I understand how important it is to keep your PC safe from the countless online threats that can put your personal information and computer at risk. However, with so many antivirus programs available, it can be challenging to decide which one is the best antivirus for PC.
That’s why we have created this comprehensive guide, where you’ll find my top 10 picks for the best antivirus for PC in 2023, ranked and reviewed. This article is designed to help you make an informed decision and protect your digital life. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the list.
Our Top Picks: Best free antivirus for Windows 11
How to Choose the Best Antivirus for PC: A Step-By-Step Guide
Choosing the best antivirus for your PC is important because it protects against malware, improves performance, safeguards personal information, and provides peace of mind.
However, selecting the right antivirus can make all the difference in keeping your PC safe and secure. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to choose the best antivirus for your PC:
Step 1. Determine Your Needs: It’s important to identify your specific needs before selecting an antivirus program. For example, think about the type of activities you perform on your PC, the level of protection you require, and any additional features you may need, such as parental controls or a firewall.
Step 2. Evaluate Your Budget: Antivirus software can vary significantly in price, so consider your budget when selecting an option. Remember that some programs offer free versions, but they may not have all the features of a paid version.
Step 3. Look for Independent Test Results: Research the effectiveness of different antivirus programs through independent testing labs. These labs run various malware tests and provide reports on which antivirus programs perform the best.
Step 4. Check for Ease of Use: Ensure that the antivirus software is easy to use and navigate. Consider whether it has an intuitive interface, clear instructions, and user-friendly controls.
Step 5. Consider Additional Features: Look for additional features such as email protection, parental controls, or identity theft protection. Consider whether these features are essential to you.
Step 6. Look for Technical Support: Check if the antivirus company offers technical support, such as phone or chat support, FAQs, and online documentation. Ensure that they are responsive and reliable.
Step 7. Check the Frequency of Updates: Ensure that the antivirus software is updated regularly to protect against new and emerging threats. Look for software that provides automatic updates to ensure your PC is always protected.
By following these steps, you can choose the best antivirus software for your PC that fits your needs and budget and provides reliable protection against malware and other online threats. So, don’t compromise the security of your PC, and choose the best antivirus software today.
What are the Must-Have Features in Antivirus Software?
To ensure your PC is safe and secure, it’s important to choose antivirus software that has the following must-have features:
Real-Time Protection: This feature provides continuous monitoring of your PC for any potential threats, preventing them from infecting your computer.
Malware Detection and Removal: This feature scans your computer for any malware and viruses and removes them from your PC.
Firewall: A firewall is a security feature that prevents unauthorized access to your PC by blocking suspicious traffic from the internet.
Anti-Phishing: This feature protects against phishing attacks by identifying and blocking malicious websites and emails.
Also Read: How To Choose The Best Antivirus Software For Windows 10?
Email Protection: Antivirus software with email protection scans all incoming and outgoing emails for malware and viruses.
Parental Controls: This feature allows parents to monitor and control their children’s online activity, such as blocking inappropriate websites and limiting screen time.
VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your online privacy and allowing you to browse the internet anonymously.
Password Manager: This feature securely stores all your passwords, making it easier to remember and use strong, unique passwords for each account.
Backup and Restore: This feature creates backup copies of your important files and data, allowing you to restore them in case of a cyber-attack or system failure.
By choosing antivirus software with these must-have features, you can ensure that your PC is protected against malware, viruses, and other online threats.
1. Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton has been a household name in antivirus software for years, and their 2023 offering, Norton 360 Deluxe, continues to impress. It offers a comprehensive suite of protection features, making it one of the best antivirus for PC options available. These features include:
- Real-time malware protection
- Advanced firewall
- VPN for online privacy
- Password manager
- Parental controls
Norton 360 Deluxe consistently scores high in independent lab tests for malware detection and removal, making it a top choice for overall protection. Additionally, its user-friendly interface and easy-to-understand settings make it an excellent option for users of all experience levels.
| Specifications of Norton 360 Deluxe for PC | |
| Operating system: | Windows (compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10) |
| Maximum devices covered: | 5 |
| Features: | Real-time protection against viruses, malware, spyware, and other online threats; firewall; secure VPN; password manager; parental controls; online backup |
| Additional features: | SafeCam for PC, Dark Web Monitoring, anti-phishing technology, smart firewall for network protection |
| Customer support: | 24/7 support via phone, chat, or email |
| Automatic updates: | Yes |
2. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is a powerful antivirus solution that offers top-notch malware protection, as well as a range of valuable extras. Some of its standout features include:
- Advanced threat detection
- Multi-layer ransomware protection
- Secure browsing with anti-phishing
- Password manager
- File shredder
Bitdefender consistently scores well in independent lab tests, demonstrating its ability to protect against malware effectively. The software also boasts a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy for users to navigate and customize settings. These factors make it a strong contender for the title of best antivirus for PC.
| Specifications of Bitdefender Antivirus For PC | |
| Operating system: | Windows (compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10) |
| Maximum devices covered: | 3 |
| Features: | Advanced protection against viruses, malware, spyware, multi-layer ransomware protection, anti-phishing and anti-fraud protection, Wi-Fi security advisor, Bitdefender VPN |
| Additional features: | Safepay browser, file shredder, password manager, parental controls |
| Customer support: | 24/7 support via phone, chat, or email |
| Automatic updates: | Yes |
3. Kaspersky Total Security
Kaspersky Total Security is another well-known name in the antivirus industry, and its comprehensive protection features make it a top choice for the best antivirus for PC. Kaspersky Total Security includes:
- Real-time antivirus and anti-malware protection
- Advanced ransomware protection
- Privacy protection
- Safe money for secure online transactions
- Parental controls
Kaspersky consistently delivers high malware detection and removal rates in independent lab tests. The software also offers a user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate and customize settings according to your preferences.
| Specifications Of Kaspersky Total Security For PC | |
| Operating system: | Windows (compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10) |
| Maximum devices covered: | 5 |
| Features: | Advanced protection, real-time protection, firewall, anti-phishing and anti-spam protection, webcam, secure VPN, and parental controls. |
| Additional features: | Password manager, backup and restore capabilities, file encryption, and multi-device security to protect PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. |
| Customer support: | 24/7 support via phone, chat, or email |
| Automatic updates: | Yes, to ensure the latest protection against emerging threats. |
4. McAfee Total Protection
McAfee Total Protection is a feature-rich antivirus solution that covers all the bases when it comes to protecting your PC. Some of its key features include:
- Real-time antivirus protection
- Home network protection
- Identity theft protection
- Safe browsing with anti-phishing
- Password manager
McAfee’s performance in independent lab tests is impressive, with high scores in malware detection and removal. The software’s interface is easy to use, and the settings are customizable, making it a strong contender for the best antivirus for PC.
| Specifications Of McAfee Total Protection For PC | |
| Operating system: | Windows (compatible with Windows 10, 8.1, 8, and 7 SP1) |
| Maximum devices covered: | 10 |
| Features: | Advanced protection, malware, spyware, firewall, identity theft protection, anti-phishing protection, password manager, parental controls, and network monitoring. |
| Additional features: | Safe web browsing, file encryption, performance optimization, McAfee Shredder to securely delete files, unlimited VPN |
| Customer support: | 24/7 support via phone, chat, or email |
| Automatic updates: | Yes, to ensure the latest protection against emerging threats. |
5. Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus
Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus is a lightweight and efficient antivirus solution, perfect for users who want a fast and discreet program. Some of its key features include:
- Real-time malware protection
- Ransomware protection
- Secure browsing with anti-phishing
- Identity theft protection
- System optimizer
Webroot has a reputation for its high malware detection rates and minimal impact on system performance. The software is easy to navigate, with an intuitive interface and customizable settings.
| Specifications Of Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus | |
| Operating system: | Windows (compatible with Windows 10, 8.1, and 8) |
| Maximum devices covered: | 3 |
| Features: | Advanced protection, online threats, firewall; identity theft protection, password manager, cloud-based threat analysis, webcam protection; system optimizer. |
| Additional features: | Lightning-fast scanning, small system footprint for minimal impact on performance, automatic backup and secure online storage, and mobile device protection. |
| Customer support: | 24/7 support or email |
| Automatic updates: | Yes |
6. ESET Internet Security
ESET Internet Security is a reliable antivirus solution that provides a comprehensive set of security features, making it a strong contender for the best antivirus for PC. Some of its key features include:
- Real-time malware protection
- Ransomware protection
- Firewall and network protection
- Banking and payment protection
- Parental controls
ESET consistently performs well in independent lab tests, offering high malware detection and removal rates. Its user-friendly interface and customizable settings make it a popular choice for users looking for a reliable antivirus solution.
| Specifications Of ESET Internet Security For PC | |
| Operating system: | Windows (compatible with Windows 10, 8.1, 8, and 7 SP1) |
| Maximum devices covered: | 5 |
| Features: | Advanced protection against viruses, malware, spyware, and other online threats; real-time protection; firewall; anti-phishing protection; banking and payment protection; webcam protection; parental controls |
| Extra features: | Anti-theft protection, device control to block unauthorized devices; network attack protection; file encryption; password manager |
| Customer support: | 24/7 with mail |
| Automatic updates: | Yes |
7. Avast Free Antivirus
If you’re looking for a free antivirus solution that still offers robust protection, Avast Free Antivirus is a fantastic choice. Despite being free, it still packs a punch with its range of features, which include:
- Real-time malware protection
- Wi-Fi security scanning
- Ransomware protection
- Password manager
- Software updater
Avast Free Antivirus is well-known for its high malware detection rates and low impact on system performance. Its user-friendly interface and customizable settings make it an excellent option for those seeking a free yet effective antivirus solution.
| Specifications Of Avast Free Antivirus For PC | |
| Operating system: | Windows (compatible with Windows 10, 8.1, 8, and 7 SP1) |
| Maximum devices covered: | 1 |
| Features: | Real-time protection, Wi-Fi inspector, password manager, browser cleanup, game mode |
| Additional features: | Behavior Shield to prevent zero-second attacks, passive mode to run multiple security products, CyberCapture to detect and analyze unknown files, Do Not Disturb mode |
| Customer support: | Online support via chat or forums |
| Automatic updates: | Yes |
8. Trend Micro Maximum Security
Trend Micro Maximum Security is a comprehensive antivirus solution that provides strong protection for your PC. Some of its standout features include:
- Real-time malware protection
- Multi-layer ransomware protection
- Social media privacy protection
- Password manager
- Parental controls
Trend Micro consistently performs well in independent lab tests, offering high malware detection and removal rates. Its intuitive interface and customizable settings make it a solid choice for users looking for an all-around antivirus solution.
| Specifications Of Trend Micro For PC | |
| Operating system: | Windows (compatible with Windows 10, 8.1, and 7 SP1) |
| Maximum devices covered: | 1 |
| Features: | Advanced protection again online threats; real-time protection; firewall; anti-phishing protection; parental controls; PC optimization |
| Additional features: | Ransomware protection; AI technology to detect and block new and unknown threats; social media privacy scanner; ID theft protection |
| Customer support: | Online support via chat, phone, or email |
| Automatic updates: | Yes, to ensure the latest protection against emerging threats |
9. Avira Antivirus Pro
Avira Antivirus Pro is a powerful antivirus solution that offers a range of advanced features to keep your PC safe. Some of its key features include:
- Real-time malware protection
- Advanced ransomware protection
- Safe shopping and banking protection
- Privacy protection
- System optimization tools
Avira consistently scores high in independent lab tests, making it an excellent choice for users seeking top-notch malware protection. Its user-friendly interface and customizable settings make it a popular choice among users.
| Specifications Of Avira Antivirus For PC | |
| Operating system: | Windows (compatible with Windows 10, 8.1, 8, and 7 SP1) |
| Maximum devices covered: | 1 |
| Features: | Advanced protection against malware, spyware, and other online threats, anti-phishing protection, ransomware protection, password manager, PC optimization |
| Additional features: | Browser extension, privacy tools, free VPN |
| Customer support: | Online support via chat, phone, or email |
| Automatic updates: | Yes |
10. Sophos Home Premium
Sophos Home Premium is a robust antivirus solution designed for both home and business use. Its comprehensive feature set includes:
- Real-time malware protection
- Advanced ransomware protection
- Privacy protection
- Safe browsing with anti-phishing
- Parental controls
Sophos Home Premium consistently performs well in independent lab tests, demonstrating its ability to protect against malware effectively. Its intuitive interface and customizable settings make it a great choice for users looking for a versatile antivirus solution.
| Specifications Of Sophos Home For PC | |
| Operating system: | Windows (compatible with Windows 10, 8.1, 8, and 7 SP1) |
| Maximum devices covered: | 10 |
| Features: | Advanced real-time protection; parental controls; web filtering; remote management; AI technology to detect and block new and unknown threats. |
| Additional features: | Ransomware protection, banking protection, privacy protection, advanced malware removal, and device control to block unauthorized devices. |
| Customer support: | Online support via chat or email |
| Automatic updates: | Yes |
Comparison of Top 10 Best Antivirus for PC
Here’s a comparison of the top 10 best antivirus for PC mentioned in the article:
| Rank | Antivirus Software | Real-time Malware Protection | Ransomware Protection | Firewall/Network Protection | Privacy Protection | Parental Controls | Password Manager | Free Version Available |
| 1 | Norton 360 Deluxe | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| 2 | Bitdefender Antivirus Plus | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| 3 | Kaspersky Total Security | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| 4 | McAfee Total Protection | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| 5 | Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| 6 | ESET Internet Security | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No |
| 7 | Avast Free Antivirus | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| 8 | Trend Micro Maximum Security | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| 9 | Avira Antivirus Pro | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| 10 | Sophos Home Premium | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Additional 5 Best Antivirus for PC in 2023
As mentioned above, we have already shared the top 10 antivirus for PC. However, to provide a comprehensive overview of the best antivirus software for PCs, we have decided to add five more to the list based on their rating and reviews. This will give you a broader understanding of the best antivirus software available for your PC in 2023.
#1. Comodo Internet Security
It offers multi-layered protection against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Popular features are a firewall, anti-phishing protection, and sandbox technology. Prices start at $29.99/year.
#2. Panda Dome
It provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Includes a firewall, parental controls, and identity protection. Prices start at $47.99/year.
#3. Vipre Antivirus Plus
It offers advanced protection against viruses, malware, and ransomware. Includes a firewall, email security, and a spam filter. Prices start at $49.99/year.
#4. TotalAV
It provides comprehensive protection against viruses, malware, and other online threats. Includes a firewall, password manager, and system optimization tools. Prices start at $29/year.
#5. BullGuard Premium Protection
It offers advanced protection against all types of online threats, including viruses, malware, and phishing attacks. Includes a firewall, parental controls, and a vulnerability scanner. Prices start at $99.99/year.
These antivirus software programs provide robust protection against online threats.
How to Buy Antivirus Software?
Here are some steps on how to buy antivirus software:
- Research Your Options: Look for reputable antivirus software companies and compare their products. Check for independent reviews and ratings, and consider the features, pricing, and compatibility of each option.
- Decide on Free or Paid: Determine whether you want to use a free or paid antivirus program. Free options may not have all the features you need, but paid options can be more expensive.
- Choose a Reliable Vendor: Select a vendor that is trustworthy and has a good reputation. Look for vendors that provide reliable customer service and technical support.
- Check System Requirements: Make sure the antivirus software you choose is compatible with your computer’s operating system and hardware.
- Read the Fine Print: Read the terms and conditions of the antivirus software before making a purchase. Check for any limitations or restrictions on the software, such as the number of devices it can protect.
- Look for Discounts: Check for discounts and promotions before making a purchase. Some vendors offer discounts for annual subscriptions or multi-year plans.
- Purchase and Install: Once you have made a decision, purchase the antivirus software and follow the instructions to install it on your computer. Be sure to update the software regularly to ensure it provides the best protection against new and emerging threats.
Also Read: How To Download Smadav in Laptop?
By following these steps, you can buy antivirus software that meets your needs, provides reliable protection, and keeps your computer safe and secure.
Top PC Antivirus Programs of the Year (2023)
We have also curated a list of the most effective and popular antivirus software programs currently available in the market.
| Antivirus Program | Key Features | Price |
| Norton 360 Deluxe | Real-time protection, VPN, parental controls, password manager, backup, and restore | $39.99/year |
| Bitdefender Total Security | Advanced protection against malware, VPN, anti-phishing, multi-layer ransomware protection, and parental controls | $44.99/year |
| Kaspersky Total Security | Real-time protection, VPN, password manager, parental controls, anti-phishing, and webcam protection | $49.99/year |
How Antivirus for Business Differs from Antivirus for Home Use
Antivirus software is essential for both business and home use. However, there are some key differences between antivirus software designed for these two different settings.
Business Use:
- Multiple Users: Antivirus software for businesses is designed to protect multiple users across a network. It usually has centralized management, allowing administrators to monitor and manage the security of all devices from a single console.
- Advanced Features: Business antivirus software often comes with advanced features like firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention, email filtering, and data loss prevention.
- Scalability: Business antivirus software is designed to scale up as the business grows. It can protect hundreds or even thousands of devices and is often available as a subscription service.
- Compliance: Some industries, such as healthcare and finance, have specific regulations that require businesses to have specific security measures in place. Business antivirus software may be designed to meet these compliance requirements.
Home Use:
- Single User: Antivirus software for home use is designed to protect a single user or a few users on a small network.
- Basic Features: Home antivirus software typically offers basic features such as real-time protection, malware scanning, and web protection.
- Affordability: Home antivirus software is usually more affordable than business antivirus software, with many free options available.
- Ease of Use: Home antivirus software is designed to be easy to use and requires little to no technical expertise to set up and maintain.
In summary, antivirus software for business is more advanced, scalable, and designed to meet specific compliance requirements. Antivirus software for home use is typically more basic, affordable, and easy to use. Choosing the right antivirus software is essential based on your needs and requirements.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best antivirus for your PC can be daunting, but we hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision. Each antivirus solution listed above offers a unique combination of features and protection capabilities, so consider your specific needs and preferences before making a choice.
By investing in a reliable antivirus program, you can ensure the safety and security of your personal information and computer, giving you peace of mind in today’s digital world.
FAQs – Best Antivirus for PC
- How do I choose the best antivirus for my PC?
When choosing the best antivirus for your PC, consider the software’s malware detection and removal rates, the impact on system performance, ease of use, and additional features like parental controls, password managers, and privacy protection. Independent lab test results and user reviews can also help make your decision.
- How often should I update my antivirus software?
It’s crucial to keep your antivirus software updated regularly to ensure it can protect your PC against the latest threats. Most antivirus programs update their virus definitions automatically, but it’s good practice to check for updates manually at least once a week.
- How can I be sure that the antivirus software I’ve chosen is effective?
To evaluate the effectiveness of an antivirus program, you can refer to independent lab test results from organizations like AV-Comparatives and AV-TEST. These tests measure antivirus software’s performance in detecting and removing malware, as well as its impact on system performance.
- How do antivirus programs protect my PC from ransomware?
Antivirus programs use various techniques to protect your PC from ransomware, including real-time scanning, behavioral analysis, and heuristics. These methods help identify and block ransomware before it can encrypt your files, ensuring your data remains safe.
- How can I improve the security of my PC in addition to using antivirus software?
In addition to using a reliable antivirus program, you can improve your PC’s security by:
– Keeping your operating system and software up to date
– Using strong and unique passwords for all accounts
– Enabling two-factor authentication whenever possible
– Being cautious when clicking on links and opening email attachments
– Regularly backing up your data - How does an antivirus program detect malware?
Antivirus programs use various techniques to detect malware, including signature-based detection, behavioral analysis, and heuristics. Signature-based detection involves comparing files on your PC to a database of known malware signatures, while behavioral analysis and heuristics look for suspicious file behavior and characteristics that may indicate a potential threat.
- How do I know if my antivirus software is working properly?
To ensure your antivirus software is working correctly, you can perform periodic scans of your PC and check the software’s logs for any detected threats. Additionally, you can check the antivirus program’s settings to make sure it’s receiving regular updates and running scheduled scans.
- How do I remove an existing antivirus program before installing a new one?
Before installing a new antivirus program, it’s essential to uninstall any existing antivirus software to avoid conflicts. To do this, go to the Control Panel, select “Programs and Features,” find the antivirus software you want to uninstall, and follow the prompts. Some antivirus providers also offer removal tools to ensure complete uninstallation.
- How can I protect my PC from phishing attacks?
Many antivirus programs offer anti-phishing features that can help protect your PC from phishing attacks. In addition to using antivirus software, you can also protect yourself by being cautious when clicking on links in emails, text messages, and social media posts and by only entering sensitive information on secure websites with a valid SSL certificate.
- How do I know if a website is safe to visit?
A safe website will typically display a padlock icon in the address bar and use the “https” protocol. Many antivirus programs also offer features like safe browsing, which can help identify potentially dangerous websites before you visit them.
However, it’s always a good idea to exercise caution when visiting unfamiliar websites and to avoid providing sensitive information unless you’re confident in the website’s security.
Additionally, you can use website reputation services, such as Google Safe Browsing, to check if a website has been flagged for containing malware or engaging in phishing activities. By combining these strategies with a reliable antivirus program, you can ensure a safer browsing experience.
- What is the best antivirus software?
Here are the top three antivirus software options for 2023:
Avira: Comprehensive protection against malware with a firewall and email security.
McAfee: World-class security with a robust firewall, email protection, and ransomware defense. It also includes a password manager and parental controls.
Avast: Real-time protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware attacks, ideal for those who work from home. It includes a firewall and email security.