their personal and professional digital assets.

Pros & Cons

• Pricing doubles upon renewal
• Uses a lot of resources
• VPN does not come with every plan

Malwarebytes

Why We Picked It

Malwarebytes provides a thorough security solution with real-time protection against malware, spyware, ransomware, and other online threats. It also features a robust malware removal tool capable of eliminating persistent threats that may evade other antivirus software. Independent tests showed that Malwarebytes performed reasonably well, although AV-TEST rated it slightly below the industry average in safeguarding against zero-day malware threats. In our own testing, it demonstrated one of the most user-friendly interfaces with minimal impact on system performance.

This software is an excellent choice for individuals and businesses alike, thanks to its user-friendly interface and diverse range of features. While it may be relatively expensive, the investment is well worth it given the peace of mind that it provides. With this software, you can rest assured that your data is secure and protected against any potential threats. Whether you are a home user or running a business, this software can provide the protection that you need to operate smoothly and confidently in today’s digital landscape.

Who should use it

For business users seeking complete protection against online threats such as malware, spyware, and viruses, it is recommended to invest in a comprehensive cybersecurity solution. This solution should include anti-virus software, firewalls, and other security measures that can detect and prevent cyber attacks. It is important to regularly update these security measures to stay ahead of the latest threats and protect sensitive business data. Additionally, providing regular cybersecurity training to employees can help prevent human error that could lead to security breaches. Ensuring robust cybersecurity measures will not only safeguard your business from potential attacks but also provide peace of mind for you and your customers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Must fill out a lead form and wait for sales to contact you for a free trial

Avast

Why We Picked It

Avast provides a great solution for individuals who work remotely, offering a range of features including firewall, email security, ransomware protection, real-time protection, and defense against malware, phishing, ransomware, and other cyber threats. It’s important to note that Avast and AVG utilize the same engine for their antivirus software, resulting in similar performance in independent testing. In our own testing, we observed that Avast had minimal impact on system performance and a fast Smart Scan. However, concerns about privacy arose following a 2020 investigation by PCMag and Vice Motherboard, revealing that Avast and AVG were collecting user data through browser extensions and the free version of their antivirus software, and then monetizing this data through Avast subsidiary Jumpshot.

Following the investigation, Avast has discontinued Jumpshot and has not indicated a return to data monetization. Given the recent nature of the event and the potential sensitivity of user data collected by antivirus software, this is worth noting for those who value privacy.With round-the-clock IT support, your company can receive assistance with software issues in under an hour. While a free plan is available, it is not intended for commercial use. For protection across more than ten devices, the Essential Business Security plan is recommended, particularly 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 for more than ten devices, especially those with remote employees. Avast’s cloud-based security solutions ensure that all devices are protected, regardless of their location. With Avast, businesses can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their data and devices are safeguarded from potential threats such as malware, viruses, and phishing attacks. Additionally, Avast offers flexible licensing options that can accommodate businesses of various sizes and needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Pros

• Expensive pricing
• It can be complicated to use for people with less tech knowledge.

What Is an Antivirus?

An antivirus program is a software that shields your computer from viruses. It is essential to have an antivirus installed on your device as there are various types of viruses that can harm your system, delete important files, and even steal your personal data. These viruses can come from different sources like emails, downloads, or infected websites. A good antivirus solution not only protects your computer but also provides real-time protection against new types of threats. Additionally, it is recommended to regularly update the antivirus software to ensure maximum protection against potential security breaches.

How Does Antivirus Software Work?

Antivirus programs function by conducting scans on your computer to detect and eliminate viruses. Some are capable of preventing viruses and thwarting real-time attacks. The most effective software employs a comprehensive security approach, employing multiple methods to safeguard your computer.

These methods include:

• 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

Choosing the right antivirus program can be a daunting task, given the plethora of options available. The most crucial factor to consider is the type of protection you require. Some programs are more adept at identifying viruses, while others specialize in preventing malware attacks. It is also important to consider how frequently the software updates and whether it supports all your devices. Additionally, customer support should be taken into account when selecting an antivirus program. Reliable customer support can provide assistance in case of any issues or concerns that may arise during usage.

Reliable Threat Protection

When selecting antivirus software, the most crucial factor to consider is the level of protection it offers against various threats. The top antivirus software employs a range of techniques to safeguard your computer, including signature-based detection, heuristic-based detection, behavior monitoring, sandboxing, and artificial intelligence.Certain threats, like ransomware, are challenging to identify and necessitate a multi-layered security approach. Others, such as viruses, are simpler to detect but can still cause significant harm if not promptly removed. To gauge the reliability of antivirus software, it’s important to review independent lab results and user feedback, in addition to ensuring that it employs a multi-layered approach to preventing, detecting, and removing threats.

Frequent Updates

It is crucial to have antivirus software that is regularly updated in order to effectively protect your computer from the ever-evolving landscape of new and evolving threats. Look for a program that updates its virus definitions at least daily, and preferably more often. Ensure that the frequency of updates meets your needs, and inquire about this before making a purchase if it is not specified.

Cost

Antivirus software subscriptions typically range from INR 2,491 to INR 3,322 per year, offering reliable threat protection, regular updates, and quality customer support. Pricing varies based on the program’s features, with businesses often paying more for priority support compared to individual users. The main cost considerations include update frequency and device coverage, with some programs providing discounts for multiple devices and additional charges for frequent updates.

Compatibility and System Load

When choosing antivirus software, consider its compatibility with your operating system and resource consumption. The best software works well on Windows, Mac, and Linux. Also, ensure it uses minimal resources to avoid slowing down your computer. Other factors to consider include level of protection, ease of use, and customer support. Do thorough research and read reviews before selecting antivirus software that suits your needs.

Customer Support

​​Customer support is a critical aspect of any software, especially antivirus programs. It provides assistance in case of technical issues or difficulties using the software. The best antivirus programs offer 24/7 customer support through phone or live chat. They also have comprehensive online knowledge bases that can guide you in troubleshooting any problems.In addition to customer support, it’s important to consider programs that offer a money-back guarantee. This ensures that you are satisfied with the product and can receive a refund if necessary. When selecting an antivirus program, it’s important to assess the level of customer support offered, as this can greatly impact your experience using the software.

What Security Threats Can Antivirus Protect Against?

The best antivirus software can protect against a wide range of threats, including viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, rootkits, keyloggers and more.

• 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.

What Security Threats Does Antivirus Not Protect Against?

Although antivirus software is created to defend against various threats, there are certain ones it cannot safeguard against. These include:

• 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 2024 Consider a VPN

While antivirus software is important, we also suggest using a virtual private network (VPN) for added online security. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, which makes it impossible for your internet service provider (ISP) to monitor or access your data. It does so by establishing a secure, encrypted tunnel between your device and the VPN server. This can safeguard you against cyber threats like hacking and snooping. For those who value their privacy and want to prevent unauthorized access to their data, using a VPN is highly recommended. You can check out our list of the best VPNs available in the market today to choose one that fits your needs.

Summary

To protect your business from cyber threats and viruses, it’s crucial to take a multifaceted approach. Focus on preventing unsafe internet environments for employees through secure browsers and email features. An antivirus service can help identify phishing emails and web links, while also providing protection against ransomware attacks. Implement strong password policies, regularly update software, limit access to sensitive information, and train employees on cybersecurity best practices. Safeguard your business with a proactive cybersecurity strategy to mitigate risk and protect sensitive data.

Methodology

Forbes Advisor conducted a thorough review of the top 15 antivirus software available in the market. They evaluated each software based on eight primary factors and 33 sub-factors and rated them on a scale of one to five. The primary factors that were tested included customer service, support, pricing, and general features. Additionally, the experts at Forbes Advisor also factored in their hands-on experience with these antiviruses when calculating the final scores. This comprehensive evaluation provides users with valuable insights into choosing the best antivirus software that meets their needs and budget.

Pricing and Fees (10%)

When assessing an antivirus product, it’s crucial to consider pricing. Most antivirus providers have subscription plans that range from $2 to $5 per month for an annual subscription. When evaluating this aspect, it’s important to consider the availability of a free version or trial, as well as the transparency of pricing on a provider’s website, in addition to the lowest and highest price tiers. Selecting the right antivirus software involves more than just considering pricing. It’s important to also assess factors such as the level of protection, user-friendliness, and customer support. Furthermore, some providers may have discounts or promotions that can impact pricing, so it’s important to be on the lookout for these while conducting research. Ultimately, while pricing is an important consideration, it should not be the sole factor. By assessing various aspects of each provider’s offering, you can ensure that you choose a solution that meets your requirements and provides sufficient protection against online threats.

General Features (30%)

When looking to buy an antivirus program, there are key features to consider that can significantly impact the protection of your computer and personal information. These include malware protection to guard against various types of malicious software, ransomware protection to prevent unauthorized control and demands for payment, identity protection to safeguard personal data, and password management for securing login credentials. Ensuring that these essential features are present in the antivirus program you select will provide reassurance that you’ve prioritized the security of your device and data.

Additional Features (20%)

Aside from the essential features required for an antivirus, there are various other functionalities that can improve its performance and offer extra advantages. These encompass a firewall, which adds an extra layer of defense against cyberattacks and stops unauthorized access to your network. Additionally, a VPN add-on can protect your online privacy by encrypting your internet connection and concealing your IP address. Email security measures are also vital for detecting and blocking spam emails containing malicious attachments or links. Lastly, a file shredder is a valuable tool for permanently erasing sensitive files from your computer, ensuring they cannot be recovered. Although these features are not obligatory for an antivirus program, having them can greatly enhance your overall cybersecurity and provide peace of mind when dealing with sensitive information or browsing the web.

Customer Reviews (10%)

While our experts’ experience with antivirus software is valuable, it may not reflect the average user experience. To provide a more comprehensive evaluation, we also consider aggregate ratings from websites such as G2, Trustpilot, and Capterra as part of our scoring process. These websites provide a platform for users to rate and review products based on their personal experiences. This information can offer insights into how the software performs in real-world situations and how it is perceived by users. By incorporating both expert opinions and user feedback, we strive to provide a well-rounded assessment of antivirus software that can help consumers make informed decisions.

Expert Score (30%)

In order to offer users accurate and dependable information, our team of experts conducted extensive research and testing on a variety of antivirus software. They utilized their firsthand experience with the software to assess key features, overall value, popularity, and ease of use. By evaluating these factors, our experts aimed to ensure a safe and user-friendly experience for the users. Each antivirus was thoroughly tested for comprehensive malware and virus protection, as well as for its ease of installation, configuration, and use. The experts also considered the software’s market popularity as an indicator of its reliability and effectiveness. Through this comprehensive evaluation process, we aim to provide users with a detailed comparison of their antivirus options and assist them in selecting the most suitable one for their needs.

2024 Antivirus Trends

In today’s digital world, it’s crucial to stay informed about antivirus and cybersecurity trends. Here are key trends for 2024: 1. AI will enhance threat detection and response. 2. Cloud-based solutions offer flexibility and scalability. 3. IoT presents challenges for securing connected devices and networks. 4. Machine learning enables automated threat detection and response. By staying informed, individuals and businesses can protect their digital assets with robust antivirus solutions across all devices and networks.

Threats From malware of All types Are increasing

According to a study conducted by the University of Maryland, it was found that an unsecured computer can be targeted as frequently as every 39 seconds. Even businesses with strong antivirus protection may face an even greater threat, with companies being targeted by a ransomware attack every 14 seconds on average. Ransomware presents a significant opportunity for cybercriminals to profit from vulnerable businesses. The overall increase in cybercrime is concerning for both companies and individuals. As we observe a rise in the frequency and severity of cyberattacks, the importance of protecting oneself and one’s business in 2024 will only grow.

Advanced features

Overall, technology is becoming increasingly practical and advanced, and antivirus software is no different. The majority of advanced software currently offers real-time scanning, automatic updates, protection across various applications, auto-clean capabilities, and coverage for all forms of malware. By 2024, we anticipate that more software companies will incorporate a comprehensive range of features with enhanced functionalities to stay competitive in the expanding market.

Antivirus protection for newer technologies

The increasing interconnectivity of devices through the internet has made it clear that anything connected to the internet is vulnerable to cyberattacks. Even smart devices, appliances, and cars are exposed to cybercriminals who can cause significant damage. Attackers can target moving cars or smart refrigerators filled with life-saving medication. Antivirus software companies need to adapt their products and extend protection to these technologies to remain competitive and address emerging threats. Manufacturers must prioritize cybersecurity in their designs, and users should update software regularly and avoid risky online behavior. By taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity, we can minimize risks and ensure safer technology use.

Best antivirus software in 2024: FAQs