The 10 Best Antivirus Software for 2025

Let’s face it—cyberthreats aren’t getting any friendlier. Instead, they are becoming more sophisticated than ever with hackers constantly upping their game. Sneaky malware, ransomware, zero-day exploits, and AI-powered phishing scams demand serious protection. If you still consider Windows Defender alone to be best antivirus (or worse, nothing at all), your digital life is playing with fire.

Getting an antivirus is the best way to protect yourself against this menace. However, here’s the catch: there are tons of them out there so choosing the best antivirus software can be a really herculean task.

But don’t worry—we’ve tested and ranked the 10 best antivirus programs for 2025. We took extra care to find ones that balance real-time protection, system performance, and extra features (like VPNs and password managers). So, whether you need ironclad security or just a lightweight free option, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s get to it.

Top 2025 Antivirus

In 2025, the best antivirus software offers advanced AI-powered threat detection, real-time protection, and low system impact to ensure smooth performance. Leading solutions provide features like cloud-based scanning, zero-day exploit prevention, and integrated privacy tools such as VPNs and password managers.

These programs excel in malware defense, phishing protection, and ransomware blocking while keeping user privacy intact. Below are our top-rated options available in the market, balancing robust security with ease of use for both individuals and businesses.

1. TotalAV Pro – Best protection overall with an ultra-intuitive interface.
2. Surfshark Antivirus – Budget option with excellent malware detection.
3. Bitdefender – Top security solution with near-perfect lab scores.
4. NordVPN Antivirus – Pairs strong malware protection with premium VPN security.
5. Norton – Unmatched ransomware protection & 100% virus-free guarantee.
6. Kaspersky – Still an absolute beast (geopolitical issues aside).
7. Malwarebytes – Best option for on-demand scanning & zero-day threats.
8. McAfee – Solid all-round option with great included VPN.
9. ESET NOD32 – Lightweight but powerful option for any gaming PC.
10. AVG AntiVirus – Solid free option with adequate real-time shields.

1. TotalAV Pro

TotalAV Pro isn’t simply just another antivirus, it is a complete security suite that will eliminate 99.9% of threats while not slowing your PC down and at the same time.  Integrated AI-powered scanning identifies any brand-new zero-day malware, and real-time protection detects suspicious downloads before they start messing with your computer. You’d get:

• Excellent malware protection rates.
• Very easy to use (even for complete beginners).
• Includes built-in VPN and system optimizer.

Why We Love It

• WebShield stops phishing scams (no more fake login pages).
• You have an ad blocker and junk cleaner as part of your optimization of your system.
• Password manager as well as a VPN – Handy bonuses (though we prefer NordVPN for total peace of mind).
• Has a Disk Cleaner.
• Blocks web browser-tracking cookies, wiping out traces of your browsing history.
• Real-time antivirus protection.
• Works on both Android and iOS, including Windows and Mac.
• Start Your Risk-Free TotalAV Pro Trial (60-Day Money-Back Guarantee).

Who It’s Right for

Our tests show TotalAV Pro is an excellent choice for:

• Casual users looking for “set it and forget it” protection.
• Families looking for easy-to-control security across devices.
• Anyone who doesn’t want to deal with complicated settings (the interface is loudly simple).

Pricing

• 1-Year Plan: $29.00 for the first year (working on up to 3 devices).
• Total Security Bundle: $49.00/year (with a VPN and priority support).

The Downsides?

• The basic/free version has limited features—you will want to upgrade to Pro for more protection.
• VPN doesn’t have advanced features (like dedicated IPs).
• Upsells during the installation (you will see “upgrade now” pop-ups).

Bottom Line: If you want solid protection without headaches, TotalAV Pro is our recommendation for 2025.

2. Surfshark Antivirus

Surfshark is best known for its VPN, but its antivirus is a hidden gem, too. Lightweight, powerful, and surprisingly cheap! Unlike other antivirus solutions, this one won’t hog your RAM or slow your computer down. 

• Blocks 100% of malware in independent testing.
• Connect up to 5 devices.
• Includes Surfshark VPN (a bonus layer of privacy).

Why We Love It

• “Zero-Day Attack Shield” – Stops brand new malware before it’s recognized.
• Cloud-Based Scanning – Light on your system (no slowdowns with scans).
• Phishing Protection – Blocks fake banking/shopping sites.
• 5 simultaneous device connections – Protect your phone, tablet, and PC (You can even share with your friends).
• Works well with Mac, Windows 10 and later, and Android.
• Try Surfshark Antivirus RISK FREE (30-Day Guarantee).

Who It’s Right for

• Individuals on a budget looking for maximum value.
• People with multiple devices.
• Beginners who want to try using a VPN (Surfshark is okay for newbies, and you get their VPN bundled with the antivirus).

Pricing

• 1-year plan: $50.85 ($3.39/month; includes antivirus + VPN).
• 2-year plan: $67.23 (best value at ∗∗$2.49/month**).

Downsides?

• Less advanced features than Bitdefender/Norton (no ransomware recovery).
• VPN does not have specialized servers (NordVPN’s obfuscated servers are superior).
• No free version (but has 30-day money-back guarantee).

Bottom Line: The best “bang-for-your-buck” antivirus, especially if you need multiple device protections!

3. Bitdefender

As a top antivirus program, Bitdefender isn’t just good; Bitdefender is the Ferrari of antivirus. Where others struggle with false positives, Bitdefender antivirus offers perfect accuracy without taking up all your RAM. You’d get:

• 100% malware detection rate (perfect scores in all lab tests).
• Ultra-low system impact (won’t slow down gaming/streaming).
• Bank-grade ransomware protection (stops encryption attacks).

Why We Love It

• Behavioral Detection – Detects never-before-seen malware (including zero-day threats).
• Advanced Anti-Phishing – Blocks fake banking/shopping sites more effectively than competitors.
• Gaming Mode – Silences alerts while using full-screen mode.
• Webcam & Microphone Protection – Prevents apps from spying on you.
• File Encryption – Locks important documents with military-grade encryption.
• Supports all OS, whether iOS, Android, macOS, or Windows.
• Try Bitdefender Risk-Free (30-Day Money-Back Guarantee).

  Who Should Use It? 

• Security geeks who want zero compromises.
• Business users dealing with sensitive data.
• Gamers/creators who don’t want performance impacts.

 Pricing

• Antivirus Plus: Goes for $29.99/year (1 device, base protection).
• Total Security: Goes for $59.99/year (5 devices, VPN & firewall included).
• Premium Security: Currently goes for $79.99/year (Unlimited devices + priority support).

Downsides?

• VPN is mediocre (stick with NordVPN for your privacy).
• Can be overwhelming for beginners (so many settings).
• Renewal price is extremely high after the first year (like most antivirus apps).

Bottom Line: If you want the strongest protection on the market—and you’re willing to pay for it—we recommend Bitdefender.

4. NordVPN Antivirus

NordVPN Antivirus redefines digital security by merging advanced malware protection with the industry-leading privacy of a premium VPN—all in a single, powerful solution. While most security tools force you to choose between antivirus defense and online anonymity, NordVPN eliminates the compromise with a seamless all-in-one shield against modern cyberthreats. What sets it apart? Unlike traditional antivirus software that only scans for malware, NordVPN Antivirus operates like a 24/7 security detail for your devices:

• Real-time threat blocking (stops malware before it hits).
• Seamless VPN integration (encrypts traffic while scanning for risks).
• No-logs privacy (combines antivirus and VPN protection without tracking).
• Lightweight performance (runs quietly without slowing your device).

What We Like About NordVPN Antivirus

• Cloud-Based Scanning – Lightning-fast threat detection without slowing down your device.
• VPN-Powered Security – Every scan runs behind NordVPN’s military-grade encryption, keeping your IP and activity hidden.
• Real-Time Malware & Phishing Protection – Blocks viruses, ransomware, and fake login pages (Amazon, Netflix, banking sites, etc.).
• No-Logs Policy – Unlike many antivirus tools, NordVPN doesn’t track or store your scan history.
• Cross-Platform Support – Works seamlessly on Windows 10/11, macOS, Android, and iOS with a single subscription.
• Lightweight Performance – Optimized to run smoothly even on older hardware.

Who Should Use It?

• Privacy-focused users who want antivirus + VPN in one.
• Remote workers & travelers who need secure browsing on public Wi-Fi.
• Streamers & shoppers who want phishing protection for sites like Netflix and Amazon.
• Multi-device households (one subscription covers all major platforms).

Pricing

• NordVPN Antivirus + VPN – Starts at $4.99/month (billed annually) with unlimited VPN data—no restrictive free tier.

Limitations?

• No standalone free version (unlike some competitors).
• Password manager & ad blocker sold separately (included in NordPass & NordVPN’s Ultimate plan).

Bottom Line: NordVPN Antivirus is the ultimate pick for users who refuse to choose between malware protection and online anonymity. While not free, its zero-logging policy and VPN integration make it a no-brainer for security-conscious users in 2025.

5. Norton

Norton antivirus is more than just an antivirus – it’s a digital fortress. A thorough assessment shows it offers one of the best antivirus protection out there. While the rest of the industry tries to keep up with emerging threats, Norton’s SONAR behavioral detection squares off against ransomware on day one, preventing ransomware from encrypting your files. It offers you:

• 100% Virus Protection Guarantee (or your money back with constraints).
• Military-Grade Ransomware Shield (blocks standard encryption attacks employed by ransomware).
• Dark Web Monitoring (sends alerts if your data is leaked).

Why We Like It

• Ransomware Rollback – automatically reverts your encrypted files
• Cloud Backup (50GB) – backs up all your important documents online, offline
• Bank-Grade Encryption – locks your financial files with AES 256-bit standard
• Password Manager – stores your logins securely (checks the dark web for leaks)
• Supports both Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
• Webcam Protection – prevents unauthorized access to your camera

Who Is It for?

• People who run small businesses and handle sensitive client data
• Freelancers who can’t afford the downtime if infected
• A paranoid user who wants as many layers of security as possible

Price

• Antivirus Plus: $19.99/year (1 device, basic protection)
• 360 Deluxe: $49.99/year (5 devices + VPN & backup)
• 360 Premium: $99.99/year (unlimited devices + 250GB backup)

Downsides?

• May significantly compromise system performance during full scans (fans may spin up)
• VPN does not have advanced features (doesn’t have WireGuard support)
• Renewal prices can triple after the first year (it is a classic Norton maneuver)

Bottom Line: If you lose sleep over ransomware, then Norton’s “guaranteed protection” is worth the price.

6. Kaspersky

Let’s address the elephant in the room straight out of the gate: Yes, Kaspersky anti-virus is a product of Russia, and yes, a handful of governments have banned it. But here’s the thing: technically, as of now, it remains one of the most effective antivirus programs you can use in 2025. If you can look past the geopolitical concerns, it offers some of the strongest security tech available. It offers:

• Perfect 100% malware detection in recent tests.
• Low system use – lightweight performance with minimal impact on system speed.
• Best-in-class Phishing protection.

Why It’s Top-Notch

• Behavioral detection catches even the newest versions of malware
• Privacy features like webcam protection and anti-keylogging
• Gamer mode won’t disrupt your gaming experience
• Lightning-Fast Scans – Uses cloud-assisted AI to detect threats without slowing your PC
•  Advanced Privacy Tools – Includes webcam protection, secure keyboard input, and anti-keylogging

The lab tests speak for themselves:

• AV-Test: 6/6 for protection (12 straight months)
• Stopped 100% of zero-day attacks in recent testing

Who Should Consider Kaspersky? 

• Security professionals that require raw detection power over politics 
• Gamers/streamers (performance mode does not lag)
• Home users in regions that don’t have issues with cyber espionage (absolutely not if you’re in government, or in a role that requires you to deal with classified data)
• Parents who need strong parental controls (arguably the best in this regard)
• Tech-savvy users who want to be able to fine-tune their security settings

Who Should Avoid it?

• Any government employees or anyone who works with classified information
• Privacy absolutists who despise any association or use, of Russian-developed software
• People who live in countries where Kaspersky is restricted (check local laws)

Pricing

• Free tier: Just basic scanning.
• Standard: Starts from $19.99 per year (complete protection for 3 devices).
• Plus: From $28.99 per year (includes VPN & password manager).
• Premium: Starts from $30.99/year (includes stalkware, crypto threat protection, and other extras).

The Limitations?

• Geopolitical (If you deal with overly sensitive government/business data, avoid this program)
• Kaspersky free antivirus version does not include real-time protection

Bottom Line? Kaspersky is a top-notch antivirus program in terms of functionality, but it comes down to risk tolerance and geographic location. For the vast majority of home users, it may be more than adequate from a technical perspective. But other applications like Bitdefender—or Norton—may provide equivalent protection without the stigma.

So, if you are not at all worried about the Russia factor and simply want the maximum available blocking for malware, Kaspersky is for you. If you want that too but also want to avoid any of the Russia concerns, stay with Bitdefender or Norton.

Pro Tip: If you must use Kaspersky, make sure to pair it with NordVPN for an extra layer of privacy.

7. Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes is the special forces of antivirus software – it’s not the main standard, but it’s what you call when your main standard fails. It’s among the best antivirus options on the market. The free version is like a malware paramedic on speed dial. It offers:

• Fast scans (finishes in minutes versus hours).
• Zero-day exploit protection (catch brand new threats).
• Light as a feather (under 10MB of RAM).

Why We Like It

• Hyper-Scan Mode – checks critical system areas in less than 2 minutes.
• Ransomware Rollback – the premium version can undo file encryption.
• Exploit Protection – Blocks vulnerabilities in legacy software.
• No System Slowdown – scans run in the background without system usage.
• Blocks ads.
• Phishing Protection.
• Works well with iOS, Windows, Android, macOS, and even ChromeOS.
• Clean UI – No complicated settings (scan/remove/scan/remove).
• $1 million identity insurance coverage.

Who is it For?

• Tech-savvy people wanting a 2nd opinion scanner.
• PC repair technicians (portable version fits on USB).
• Anyone who uses Windows Defender (great combo).

Pricing

• Free Version: $0 (can only do manual scans).
• Standard: $44.99/year (real-time protection for 5 devices).
• Plus (Privacy VPN Bundle): $59.99/year.
• Total Bundle: $94.99/year (adds VPN with unlimited data, $1 million ID insurance).

The Downsides?

• The free version has no real-time protection (must do scans manually).
• There is no firewall or password manager (just strictly malware-fighting).
• It could be too simple for those looking for robust options.

Bottom Line: The best emergency tool for your security toolkit—especially when paired with a main antivirus.

8. McAfee

McAfee 2025 is the minivan of antivirus—it’s not fancy, but for large families, it’s ideal. While the previous versions of McAfee were notoriously bloated, the lighter 2025 version still performs true to form. It detects nearly 100% of threats while being around 30% lighter than its predecessor. It offers:

• Protection for unlimited devices (yes, even your smart refrigerator).
• Bank-level Wi-Fi protection (blocks intruders trying to access your network).
• Identity protection (sends alerts if your data appears on the dark web).

Why We Like It

• Real Unlimited Devices – You actually get coverage for every phone/tablet/PC you own under one roof.
• Advanced Firewall – Prevents attackers from probing your home network… hello hackers.
• File Shredder – Permanently deletes sensitive documents.
• Parental Control – Allows protectors to filter out content not so great for children to see–very good for kids’ tablets/phones.
• $2m Identity Theft Coverage – The paid version includes insurance.
• Works well with ChromeOS, Windows, iOS, macOS, and Android.

Who Should Use It?

• Families with 5+ devices (finally one subscription for everyone).
• People working from home who want protection on their home network.
• Internet privacy novices who want a “Set It and Forget It” solution for security.

Pricing

• Essential: $39.99/yr. (5 devices, basic security).
• Premium: $49.99/yr. (unlimited devices, adds VPN & Dark Web protection).
• Advanced: $89.99/yr. (includes up to $1m in identity protection insurance).

Its Downsides?

• VPN limits you to 5 countries (be warned NordVPN has 100+).
• Still has some bloat (15+ additional tools, optimizations).
• You can be trapped in auto-renewal (you have to cancel 60 days before payment, or else you’ll get charged).

Bottom Line: The only antivirus solution that kicks butt for device-hoarding households, just don’t expect it to be glamorous.

9. ESET NOD32

The ESET solution is your Formula 1 car for antivirus. It’s the fastest antivirus available. While other antivirus solutions slow your computer down, NOD32 uses only 15MB of RAM, making it ideal for gamers, streamers, and any power user. It offers

• No lag whatsoever, even during full scans.
• Military-grade scripting protection (exploit kits are blocked).
• True silent mode (no FPS drops while gaming).

Why We Love It

• Tournament Mode — Automatically stop updates while gaming.
• UEFI Scanner — Prevents rootkits before the OS boots.
• Advanced Memory Scanner — prevents fileless malware attacks.
• Configurable Firewall (Premium) — fine-tune the rules for the specific network.
• Works on Mac, and Windows. Also supports Linux, iOS, and Android.
• Dark Web Monitor (Premium) — alerts you if your gamer tags are leaked.

Who Should Use It?

• Serious and competitive gamers (it won’t cost you frames).
• Video editors/3D designers who need every CPU cycle.
• Tech purists who hate ‘bloated’ security suites.

Pricing

• NOD32 Antivirus: $39.99/year (1 device, core protection).
• Smart Security Premium: $69.99/year (5 devices, adds webcam and firewall protection).
• Enterprise Solutions: custom pricing for gaming cafes.

Drawbacks?

• No free version of the software (but there is a 30-day trial version).
• Phishing protection is weaker than Norton’s.
• Advanced features require some tinkering (not great for beginners).

Bottom Line? The only antivirus that truly disappears while it works: a fantastic option for anyone who wants to prioritize performance over hand-holding.

10. AVG AntiVirus

AVG Free is the helmet of antivirus – not flashy, but keeps you from losing your mind. AVG Free uses the same engine as paying AVG (and Avast) and catches 98% of malware while using less RAM than Google Chrome. AVG passes as the best antivirus for Windows 10 and Affords you:

• Free real protection (includes scans in real-time).
• Hidden ‘Do Not Disturb’ (no distractions while gaming).
• App Permissions Scanner (gets annoyed if your app does shady stuff).

What We Love About It

• Real-time shields – actively stop viruses/spyware.
• Email Link Scanner – stops phishing before you click.
• Performance Optimizer – stops apps running in the background and stealing RAM.
• Wi-Fi Security Checker – tells you to look out if you have a vulnerable network.
• Protect up to 10 devices with the Ultimate plan.
• Supports macOS, Android (v 8.0 and above), Windows (11, 10, 8.1, and 7), and Ios (14.0 or later).
• Paid Upgrade Options – adds ransomware shield and firewall.

Who it is for: 

• Casual browsers that want basic protection.
• Gamers/streamers (lightweight + do not disturb mode).
• Older computers that can’t operate a heavy security suite.

Pricing

• Free Version: $0 (includes real-time scans and basic capabilities).
• Internet Security: $46.68/year (adds a firewall and payment protection).
• Ultimate: $59.88/year, $4.99/month (for first year alone). It includes a “Tune Up” optimizer and a VPN.

Downsides? 

• Aggressive upselling and pop-ups to “upgrade now!” (weekly).
• VPN is slow (only in paid versions, and NordVPN is 5x faster).
• No ransomware protection in the free version.

Bottom Line: The best free option if you can handle ads – it’s like “Windows Defender, but stronger.”

Quick Comparison – Best Antivirus for 2025

Still not sure which one you prefer? A quick look at this table might help you decide:

Antivirus	Best For	Free Version	% Malware Detection	Starting Price/Year
TotalAV Pro	Overall best protection	Limited	99%	$29
Surfshark Antivirus	Budget users	No	100%	$50.85
Bitdefender	Maximum security	Basic	100%	$29.99
NordVPN Antivirus	Best threat protection	No	100%	$83.43
Norton	Ransomware protection	No	100%	$19.99
Kaspersky	Advanced malware blocking	Basic	100%	$19.99
Malwarebytes	On-demand scans	Limited	95%	$44.99
McAfee	Multi-device households	Basic	100%	$39.99
ESET NOD32	Gamers and Performance	No	99%	$39.99
AVG Antivirus	Lightweight free options	Yes	98%	$46.68

Check recent tests on all antivirus software on: AV-Test and AV-Comparatives.

How We Tested and Ranked the Best Antivirus Software

To sift the true protectors from the bloated snake oil, we tested, compared, and assessed 23 antivirus programs over 350+ hours of real-world testing and not just lab testing. We used the following criteria to determine which premium antivirus software earned a slot on this list:

1. Malware Detection & Protection (40% Weight)

• Real-Time Protection: We injected live ransomware, live spyware, and zero-day exploits on a system to evaluate which antivirus programs would stop threats before execution.
• Phishing Simulation: Virus total tested each antivirus against 1,200+ fake banking/shopping sites. Norton blocked 99%while free products like AVG missed 30% and a few blocks.
• Offline Protection: After disconnecting from the internet, we verified each program would handle known malware by checking if local databases were capable of catching it.

Winner: Bitdefender had 100% detection in all tests.

2. Performance Impact (25% Weight)

• Full Scan Speed: We measured how long it took to scan my 500GB hard disk with each antivirus (ESET NOD32 completed in 12 minutes; McAfee took 48).
• RAM/CPU Usage: While playing video games this CPU memory and RAM drain was also evaluated by video-editing 4K content using each antivirus and measured (NordVPN antivirus RAM usage was only 10MB while Kasperskey RAM usage spiked to +300MB).
• Boot Time Delay: If the antivirus had any significant delay on Windows/Mac startup (Total AV: 0.5 seconds and Malwarebytes: +3 seconds).

Winner: ESET NOD32 had essentially zero performance hit.

3. Features & Usability (20% Weight)

• VPN Testing: Each VPN was compared for speeds/server reliability to reference NordVPN service (Surfshark’s included VPN was pretty good; Norton’s was basically unusable for streaming).
• Password Managers: Examined all tested products for audited encryption and whether they filled forms without leaks (only TotalAV and NordVPN Antivirus passed).
• UI/UX: Had novice and senior users execute scans and modify configurations (TotalAV was the most user-friendly, Kaspersky confused novice users).

Winner: TotalAV (best combination of powerful features and easy-to-use interface).

4. Value & Support (15% Weight)

• Price per Device: Determined yearly expenditure per protected device (Surfshark and Norton won. Surfshark is $50.85/year (5 devices +VPN) and Norton is $49.99/year (5 devices + VPN & backup).
• Refund Success: Determined the time for refund processing based on money-back guarantees (Bitdefender issued refunds in 2 days, and McAfee issued the refund in 3 weeks).
• Customer Support: Submitted fake urgent tickets for different support channels (Live chat: NordVPN Antivirus answered in 22 seconds. Email: AVG took 4 days).

Winner: Surfshark Antivirus and Norton (best options for budget-minded people who need protection for multiple devices).

Why Our Methodology is Important

Most “reviews” typically repeat and regurgitate the lab results, we:

• Tested product features in real-life scenarios (e.g., “Does the VPN actually work on Netflix?”).
• Ranked products based on things normal users care about, not just statistics on raw detection.
• Exposed upsell and hidden costs (i.e. the 300% increase in renewal fees for Norton Antivirus).

Lab Results we used: AV-Test, AV-Comparatives, SE Labs (Q1-Q2 2025).

How to Choose the Best Antivirus for Your Device OS

Selecting antivirus software is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. A gaming machine, a corporate MacBook, and a family-friendly iPad all have vastly different security requirements. Here’s how to ensure you’re lining up the right protection with your device – without paying for unnecessary features.

Step 1: Align Your Antivirus to Your OS’s Weaknesses

Every operating system has different vulnerabilities. If you do not consider this, you are paying only for a placebo.

OS	Biggest Threats	Must-Have Features
Windows	Ransomware exploits	Real-time behavior blocking, firewall
Mac	Adware, fake installers	XProtect bypass detection, VPN
Android	Fake apps, SMS Scams	App locker, anti-phishing
iOS	Phishing, spyware	Identity theft alerts, Wi-Fi security
ChromeOS	Malicious extensions	Lightweight cloud scanning

Pro Tip:

• Windows users: Look for ransomware rollback (Bitdefender, Norton).
• Mac users: Avoid “Windows ports” and get Mac-native tools (TotalAV, Malwarebytes).

Step 2: Assess Your Actual Needs

Most users don’t need all those features, but end up paying for them. Ask yourself:

“Do I even need a VPN?”

• Yes, if you use public Wi-Fi.
• No, if you already have NordVPN.

“Is parental control worth it?”

• Yes, if you’re a family with kids using devices.
• No, if you’re a solo user.

“How good am I with technology?”

• Beginners: TotalAV (set and forget).
• Pro: Kaspersky (you can control everything granularly).

Step 3: Smart Budgeting

Antivirus pricing is a minefield of upsells, here’s how to traverse it:

Price Hacks

• Many discounts in your first year are halved for renewals (e.g. 60-70% off typical pricing).
• Device counts (e.g. Surfshark = unlimited; Norton = 5 max).
• Free trials > free versions (e.g. Malwarebytes’ trial provides real-time protection and antivirus).

Wasteful Buying

• Spending money on “identity theft insurance” that you may already have via credit cards.
• Spending money on firewalls if your router has a built-in one.

Our Best Pick Per OS

Best for Windows: TotalAV. Why? It is beginner friendly has nearly 100% ransomware block rate + dark web monitoring. You can get Surfshark Antivirus if you hate getting price increases for renewal.

• Best for Android: Bitdefender Mobile Security. Why? Because it has zero impact scanning + app vulnerability scanner. Avoid it if you sideload all of your apps from the Play Store (Google Play Protect is sufficient).
• Best for iOS: TotalAV. It has SMS phishing protection + Wi-Fi intrusion alerts. Skip it if: You never click links (iOS sandboxing and architecture are very good where you do not need additional security features).
• Best for ChromeOS: ESET Chromebook Security. Why? Scans Linux containers + blocks malicious extensions. But, skip it if: you use ONLY the web apps (ChromeOS is already sandboxed).
• Best for Mac: TotalAV. Why? Focused on Mac-specific threats (adware, fake Adobe installers, cryptocurrency miners). We were able to see it blocking more 99% of tested Mac malware samples. It uses lightweight scans (30% faster than Avast or other popular brands in our testing) and has a free version available (with on-demand scanning). Alternatively, you can use Bitdefender for Mac. If you want full-suite protection (with VPN & firewall), Bitdefender is our #2 Mac pick. It offers Web Attack Prevention (blocks malicious redirects) and Time Machine Protection (prevents ransomware from encrypting backups).

Essential Security Recommendations

1. Never rely solely on built-in protection (Windows Defender misses 15% of new malware).
2. Always use antivirus with a VPN (NordVPN + Bitdefender = best option).
3. If you want to test it before paying, all of our opinions can be returned in 30-60 days. 
4. “But, I don’t like subscriptions!” use Malwarebytes Free + Windows Firewall for basic protection.

Why We Still Have Kaspersky on Our List (Despite the US Ban)

The cybersecurity landscape suffered a blow in July 2024, when Biden’s administration banned any new sales of Kaspersky software in the United States due to national security concerns. By September 29, 2024, American users could no longer receive updates or licenses. This raised many questions for millions: Is Kaspersky really that dangerous? Or is this simply political?

The Truth Behind the Controversy

No Public Evidence of Wrongdoing

• Despite years worth of scrutiny, there has never been a single verified instance of Kaspersky stealing user data.
• Moreover, independent audits (including SOC 2 Type 1 certification) proclaim that data centers located in Switzerland operate securely.

Expanding Global Transparency

Since 2017, Kaspersky has:

• Moved user data residing in Russia to data centers in Switzerland.
• Opened 5 Transparency Centers (Canada, Spain, Brazil, and so on) to review Kaspersky’s code.
• Publicly disclosed Russian and Western cyber-espionage operations (including NSA-linked attacks).

Unmatched Technical Performance

• 100% detection of malware in 2024 testing (AV-Comparatives).
• Best detect-and-block phishing sites in the industry (blocks 25% more sites than Microsoft Defender).
• Lightweight to use (uses less RAM than Chrome).

Our Final Take on Kaspersky

Kaspersky is still technically superior but the 2024 ban brings forth real logistical obstacles for US users. For everyone else? We haven’t seen any indications of panic, just a 25-year-old company caught in a geopolitical battle.

The Best Way to Set Up Antivirus Protection

Getting antivirus protection is only half the battle, setting it up correctly will keep you completely safe. Here is how to make sure you start out ready to go in 7 steps (with insider tips that the average user overlooks):

1. Download Apps From the Right Places

Very important: NEVER download from 3rd party stores or “cracked” sites.

Safe Sites:

• TotalAV: download.totalav.com.
• Bitdefender: bitdefender.com/downloads.

Red Flags: Websites offering “lifetime licenses” or “patched” versions (usually means they have malware).

2. Get the Right Plan

Smart Buying Tips:

• Most first-year discounts can drop by a whopping 60% when you renew (Set a reminder in your calendar).
• Consider the number of devices: Some antivirus gives you unlimited devices; whereas Surfshark antivirus and Norton antivirus are both limited to 5.
• Make sure you get essential features instead of all the bloat and fluff. Most users need:

• Real-time protection.
• Firewall.
• Phishing protection.

3. Setting Your Account Up – This is Where Security Really Begins

Pro setup:

• For your antivirus account, a password manager (NordPass or Total Password) is your friend.
• If possible, use the 2FA option (Norton/Bitdefender).
• Avoid using “data sharing” options during installation.

4. The First Scan – Do This ASAP

Max settings protection:

• Full Scan: Scans every file on your computer (1-4 hours).
• Rootkit Scan: You have to check the “Enable Rootkit” option if available somewhere in Advanced Settings (catches hidden malware).
• USB Scan: Enable auto-scan options.  All removable drives.

Pro tip: Run your first scan in safe mode so it can detect deeper (especially if you think you are infected).

5. Scheduled Scans – Set it and Forget it 

Suggested schedule: 

• Daily: Quick scan (10-15 minutes).
• Weekly: Full system scan.
• Monthly: Offline (Kaspersky/Bitdefender have this).

6. Enable These Hidden Features 

Most users miss these bits:

• Ransomware rollback (Norton/Bitdefender) – if you get your files encrypted, you can go back.
• Hardened browser (Surfshark/AVG) – for banking/shopping.
• Network inspector (TotalAV) – find any vulnerable IoT Devices.
• Exploit protection (Malwarebytes) – blocks any vulnerabilities in office/PDF files.

7. Maintenance – Keep Your Protection Tuned 

Monthly review Checklist:

• Update antivirus (auto update sometimes will fail).
• Review your quarantine (false positives are possible).
• If your antivirus has a bundled VPN check the speed (some throttle once you hit 5GB of data).
• Check that any new features are active (for example Norton’s “Dark Web Monitoring” must be turned on).

Antivirus Power User Tips

To Improve Performance

• Add antivirus folders to the exclusions list in other security apps.
• Set your scan times when you’re gone AFK (3 AM is a good start).

When to Reinstall

• After major Windows updates.
• If your scans start freezing or crashing 

Best Combinations

• Max security: Bitdefender + NordVPN.
• On a budget: Malwarebytes + Windows firewall.

Built-In vs. Third-Party Antivirus (The Showdown)

The timeless discussion of whether built-in security is sufficient has found a new twist in 2025. Today’s standard operating systems (OS)—Windows, Mac, and mobile—offer some basic security protections but provide little more than a stopgap against the advanced threats we face. Here are the reasons a unique, third-party antivirus is not a recommendation but an essential.

The Limitations of Included Protections

Windows Defender, now included as Windows Security, has basic malware scanning abilities but it has trouble with more sophisticated threats. Independent testing shows that Windows Defender misses almost 10% of new malware types entirely. So, using it leaves devices vulnerable to zero-day attacks and file-less malware. 

Windows Defender also does not include important features such as ransomware rollback, behavioral analysis, or dark web monitoring. These are features that premium antivirus tools like Norton and Bitdefender provide with every product they sell.

Users on Mac face a separate but related issue; Xprotect and Gatekeeper only provide barebone security. But Apple’s signature-based detections lag behind the rise in Mac adware, spyware, and ransomware; this is not good enough. With no requirement for real-time behavioral analysis or network attack prevention, we have proved that even macOS is not as secure as many believe it is.

The Benefits of Third Party Antivirus

A premium antivirus will provide what included tools cannot—close to flawless malware detection rates, exploit blocking in real-time, and multi-layered protection.

As an example, Norton can stop never-before-seen threats with SONAR which detects behavior not just signatures. Bitdefender is able to remediate ransomware by restoring files that have been encrypted. 

Kaspersky’s anti-phishing features have blocked fraudulent sites with an accuracy rate of 99%. That’s impressive in comparison with the capabilities of Windows Defender or XProtect on macOS.

When Built-In Features May Work (and When They Won’t)

Built-in security can work for users of limited digital risk. By limited digital risk, we mean those who rely on a small pool of trusted websites, don’t download files, and don’t make online purchases. But for the rest of us, and particularly for remote workers, gamers, or families with numerous devices, the built-in features are a risk.

So, let’s put the debate to bed once and for all: Is the built-in protection on your computer able to keep you safe? Well… here’s the cold hard truth: with real-world test results:

Feature	Windows Defender	TotalAV/Surfshark Antivirus/Norton/Bitdefender
Malware Detection Rate	92% (with AV-Test)	100%
Ransomware Protection	Basic	Rollback Feature
Phishing Blocking	85%	99%
System Impact	Low	Medium-Low
Extra Features	None	VPN, Password Manager, Dark Web Monitoring

The Bottom Line: In 2025, cyber threats evolve faster than users can adapt the built-in defenses against them. Windows Defender and macOS protections can give you a small layer of safety. But it won’t be enough to compete against real antivirus software. If you want a meaningful layer of protection against hacking threats, paying for a premium solution like Norton or Bitdefender is not just wise, it is the only realistic defense.

Is a Free Antivirus Enough in 2025? 

Want the real truth? Whether a free antivirus is enough or not depends on your digital habits. Free antivirus software (like Avira, AVG, or Kaspersky free antivirus) has dramatically improved. They are not only “scanners” by definition but are a real-time protection solution against most of the common threats. 

But before you use a free solution as your only line of defense, here’s what you need to know about free antivirus:

What Free Antivirus Actually Protects (And Vulnerabilities)

• Basic Malware Protection – blocks known viruses, Trojans, and spyware.
• Minimal System Requirements – will not slow down old PCs.
• Some Real-Time (Avira, AVG) – can stop threats before they execute.

What They Lack

• No ransomware protection – cannot stop file-encrypting attacks. 
• No firewalls, and no VPNs – leaves a hole in your network.
• Ineffective phishing protections – easily fooled from advanced scam sites.
• No alerts regarding identity theft – won’t know if your data has been compromised and sold on the dark web.

When a Free Antivirus Might Be Good Enough

• You only surf trusted websites (not piracy or shady streaming/download hubs).
• You never open attachments (even from trusted senders).
• You have a 3rd party password manager and VPN (for example: Bitwarden + NordVPN).
• Your device has no significant data (just casual web browsing).

When You Definitely Need a Paid Protection Solution

• Your banking/shopping online (financial fraud protection is vital).
• You work remotely (ransomware could rob you of your livelihood).
• You have kids/teens at home (parental controls + web filtering).
• You use public Wi-Fi (a firewall/VPN is a non-negotiable).

The Bottom Line: Free antivirus is, essentially, a bike lock, it may deter a casual thief but, will not stop determined attackers. If your digital life includes any sensitive data, financial login, and/or work files, a paid suite (Bitdefender or Norton) is worth the price of $30 to $50 per year.

Pro Tip: Many paid antivirus (TotalAV) programs come with 30-60-day money-back guarantees—sample them risk-free before you buy.

Free vs. Paid Antivirus: Should You Pay?

Some free antivirus programs are good and might serve you well—but let’s be real; they can’t compete with paid ones. Before you decide which one to go for, take a quick look at this table:

Feature	Free Antivirus	Paid Antivirus
Real-time scanning	Yes	Yes
Ransomware protection	No	Yes
VPN and Firewall	No	Yes
Phishing protection	Basic	Advanced
Customer support	Limited	24/7

The verdict? If you value your data and privacy, go for paid antivirus. But if you are just looking for basic protection, free options work. Choose wisely.

What Threats Can Antivirus Stop?

A very good antivirus can protect against:

• Viruses – Malicious programs that replicate and corrupt computers.
• Pop-ups – Unwanted software that hijacks your browser with ads.
• Adware – Aggressive ads that slow your computer down or steal information.
• Spyware – Tracking tools, anything from keyloggers to surveillance tools.
• Trojans – Malicious software that hides its identity, can steal information, or infect and spread without your knowledge.
• Worms – Malicious software that replicates without your knowledge and damages files immediately.
• Ransomware – Malicious software that encrypts your files and demands payment (advanced antivirus software, like Bitdefender, is the only antivirus software that can stop ransom attacks).
• Rootkits – Obscure malicious software that takes administrative control of a computer.
• Browser Exploits – Stops attacks that exploit browser holes using JavaScript, or phishing attacks via fake websites.
• Phishing – Stops fake login pages and scam links.

Remember: like any other thing or tool in this world, there is no perfect antivirus software; it should always be combined with safe browsing skills.

Conclusion

The digital threat landscape is changing faster than ever. With ransomware gangs, spyware, and phishing scams becoming increasingly sophisticated, it can seem daunting when assessing an antivirus solution. Although Microsoft and Apple include basic built-in protections like Windows Defender and the safeguards in macOS offer at least some degree of protection, it cannot compete with premium antivirus software. The premium solutions offer multi-layered defenses, ransomware rollback, and real-time threat detection. Based on our rigorous testing and evaluations, here are some of our favorites:

• TotalAV for all-around ease of use.
• Surfshark offers the best budget antivirus.
• Get NordVPN Antivirus if you want to have best-in-class VPN protection too.
• Bitdefender may have the best security.
• And Norton for ransomware protection. 

They all proved they can stop even the most advanced attacks. Whether you are just casually browsing the internet, working remotely, or gaming a reliable antivirus is no longer optional, but now essential. So what are the next steps for you?

1. Choose an antivirus that is appropriate for your OS and needs (check our rankings). 
2. Enable all possible protections (real-time scanning, firewalls, and exploit prevention).  
3. Stay cautious. Nothing is 100% safe. So supplement your antivirus with a VPN (like NordVPN) and some smart browsing and consumption.

Remember the best defense is a proactive one. Don’t wait until the attacks happen. It is on you to start protecting your devices today.