Keep Your Data Protected With the Best Antivirus Software

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How to Find Quality Antivirus Software: A Buyer’s Guide

The first Windows-based PC virus was known as the Brain. Its introduction motivated IBM technicians to create the first antivirus for everyday computer users, and since then viruses have become much more advanced and sophisticated. For these reasons, you must keep your computer and phones well protected using antivirus software. Antivirus software detects any type of harmful programs on your computer or phone. Following the detection, the program neutralizes the virus and protects your computer against threats, such as ransomware, spyware, and trojans. With so many options on the market, finding good antivirus protection isn’t easy. To help you out, we’ve curated a list of the finest antivirus software in 2023!

For the first spot on our list, we have this antivirus software by Norton, which can be used with up to ten devices. This option also lasts for one whole year, and since it comes with auto-renewal it’s pretty convenient. Furthermore, it works with IOS, Android, PCs and Macs—so you don’t have to worry about compatibility.

This software for computer virus removal is optimized to minimize its effect on your device’s performance. Also featuring VPN and 75 GB cloud backup, you can browse anonymously and rest assured that your data won’t be leaked.

Pros

• Monitors the dark web for information leaks
• Comes with a backup of 75 GB
• Features a secure VPN

Cons

• It is a bit pricey

Coming to you from McAfee, aside from antivirus software you also get to choose between a download code and key card variation. Adding to its versatility, you also get to pick between plans of three devices, five devices, ten devices and unlimited devices to best suit your data protection needs. Also featuring parental control it comes with a secure VPN to keep your browsing data away from prying eyes.

This antivirus software also boasts a password manager to store and generate secure passwords for your different accounts across the internet. Furthermore, this program will alert you if the website you are visiting is a potential threat or not.

Pros

• Comes with parental control
• Features a secure VPN
• Easy to auto-fill

Cons

• Does not support Windows Enterprise

Coming to you from Webroot, you can choose to personalize your antivirus software with three devices, five devices or a ten device plan. Allowing you to pick between one-year and two-year protection options, you can also opt for the subscription option. Adding to its functionality, it’s also compatible with Android, IOS, Mac, Chromebook and PC! 

This also means it will install much more quickly on your device. Saving you tons of time and computer resources, it also comes with a password manager to help store your passwords and make logging in much easier.

Pros

• Very quick and easy to install
• Compatible with most devices
• Minimal impact on device performance
• Comes with a password manager for convenience

Cons

• VPN features are absent

Bitdefender brings you an antivirus software that features a two-year subscription. You can sync this product with up to five devices, and since it’s designed for optimized speed you can rest assured your computer or phone won’t slow down. Also featuring a cross-platform protection to provide security across all your devices, this antivirus software boasts a dedicated browser for protecting your online bank transactions from prying eyes. 

Adding to its convenience, you get 200MB of secure Bitdefender VPN and are allowed to opt for auto-renewal of your subscription for extra convenience. 

Another great thing about this pick is its eco-friendly packaging!

Pros

• Features 200MB of VPN 
• Comes in eco-friendly packaging
• Comes with a secure browser for banking

Cons

• Could do with digital key delivery

This antivirus software by AVG allows you to choose from one, five and ten device plans. Allowing you to achieve long-term data protection for your devices, it also comes with a secure VPN for browsing the internet without worrying about your browsing data being seen. 

You also get a Cleaner with this antivirus program for clearing away unnecessary files and resource-hogging programs from your device. Aside from boasting a powerful encryption technology, it also boasts tracker blockers so websites cannot track your activities easily. 

The interface of this antivirus software is also very well designed, making it much easier to use and a great option for beginners.

Pros

• Boasts a secure VPN
• Compatible with Mac and PC 
• Comes with a cleaner software 
• Uses powerful encryption technology

Cons

• Could do with a one-year plan option

Is an antivirus complete protection against all threats to my device?

An antivirus can protect your device against most threats, but you still need to be careful. You should avoid visiting shady sites or downloading files from untrusted sources. Also, take a good look at privacy policies before trusting websites. 

How much disk space does an antivirus take up?

The disk space an antivirus takes up varies from product to product. You can usually find the required disk space in the product description of an antivirus. Generally speaking, the software won’t take too much of your device’s space—and the number will usually be below half a GB.

How long will antivirus software last?

Since most antivirus software comes with a subscription, it’s important for you to keep up to date with your purchases to ensure you’re always protected. Thankfully, most services will also send such reminders by email.

Who benefits most from antivirus software?

Students of all ages, as well as those who actively browse streaming services, benefit the most from antivirus software. This is because antivirus software can also block suspicious activity and notify you of any other related issues.

What is a password manager?

The finest virus protection software, like the Norton Antivirus Software from our list, come with password managers. These virtual keychains store your passwords, autofill them and create new secure ones for your online accounts. The application will also let you know when a password in the existing database is weak or at risk of hacks, making them great for those who often stream videos and movies online.