The best cybersecurity software requires a subscription, but if you’re only looking for basic protection, there are some very good free antivirus options. You can enjoy premium features like malware removal, antivirus blockers, and ransomware protection at no cost.
Every free antivirus app on our list is available to download and start using immediately.
The best free antivirus software at a glance
Bitdefender Antivirus Free
Bitdefender’s free antivirus software has the same core features as its paid plans. It protects your Windows PC from malware, blocks zero-day attacks, and even includes ransomware protection. Bitdefender’s free Android app uses the same malware scanning as the paid plan. Setup is minimal with these top-rated solutions.
If you want free real-time protection for your Mac, iPhone, or iPad, you’ll need another solution. We were impressed with the excellent protection provided by Bitdefender’s subscription plans that support any computer or phone.
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Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free
In our review, we praised Malwarebytes’ free virus scan and removal tool. It’s been known to catch malware infections that Microsoft Defender might miss.
The only limitation of the free version is that it doesn’t prevent viruses in advance. While Malwarebytes’ scanner is effective, you need the premium version for prevention. Still, as a secondary layer of defense, the free version can be a lifesaver.
Malwarebytes also has a free extension (Browser Guard) for Chrome, Edge, Safari, and Firefox browsers that offers web protections such as blocking third-party trackers, malware, and online scams.
Avast One Essential
Avast is one of the best free antivirus programs available. It finds and blocks various threats including viruses, ransomware, and phishing. Avast’s Network Inspector and Smart Scan help you spot flaws in your security so you know what you need to fix to protect yourself. It also includes a Silent Mode that completely silences alerts and pop-ups from Avast.
Since it’s a free program, you’ll miss out on some features exclusive to the premium package, including remote hacking protection and the ability to protect up to 10 devices. Avast One Essential is free, but the paid versions offer more features.
We found Avast One’s paid versions to be affordable and effective at protecting all your devices. You get more security and performance features than withthe free offering, like unlimited VPN data, a more advanced firewall, and identity theft protection.
AVG Antivirus Free
AVG has two major selling points. First, this free antivirus option has an impressively broad reach. The software will not only search for viruses and malware, but it also helps block suspicious links, prevent suspect downloads, and keep suspicious email attachments from being used. That makes the app a good choice for a family, people less tech-savvy, and anyone with a tight budget.
The second benefit is AVG’s affinity with Google platforms, as it has one of the better Android downloads. With the Android app, you can do things like scan and remove malware and scan the Wi-Fi network you’re using. The Android app also has a web shield that warns you about websites with malware. And you can even use the app to check your Wi-Fi network’s speed.
As our review notes, AVG’s nice free antivirus app does have limitations and some cleanup operations require a subscription.
Avira Free Antivirus
Avira’s streamlined free antivirus software is one of the best options for getting exactly the security features you want without any unnecessary extras or annoying bloat. Download options are available for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS — and Mac/iOS support is particularly good, making this a strong choice for Apple users.
The free version of Avira’s antivirus program comes with virus scans and blocking, infected file repairs, real-time updates, a potentially unwanted application (PUA) shield, an ad blocker, and a tracking blocker.
The paid version adds browser protection, a key component to prevent malware before you get a computer virus. We liked Avira Prime’s unique monthly pricing, but found subscription prices to be too expensive overall. However, the free version is good.
How do you know which free antivirus software is right for you?
It all depends on your security needs. Some free antivirus programs only focus on detecting and removing malware, but others may offer more protection in the way of anti-phishing and ad-blocking features. If you browse the web often or download email attachments often, you may want to consider antivirus options that offer web protection and email protection. If you want to be able to monitor and protect all of your devices (mobile and PC) at once with the same program, you should pick a free antivirus software that is available on all of the platforms your devices run on.
The best antivirus for Windows 11
The best antivirus software includes a comprehensive suite of tools and services to safeguard your computer and your personal data from viruses, malware, and scams. Real-time security that blocks dangerous activity and proactive protection that looks for weaknesses often requires a subscription.
Cybersecurity companies work tirelessly to meet the growing challenge of combating sophisticated malware. That’s why the best solutions usually aren’t free. However, you can find great deals on antivirus software to cut subscription costs to a minimum or take advantage of free trials.
Thankfully, Microsoft Defender provides some relief, and the free solutions mentioned above offer additional protection. If you choose free antivirus software, use two-factor authentication and be careful in terms of which websites you visit, how much information you share online, and what you download. Prevention is the best way to avoid trouble.
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