Top 10 Best Free Antivirus For Windows 11 in 2023

In today’s digital age, computer security is a major concern for everyone who uses a Windows 11 PC.

With the increased risk of cyberattacks, viruses, and malware, it’s crucial to have a reliable antivirus program installed on your computer.

Fortunately, many free antivirus programs are available that provide excellent protection without costing a dime.

In this blog, we’ll look at the best free antivirus for Windows 11.

Before we dive into the details of antivirus programs, let’s first understand what the best free antivirus for windows 11 programs is and why it is necessary.

What Is the Best Free Antivirus For Windows 11?

An antivirus program is software designed to detect, prevent and remove malicious software from your computer. This malicious software includes viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, adware, and other types of malware that can harm your computer or steal your personal information.

Antivirus programs use a combination of signature-based detection, behavioral analysis, and machine-learning algorithms to identify and remove malware from your computer.

Our Top Picks: Best Antivirus For Windows 10

These programs constantly monitor your computer and scan for any suspicious activity; if any malware is detected, they take action to remove it from your system.

Why Is the Best Free Antivirus For Windows 11 Necessary?

An antivirus program installed on your computer is necessary because it protects your computer from various types of malicious software that can harm or steal your personal information.

Cybercriminals are always coming up with new and sophisticated ways to attack computer systems, and an antivirus program provides a defense against these attacks.

Antivirus programs also protect your computer from phishing attacks, which are attempts to steal your personal information by pretending to be a legitimate entity such as a bank, social media platform, or government agency.

With an antivirus program installed, you can be confident that your personal information is protected from these types of attacks.

Also Read: What is the best antivirus for windows 11?

What to Look for in the Best Free Antivirus For Windows 11?

When choosing an antivirus program, there are a few things to look for to ensure that you are getting the best protection for your computer. Some of the things to look for include the following:

#1. Real-time Protection:

Real-time protection is a feature that constantly monitors your computer for any malicious activity and immediately takes action to remove any threats detected.

#2. Malware Detection:

The antivirus program should be able to detect and remove various types of malware, including viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, adware, and other types of malicious software.

#3. System Performance:

The antivirus program should not slow down your computer or cause any performance issues. It should be lightweight and run in the background without affecting your computer’s performance.

#4. User-Friendly Interface:

The antivirus program should have a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and understand. It should also provide regular updates and notifications about any potential threats.

Also Read: Best antivirus for windows 11

#5. Customer Support:

The antivirus program should offer reliable customer support if you need assistance with any issues.

10 Best Free Antivirus For Windows 11

Now that we know what to look for in an antivirus program, let’s take a look at the best free antivirus for Windows 11.

#1. Windows Defender

Windows Defender is Microsoft’s built-in antivirus program that comes pre-installed on all Windows 11 computers. It provides real-time protection against various types of malware, including viruses, spyware, and other malicious software.

Windows Defender is easy to use and has a simple interface that makes it easy to navigate. It also provides regular updates and notifications about any potential threats.

One of the benefits of using Windows Defender is that it is lightweight and does not slow down your computer’s performance.

It also integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft services, such as Microsoft Edge and Microsoft Office.

However, Windows Defender has some limitations regarding detecting and removing advanced malware. If you are looking for more comprehensive protection, you may need to consider other options.

Pros and Cons of Windows Defender

If you’re considering Windows Defender as your antivirus solution, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons to determine if it’s the right choice for your specific needs and preferences.

Pros of Windows Defender:

• Comes pre-installed on Windows.

• Provides real-time protection.

• Low resource usage.

• Integrates well with Windows.

• Frequent updates.

Cons of Windows Defender:

• Limited features compared to premium AV.

• May not detect all malware.

• Limited control over scans and updates.

• May interfere with other AV programs.

• No customer support.

#2. Avast Free Antivirus

Avast Free Antivirus is one of the most popular free antivirus programs available for Windows 11. It offers real-time protection against various types of malware, including viruses, spyware, and ransomware.

One of the standout features of Avast Free Antivirus is its advanced malware detection capabilities. It uses a combination of signature-based detection, behavioral analysis, and machine learning algorithms to identify and remove advanced malware from your computer.

Avast Free Antivirus also includes a wide range of additional features, such as a password manager, a secure browser, and a Wi-Fi inspector that scans your network for any vulnerabilities.

Also Read: How To Scan System With Best Free Windows Antivirus?

However, some users have reported that Avast Free Antivirus can be resource-intensive and may slow down your computer’s performance. Additionally, the free version of Avast comes with ads and pop-ups that can be annoying.

Pros and Cons of Avast Free Antivirus

Avast Free Antivirus is a popular choice for users, but as with any software, there are both pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s the right fit for your needs.

Pros of Avast Free Antivirus:

• Offers a wide range of features for a free antivirus program.

• Includes real-time protection against viruses, spyware, and malware.

• Offers a comprehensive scan of your entire system.

• Provides email scanning and anti-spam protection.

• Comes with a Wi-Fi inspector to identify vulnerabilities in your network.

Cons of Avast Free Antivirus:

• Free version comes with ads and pop-ups.

• May slow down your system during scans.

• Some users have reported issues with false positives.

• May use more system resources compared to other antivirus programs.

• May require regular updates to keep up with new threats.

#3. AVG AntiVirus Free

AVG AntiVirus Free is another popular free antivirus program that provides comprehensive protection against various types of malware.

It offers real-time protection, malware detection, and a range of additional features, such as a file shredder and a webcam blocker.

AVG AntiVirus Free uses a combination of signature-based detection, behavioral analysis, and machine-learning algorithms to identify and remove malware from your computer.

It also includes a feature called “CyberCapture” that sends any suspicious files to the AVG Threat Labs for analysis.

One of the standout features of AVG AntiVirus Free is its ability to scan your computer quickly and efficiently. It also includes a game mode that allows you to play games without any interruptions or slowdowns.

However, like Avast, AVG AntiVirus Free comes with ads and pop-ups that can be annoying. Some users have also reported that the program can be resource-intensive and may slow down their computer’s performance.

Pros and Cons of AVG AntiVirus

AVG Antivirus is a decent security program that has both its pros and cons.

Pros of AVG AntiVirus Free:

• Provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and spyware.

• Includes email scanning and anti-spam protection.

• Comes with a comprehensive scan of your entire system.

• Offers a range of additional features, including a file shredder, password manager, and PC tune-up tool.

Cons of AVG AntiVirus Free:

• Free version comes with ads and pop-ups.

• May slow down your system during scans.

• May not offer as much protection as some premium antivirus programs.

#4. Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition

Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition is a lightweight antivirus program that offers real-time protection against various types of malware.

It uses a combination of signature-based detection, behavioral analysis, and machine learning algorithms to detect and remove malware from your computer.

One of the standout features of Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition is its ability to scan your computer quickly and efficiently.

It also includes a feature called “Bitdefender Autopilot” that automatically adjusts the program’s settings based on your usage patterns.

Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition is also lightweight and does not consume a lot of system resources. It also includes a feature called “Phishing Protection” that blocks malicious websites and phishing attacks.

However, the free version of Bitdefender does not include some of the advanced features that are available in the paid version, such as a firewall and parental controls.

Pros and Cons of Bitdefender Antivirus

One of the more popular options is Bitdefender Antivirus. But is it the right choice for you? Here are some pros and cons to consider.

Pros of Bitdefender Antivirus:

• Provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and spyware.

• Low resource usage.

• Easy to use and install.

• Includes a comprehensive scan of your entire system.

Cons of Bitdefender Antivirus:

• May not offer as many features as premium antivirus programs.

• May not detect all malware.

#5. Kaspersky Security Cloud Free

Kaspersky Security Cloud Free is a comprehensive antivirus program that offers real-time protection against various types of malware.

It uses a combination of signature-based detection, behavioral analysis, and machine learning algorithms to detect and remove malware from your computer.

One of the standout features of Kaspersky Security Cloud Free is its ability to protect your online activity.

It includes a feature called “Safe Money” that protects your online transactions and a virtual keyboard that prevents keyloggers from capturing your keystrokes.

Kaspersky Security Cloud Free includes various additional features, such as a password manager, a VPN, and a file shredder.

However, some users have expressed concerns about the privacy implications of using Kaspersky products.

In 2017, the US government banned using Kaspersky products on government computers, citing concerns about the company’s ties to the Russian government.

Pros and Cons of Kaspersky Security Cloud Free

However, like any other software, it has its pros and cons. Here are some of the most important ones to consider before deciding whether to use Kaspersky.

Pros of Kaspersky Security Cloud Free:

• Provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and spyware.

• Includes email scanning and anti-spam protection.

• Comes with a range of additional features, including parental controls and password management.

Cons of Kaspersky Security Cloud Free:

• May use more system resources than some other antivirus programs.

• Free version is limited in terms of features and protection.

#6. Panda Free Antivirus

Panda Free Antivirus is a great option for those seeking a lightweight and user-friendly antivirus program. Its features and construction are comparable to other antivirus software programs, and it doesn’t consume too many resources, so you can use other apps while it scans.

The user interface is clean and straightforward, with options to adjust the configuration settings, although this may not be immediately apparent. One downside to Panda is that configuring it requires navigating through various menus.

Another point to note is that Panda will prompt you to install the Opera web browser, which some users may see as extra bloatware. While Opera is not malicious, it can be easily uninstalled if you prefer not to use it.

On the positive side, Panda Antivirus provides real-time protection against viruses, online fraud, spyware, and rootkits. Upon installation, it will automatically scan your files to ensure that everything is secure.

Moreover, scanning is continuous and offers protection for as long as you are using your Windows 11 computer. An interesting feature of Panda is the news feed at the bottom of the window that keeps you updated on the latest events in cybersecurity.

Pros and Cons of Panda Antivirus

Panda Antivirus is one of the more popular alternatives. Is it, however, the best option for you? These are some advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Pros of Panda Antivirus:

• Provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and spyware.

• Low resource usage.

• Easy to use and install.

• Includes a comprehensive scan of your entire system.

Cons of Panda Antivirus:

• May not offer as many features as premium antivirus programs.

• May not detect all malware.

#7. ZoneAlarm

Last but certainly not least, Originally focused on providing software and cybersecurity solutions to businesses, ZoneAlarm now brings its expertise to the consumer market.

By leveraging the knowledge it gained from serving the corporate world, ZoneAlarm offers a robust antivirus program that caters to the needs of everyday users.

Like other antivirus programs, ZoneAlarm provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, spyware, and other harmful software.

However, it stands out from the rest by including a firewall.

While most antivirus programs rely on the computer’s built-in firewall, such as Windows Defender, ZoneAlarm takes it to the next level by providing a customizable firewall.

You can configure it to block public server and VPN protocols, filter IP traffic, and turn on ARP protection. With the firewall, you can create unique scan modes tailored to your needs.

Also read: How To Choose The Best Antivirus Software For Windows 10?

Pros and Cons of ZoneAlarm

There are both pros and cons to using ZoneAlarm. Some of the pros and cons we include here for you!

Pros of ZoneAlarm:

• Provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and spyware.

• Includes email scanning and anti-spam protection.

• Offers a comprehensive scan of your entire system.

• Comes with additional features, including a firewall and identity protection.

Cons of ZoneAlarm:

• May use more system resources than some other antivirus programs.

• May not offer as much protection as some premium antivirus programs.

#8. Norton Antivirus

Norton Antivirus is widely recognized as one of the best free antivirus programs available for Windows 11.

It offers a comprehensive range of features to protect your computer from all types of malware, including viruses, spyware, ransomware, and more.

In addition to its excellent virus protection, Norton also includes features such as real-time scanning, automatic updates, and a smart firewall to keep your system secure.

The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it accessible for users of all levels of technical expertise.

With its strong performance and impressive feature set, Norton Antivirus is a top choice for those seeking reliable and free antivirus protection for their Windows 11 PC.

Pros and Cons of Norton Antivirus

As with any software, there are both pros and cons to using Norton Antivirus.

Pros of Norton Antivirus:

• Provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and spyware.

• Includes email scanning and anti-spam protection.

• Offers a comprehensive scan of your entire system.

• Comes with additional features, including a firewall and parental controls.

Cons of Norton Antivirus:

• May use more system resources than some other antivirus programs.

• May not offer as much protection as some premium antivirus programs.

#9. Surfshark Antivirus

While Surfshark is primarily known for its VPN service, it also offers a powerful and reliable antivirus program that is perfect for protecting your Windows 11 computer.

With Surfshark Antivirus, you can enjoy features such as real-time protection against viruses, malware, and other threats, as well as web filtering to keep you safe while browsing online.

Surfshark includes a smart firewall that helps keep your system secure by blocking unauthorized access attempts. The program is also lightweight and easy to use, with a simple interface that makes it accessible for users of all levels.

With its many features and strong performance, Surfshark Antivirus is a great choice for anyone seeking free and effective antivirus protection for their Windows 11 device.

Pros and Cons of Surfshark

Surfshark is a popular choice for those looking for a VPN provider. But what are the pros and cons of Surfshark? Let’s see!

Pros of Surfshark:

• Provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and other online threats.

• Offers a wide range of features, including anti-phishing, anti-tracking, and anti-ransomware protection.

• Uses AI-based algorithms to detect and block emerging threats.

• Low resource usage and fast scanning speed.

• Comes with a 30-day free trial.

Cons of Surfshark:

• Does not offer a free version.

• Limited information is available on its malware detection rates.

#10. ESET NOD32

ESET NOD32 is a highly respected and well-regarded antivirus program that offers robust protection for Windows 11 users.

This free antivirus software is known for its lightning-fast scanning and low impact on system performance, making it a great choice for those who don’t want their antivirus software to slow down their computer.

ESET NOD32 also offers a range of advanced features, including real-time protection, anti-phishing tools, and web filtering to keep you safe while browsing online.

Additionally, the program includes a smart firewall that helps protect your system from unauthorized access attempts.

With its comprehensive feature set and excellent performance, ESET NOD32 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for free antivirus protection for their Windows 11 device.

Pros and Cons of ESET NOD32

ESET NOD32 has been on the market for over two decades. It is highly effective at preventing viruses from infecting your computer.

However, there are some pros and cons to using this software.

Pros of ESET NOD32:

• Provides real-time protection against viruses, spyware, and other malware.

• Fast scanning speed and low resource usage.

• Offers a range of features, including anti-phishing and anti-ransomware protection.

• Comes with a 30-day free trial.

Cons of ESET NOD32:

• May not offer as many features as some other antivirus programs.

• Limited customer support options.

• May not be as effective in detecting and blocking emerging threats.

Comparison of 10 Best Free Antivirus For Windows 11

Welcome to our comparison table of the 10 best free antivirus software options available for Windows 11.

With so many options to choose from, our table provides a detailed breakdown of the features and benefits of each antivirus program to help you find the right one for your needs.

Also Read: Best Antivirus For Windows 7

5 Best Free Antivirus For Windows 11

In addition to the 10 free antiviruses for Windows 11 discussed above, several other options are available to consider.

1. Sophos Home Free: offers comprehensive malware protection, parental controls, and web filtering features for free.

2. TotalAV Free Antivirus: provides basic protection against malware, phishing, and other threats, as well as a VPN and other additional features.

3. Comodo Antivirus: provides basic malware protection and features like email filtering and sandboxing.

4. Trend Micro HouseCall: beginner-friendly and paid antivirus for Windows 11

5. F-Secure Online Scanner: good antivirus for Windows 11 with many features.

All popular free antivirus programs offer reliable protection against malware.

If you want to get a second opinion, you can use any one of the many free standalone on-demand antivirus scanners available.

Additionally, there are also some free cloud-based antivirus programs that you might find interesting.

If you have any other suggestions for free antivirus software that you believe are worth considering, feel free to share them with us in the comments section below.

How Technaverse Suggested the Best Free Antivirus For Windows 11

Based on the parameters below, here are our suggestions on

• Research: We conducted extensive research to identify the most popular and highly-rated free antivirus software options for Windows 11.

• Criteria: We established criteria for evaluating the software, such as its effectiveness in detecting and removing malware, its impact on system performance, ease of use, and additional features.

• Selection: Based on our research and criteria, we selected the top free antivirus software options for Windows 11.

• Testing: We installed each antivirus software on a Windows 11 device and ran various tests to evaluate their performance, including malware detection and removal, impact on system performance, and ease of use.

• Analysis: We analyzed the test results and evaluated each software based on our criteria to determine the best free antivirus for Windows 11.

• Reviews: We read detailed reviews of each software, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately selected the best free antivirus software for Windows 11.

Conclusion

Choosing the best free antivirus for Windows 11 systems can be challenging.

It is important to consider factors such as the level of protection, features, performance impact, and user experience.

While each of these programs has its strengths and weaknesses, they all offer adequate protection against various types of malware.

It is important to choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Remember, having an antivirus program installed on your computer is a crucial step in protecting it against cyber threats and ensuring the security of your personal and sensitive data.

Also Read: Do Best Free Antivirus Programs Offer Protection From Threats?

FAQs on Best Free Antivirus For Windows 11

Below are the frequently asked questions (faqs) on the best antivirus for windows 11.