Antivirus software provides essential protection from malware, ransomware and other cyber threats on computers, smartphones and other devices. Some packages also include additional features like VPN access, password managers and identity theft protection for an additional charge.
The top antivirus programs of 2024 combine strong malware detection with an extensive set of other cybersecurity features and are easy to use – plus most provide money-back guarantees!
McAfee
McAfee AntiVirus Plus is an antivirus program that protects against malware, ransomware, phishing attacks and other cyber threats. As one of the top products with outstanding lab scores and multiple security tools (file shredder, Individual Protection Score (IPS), vulnerability scanner), password manager and secure VPN. In addition it has mobile applications providing anti-malware protection as well as Wi-Fi Security as well as Identity Monitoring features to check Dark Web for leaked PII (personally identifiable information).
Contrary to some competitors, Avast does not engage in questionable practices such as spying on users or selling their data to third parties. They have excellent customer support staff and offer a Virus Protection Pledge which promises a refund should it fail to remove malware infections from any personal devices you own. Plus they offer a 30-day free trial period. Plus their premium plan comes packed with essential features that make it worth every penny!
Kaspersky
Kaspersky Antivirus Pro stands out from its competitors with an outstanding malware detection rate and multiple useful features, as well as one of the lowest prices and an easy user experience.
Phishing protection works exceptionally well, blocking most malicious websites. Parental controls help keep children safe online, and its password vault allows secure management of passwords. Webcam protection is also solid with excellent anti-ransomware and cryptojacking protection features.
However, Kaspersky Lab does have certain issues that make some users suspicious of its software; such as links with Russian intelligence in 2017. Regardless, Kaspersky Lab remains a highly-respected cybersecurity provider with transparent practices and an unconditional 30-day money-back guarantee for each plan for 3, 5, 10 or 20 devices and fast VPN access and unlimited data storage – available across Windows, macOS and iOS.
Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes is an intuitive antivirus solution with an effortless setup process and simple user interface, offering Quick scan, Custom scan and Threat scan options for scanning needs. In addition, Malwarebytes comes equipped with an AES encryption 256-bit VPN service that offers high privacy standards without logging user data – giving it all-inclusive protection against threats!
Malwarebytes excelled at our tests for both malware protection and performance without impacting system speed, receiving high or top scores from both AV-Test and AV-Comparatives tests.
Malwarebytes Premium may not offer advanced extras like password managers, family-friendly features or cloud backups; however, its virus scanner is highly effective at clearing away stubborn infections. Once your Premium trial expires, this service can be purchased at an economical price; making an addition worth taking advantage of; for example a subscription to Norton Security costs less while offering real-time protection and more valuable extras than Malwarebytes Premium alone.
Windows Defender
Microsoft’s antivirus program, Windows Defender, keeps a close watchful eye out for malware and other security threats on a PC running Windows 10, laptop or tablet running Windows 10 and monitors this activity in real-time as well as automatically scans and updates itself.
Reputation-based protection features apps and websites against a reputation database to identify malicious or suspicious programs, while exploit detection blocks attempts at infecting your system via networks or the internet. Other tools provided include PC performance reports, simple parental controls, app/browser controls, device security features and account protection.
Security for enterprises may benefit from TotalAV’s free plan and high virus detection rates as well as its strong firewall, although its drawbacks include no dashboard for monitoring all devices within a network, subpar identity theft monitoring services and inadequate extras such as identity theft prevention. An alternative for small and midsized businesses might be available through TotalAV with its superior malware protection rates that also offers VPN and PC optimization for more comprehensive protection.
