There has been a steep rise in cyberattacks and malware outbreaks in recent years. There is not a single day when you don’t hear about them. This has necessitated the use of antivirus software., even for Ubuntu systems. They help in providing much-needed protection against them.
But choosing the best antivirus for your Ubuntu system takes a lot of work. You have to consider various factors to select the perfect one. We have compiled several considerations. It will help you choose the best antivirus software for your Ubuntu system.
Before that, let’s take a look at some questions. Ubuntu users usually think about it while searching for antivirus software.
Do I need an antivirus with Ubuntu?
Ubuntu is based on Linux, which is considered the safest OS built. So many may wonder: why even bother installing antivirus software?
Well, you’re mistaken. Although safe, Ubuntu still has several security vulnerabilities that can be exploited.
Also Read: How to Choose The Best Antivirus for macOS
They, too, can be infected using modern methodologies. This necessitates the use of antivirus software. It adds an extra layer of security and strengthens your system’s defenses against zero-day attacks.
Is there a built-in antivirus for Ubuntu?
No, there isn’t. However, you can easily download a free antivirus program known as ClamAV. It is available in their default Ubuntu repositories. You can also download or purchase other antivirus software instead.
How do I choose the best antivirus For Ubuntu?
Choosing the right antivirus software can be pretty hectic. After all, there are so many to choose from! However, you only need some right guidance and a few necessary pointers. You can then easily choose the best antivirus software to protect your system.
Let’s go through eight critical considerations that you must remember when selecting the best antivirus for Ubuntu:
- Ubuntu Compatible
Sometimes, antivirus software features seem quite appealing, so much so that we might overlook its compatibility with our Ubuntu system. Basic, yet easily missed! This is why it is necessary to ensure its compatibility with your current Ubuntu version. It should also support future OS updates and deliver optimal software performance.
Also Read: Which Antivirus Software Is Best
- Easy-To-Use UI
Your antivirus software must have an easy-to-use user interface. Most people tend to abandon their antivirus software due to a complex user interface. They cannot handle that overly technical outlook. In contrast, some may find it easier to work with it. It all depends on your expertise. Choose the software you can comfortably use with a clear understanding of all its aspects.
- Customer Support
People often Google or watch YouTube tutorials while facing issues with their antivirus software. However, sometimes they require technical service support. A quality customer support team augments your antivirus performance. If any problems arise, you can quickly sort them out with their help. Your antivirus software must have easy access to customer support. This way, you can quickly raise complaints and resolve your problems.
- Pricing & Features
If you are using free antivirus, then this is something you don’t need to worry about. However, you may miss out on various premium features that only the paid version provides. Those using paid ones must ensure it has all those required security features and is well within your budget. There should be no hidden charges. Also, be aware of your pricing plans, and choose one best suited to your needs.
- Performance Impact
We all experience a slight dip in system performance while using antivirus software. A small price every user pays for protecting their systems against much more significant threats. However, some antivirus software may have extensive resource requirements. Eventually, they will degrade your system’s performance and considerably slow it down. Therefore, you must avoid such antivirus software and choose those with a lesser performance impact.
- Online Protection
Although Ubuntu has a secured internal ecosystem, it lacks good online protection tools. As a result, your system is vulnerable to online threats such as phishing, botnets, DDoS attacks, etc. Your antivirus software must provide comprehensive online protection. It should be able to block malicious or spam websites and provide anti-phishing protection. In addition, it must scan all your downloads and detect online malware.
- Malware Protection
The digital ecosystem is swarming with various malware such as viruses, ransomware, spyware, etc. The best antivirus for Ubuntu is the one that provides all-around malware protection. It must have the latest malware directory for accurately detecting even the most advanced malware. Your antivirus software should have a modern scanning engine based on heuristics or machine learning. It should be able to scan your removable devices for possible malware infestations and repair them.
- User Trial
Most antivirus software either have a free version or provide a free trial to their user. This helps you assess their system performance and different security features. This is the best way to choose antivirus software. Hence, be sure to take a user trial. Some antivirus software, although only available in paid versions, comes with a money-back guarantee. You can get your money back if you are not satisfied with them.
Which is the best antivirus for Ubuntu?
Various antivirus programs are compatible with Ubuntu. Let’s have a look at some of the best antivirus for Ubuntu:
#1. Bitdefender GravityZone
Also known as BEST, it is a world-class antivirus software. It has different useful features that give you a quality antivirus software experience. For example, it provides firewall protection with a machine-learning-based scanning engine for malware detection. It also has a sandboxing feature, interactive GUI, and much more.
#2. Kaspersky Endpoint Security
Another world leader in antivirus software, Kaspersky provides comprehensive endpoint protection. It can even detect hidden malware and quarantine it. Kaspersky boasts 100% efficiency against ransomware attacks. Its other features are real-time threat protection, advanced web controls, etc.
Some other antivirus software companies are Sophos Antivirus, Trellix Endpoint Security, Avast Antivirus, and Comodo Antivirus.
Conclusion: Best Antivirus For Ubuntu
Antivirus software is the next line of defense after native in-built system tools. They safeguard your system against various threats and keep your data safe. Hence, it is important to consider different factors before choosing antivirus software. Some of them are system compatibility, malware detection, performance impact, etc.
Therefore, you must carefully evaluate them before making your decision. This will help you choose the best antivirus software for your Ubuntu system and protect it efficiently.