Here's where to start when looking for the best antivirus software for your specific needs.įree version? Yes, free antivirus built into Windows 10. Whether you're looking for free antivirus protection or willing to pay for an antivirus program that offers more security features, we have you covered. These tools are all essential in protecting your personal information. A secure virtual private network can help protect your internet privacy, and a password manager will help you create and keep track of more secure login credentials. Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, and the more steps you take to lock down your online security, the safer you'll be. Note that antivirus software is only a piece of the cybersecurity puzzle. We regularly research and test software to determine which product leads the pack, and we update this list periodically based on those tests. These picks of the best antivirus programs are a combination of recommendations from independent third-party labs AV-Test, AV-Comparatives and SE Labs, as well as CNET's own hands-on testing. Windows-targeted malware has a larger base of devices to infect, giving it more potential in the eyes of cybercriminals.īut don't worry - we're here to help you find the antivirus software that best fits your needs. Windows devices make up three out of every four laptop or desktop operating systems, according to February data from Statcounter, which paints a bigger target on those devices. The best antivirus software combines malware protection, secure browsing and monitored downloads to stop suspicious behavior and malicious acts.įinding good antivirus software is especially important for people using Windows operating systems such as Windows 10 and Windows 11. Antivirus software has come a long way over the past few decades as people's lives move further online and as malware grows more complex.

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