10 Best Antivirus Software in: With so many antivirus programs claiming to offer the best protection at the best price, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. After testing the top antivirus software available, I’ve found that only a few are truly strong, secure, and effective enough to be considered the best of 2025.

Most antivirus solutions go beyond just virus scanning — they also offer features like firewalls, phishing protection, VPNs, password managers, parental controls, and mobile device security. However, many antivirus programs don’t live up to their promises. They have low malware detection rates, fail to consistently block malicious websites, and their additional features often fall short and are poorly designed, despite charging extra for them.

I spent weeks testing and evaluating the best antivirus software on the market, considering factors like security, functionality, speed, and cost. Norton came out on top, but I also discovered 10 other excellent options. Each of these products offers money-back guarantees or free trials long enough for you to determine if they meet your needs. Read on to explore each one and find the best fit for you.

1. Norton 360 — Best Antivirus for Windows, Android, and iOS

Norton 360 offers exceptional virus and malware protection, making it one of the most reliable internet security suites available. It’s a complete, user-friendly antivirus solution that works seamlessly across all platforms, including Windows, Android, and iOS. It’s an ideal choice for home users seeking comprehensive cybersecurity with top-notch protections.

Norton uses an advanced scanning engine powered by heuristic analysis and machine learning, which allows it to detect and eliminate the latest and most sophisticated malware types. During my tests, it achieved a perfect 100% protection rate, outperforming built-in antiviruses like Microsoft Defender in threat detection and prevention.

In addition to its powerful malware protection, Norton 360 comes with a wide array of useful features:

Disclaimer

• Secure firewall
• Password manager
• Phishing protection (with a private browser)
• VPN with unlimited data
• Dark web monitoring
• Identity theft protection
• Optimization tools
• Parental controls
• Wi-Fi security alerts (for Android and iOS)
• Cloud storage (up to 500 GB)
• Ransomware protection
• And much more

Norton’s phishing protection is particularly impressive. It includes a browser extension that effectively blocks phishing sites and provides detailed information about each blocked site. It also features built-in online banking protection and a secure search engine that color-codes search results based on safety. Additionally, there’s a free Private Browser that integrates multiple security and privacy-enhancing tools.

Norton also offers a free password manager, which generates, stores, and autofills passwords. While it lacks features like password sharing and a built-in TOTP authenticator (which some competitors offer), it handles the basics very well.

The Android and iOS apps are excellent as well, with both versions offering features such as a VPN, spam filter, Wi-Fi security, and web protections. The Android app can even detect suspicious hardware and DNS spoofing attempts, while the iOS version, although less feature-rich, still provides great basic protection.

Norton’s identity theft protection is another standout feature. Its LifeLock service (available in select countries) provides varying levels of protection and reimbursement, including coverage up to $3 million for stolen funds, personal expenses, and legal/experts fees.

The VPN bundled with Norton 360 is one of the best antivirus-integrated VPNs in 2025. It has no data limits and provides access to servers in 35+ countries. You’re protected by 256-bit AES encryption, a no-logs policy, a kill switch, split tunneling, and an ad tracker blocker.

Overall, Norton 360 offers more features than nearly any competitor, and they all function exceptionally well. It undergoes annual audits, adheres to major data privacy regulations, and has apps for all major operating systems (it even worked on a colleague’s Chromebook, despite not being officially supported).

2. Bitdefender Total Security — Best for Lightweight Scanning & a Comprehensive Set of Features

Bitdefender offers a cutting-edge antivirus engine that leverages an extensive malware database, machine learning, and AI to detect and protect against threats more effectively than most competitors.

In my tests, Bitdefender successfully identified and removed every malicious file from my system. The advantage of its cloud-based scanning is that it offloads the processing to Bitdefender’s servers, reducing the impact on your device. During full-system scans, Bitdefender only used 21% of my CPU and less than 1% while running in the background.

However, Bitdefender is more than just a malware scanner — it’s an all-encompassing security suite packed with top-notch features for both computers and mobile devices, including:

• Web protection
• Vulnerability scanner
• System optimizer
• VPN (200 MB daily on most plans)
• Parental controls
• Password manager
• Webcam protection
• Ransomware protection
• Identity theft protection
• And more…

The web protection is impressive, with anti-phishing technology that blocked nearly all phishing sites during my tests. There’s also a tracker blocker to protect your privacy. I really like Safepay, a secure browser for online banking and shopping, and some plans come with Scam Copilot, an AI tool that alerts you to potential scams and provides a chatbot to help identify them. Additionally, Bitdefender’s multi-layer ransomware protection adds a safety layer to your important files to prevent encryption during an attack.

Bitdefender’s vulnerability scanner checks for outdated software, missing Windows updates, and weaknesses in your Wi-Fi network. It then assigns a risk level to each issue and provides solutions. For example, it alerted me to an outdated Opera version, giving me the option to update or remove it.

Bitdefender’s VPN is also one of the best available, providing high-speed access to encrypted servers worldwide. However, unlike Norton’s VPN, Bitdefender’s VPN has daily data limits on all but the highest-tier plans.

Bitdefender offers several affordable plans compatible with all major operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and ChromeOS. It complies with various data privacy regulations like SOC2, HIPAA, and ISO 27001. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus (INR2,590/year) provides many premium features (except webcam protection, parental controls, and the password manager), but it’s limited to Windows. Bitdefender Internet Security (INR3,630/year) adds parental controls, a firewall, and coverage for up to 3 Windows PCs.

My top recommendation is Bitdefender Total Security (INR4,320/year), which covers 5 devices across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Bitdefender Premium Security (INR6,910/year) includes all the features of Total Security, plus Scam Copilot and unlimited VPN access. While Premium Security is more expensive than other options, its VPN is top-notch and makes it worth considering.

3. TotalAV — Best for Ease of Use (Super Beginner-Friendly)

TotalAV provides an excellent antivirus scanner combined with several useful features, all wrapped up in an easy-to-use interface. It’s an ideal choice for beginners, but it also offers enough customization options for more experienced users.

TotalAV’s antivirus scanner is both fast and reliable, achieving nearly perfect malware detection rates. It caught 99% of all the malware I tested, from viruses to ransomware, missing only a few tricky files (which were detected by Norton and Bitdefender). Like Bitdefender, TotalAV’s performance impact during scans was minimal.

TotalAV’s WebShield blocks dangerous websites, and it successfully blocked most risky sites during my testing. The Total Browser gives you a secure browsing experience, blocking ads and unsafe sites. It also notifies you if a page you visit has been involved in a data breach.

Another useful feature is the performance optimizer, which scans for junk files and settings that could slow down your system. It cleaned up more space on my computer than many other competitors.

4. McAfee Total Protection — Best for Online Security & Families

McAfee offers a wide range of online security features, including top-notch malware protection, anti-phishing technology, a password manager, a VPN, and identity theft monitoring. All of these features are simple to use and work effectively across various platforms. McAfee even has a dedicated app for Chromebooks, in addition to mobile coverage.

McAfee’s virus protection is impressive, achieving a perfect 100% malware detection rate during my tests. It successfully blocked and removed a variety of threats, including viruses, trojans, spyware, keyloggers, and rootkits. Its anti-phishing protection is equally strong, preventing me from accessing phishing sites and other risky webpages. McAfee outperformed the built-in protection found in browsers like Chrome and Firefox, as well as many competing antivirus solutions.

In addition to PC coverage, McAfee offers mobile protection through its apps for both iOS and Android. These apps include a VPN, web protection, and a scanner that alerts you about unsafe Wi-Fi networks. One standout feature is Scam Protection, which notifies you about dangerous links in emails, texts, social media, and web browsers.

McAfee’s parental controls are among the best available, offering features like content and app blocking, along with advanced location tracking that provides highly accurate device tracking (far better than Google or Apple’s native device locator tools).

That being said, McAfee did slow down my computer during full-system scans (unlike Norton and Bitdefender). While I could browse the web and use Microsoft Office, running CPU-heavy programs like games was challenging. However, this impact may vary depending on your device, so I recommend testing it yourself since all plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

McAfee’s plans start at INR3,450/year, providing excellent value for the protection it offers. The Essential plan (INR3,450/year) covers up to 5 devices, while the Premium family package (INR6,040/year) adds parental controls and offers unlimited device coverage. There are also Advanced (INR7,770/year) and Ultimate (INR17,260/year) plans that include identity theft coverage up to $1 million, along with additional features.

5. Intego — Best for Comprehensive Mac Protection

Intego is the top choice for macOS antivirus, providing comprehensive protection and optimization tools specifically designed for Mac users. Unlike most antivirus solutions that focus primarily on Windows, Intego specializes in macOS security, offering real-time malware protection, system optimization tools, advanced backup options, and more.

• Real-time malware protection.
• Mac optimization and cleaning tools.
• Advanced Mac backup options.
• Network security options.
• Parental controls.

Intego’s antivirus engine earned a perfect detection rate in my tests, spotting both macOS and PC malware. Its scans are fast, handling over 800,000 files in under two hours, and subsequent scans are even quicker due to Intego’s file caching system, which skips already scanned files (similar to the technology used by Norton).

One feature I particularly like is Intego’s customizable firewall, which monitors both incoming and outgoing network traffic. It adjusts settings based on your environment, whether you’re at home, at work, or using public Wi-Fi.

Intego also provides some great extras, like the ability to scan external drives and iOS devices connected to your Mac. This feature allows you to protect your external devices with Intego’s antivirus, meaning you don’t need separate antivirus software for iOS (though additional apps are required for deeper iOS protection).

Intego’s Mac Premium Bundle X9 plan includes all of the best features, such as disk optimization tools and parental controls. There’s also the Mac Internet Security X9 plan, which lacks optimization tools but still offers excellent antivirus protection. Pricing starts at INR1,730/year, making it slightly more expensive than other options, but it’s well worth it for the specialized Mac protection. All plans cover up to 5 Macs and come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Intego also offers a Windows version, Antivirus for Windows, which detected 100% of malware samples in my tests. This plan includes a VPN, optimization tools, and more, although it’s not as feature-packed as the best antivirus options for Windows.

6. Panda Dome — Best for Flexible Pricing

Panda Dome offers a strong malware scanner, an intuitive interface, and flexible pricing options. While its malware scanner performed reasonably well during testing, detecting 95% of the threats, its real-time protection was able to block all threats I attempted to add to my system.

Panda provides a range of extra features, including:

• Web protections
• Optimization tools
• VPN
• Firewall
• Parental controls
• Password manager
• Dark web monitoring
• File encrypter
• Rescue Kit (free bootable antivirus)

Although these extras aren’t as comprehensive as some other competitors like Norton, they still add significant value. The optimization tools are effective; a quick one-minute scan cleared 1.2 GB of junk from my system. The auto-updater feature is also quite handy.

However, a few features fall short. For instance, the VPN has data limits and doesn’t allow you to choose servers unless you opt for the most expensive plan. The password manager’s auto-fill functionality works well but lacks the advanced features typically found in standalone password managers.

What sets Panda apart is its flexibility. There are various plans to suit different needs, including a decent free plan. Panda Free offers real-time virus protection for Windows, an app scanner for Android, a Rescue Kit, and a limited VPN (1 server, 150 MB/day). Be prepared for regular notifications encouraging you to upgrade if you choose this plan.

The paid plans start with the Essential plan (INR1,950/year), which includes a firewall and Wi-Fi protection. The Advanced plan (INR2,460/year) adds ransomware protection, while the Complete plan (INR3,500/year) includes a password manager and various optimization tools. The Panda Dome Premium plan (INR5,440/year) offers an unlimited-data VPN and 24/7 customer support. All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee and allow you to choose the number of devices to protect.

7. Kaspersky Premium — Best for Online Shopping & Banking

Kaspersky provides top-tier antivirus protection and a variety of excellent bonus features that make it particularly useful for online shopping and banking. Its antivirus engine delivered perfect results during testing, blocking all malware samples.

Some key features of Kaspersky include:

• Anti-phishing protection
• Parental controls
• Webcam protection
• Safe Money secure browser
• VPN (unlimited data)
• Password manager
• Smart Home Monitor

One standout feature is Safe Money, which detects when you’re about to make an online payment or access a banking site. It offers to launch a secure, sandboxed browser to protect you from malware and spyware. Although Bitdefender’s Safepay is slightly faster, Kaspersky’s Safe Money is still an excellent feature for secure financial transactions. Kaspersky also offers a virtual keyboard to protect against keyloggers while making payments online.

The vulnerability scanner quickly identifies weaknesses on your system, such as outdated software, and gives you suggestions on how to address them. During my tests, it found a vulnerability in Firefox that I hadn’t been aware of.

The Smart Home Monitor feature is also a nice touch, allowing you to view a list of all devices connected to your home network. If anything suspicious appears, you can take action to secure your network, like changing your passwords.

Kaspersky offers one free plan and three paid options. The free plan provides basic protection for a single Windows device, but to cover Android, macOS, and iOS devices, you’ll need to upgrade. Among the paid plans, Kaspersky Premium (INR3,320/year) offers the best value. It includes malware scanning, web protection, Safe Money, an unlimited-data VPN, a password manager with unlimited storage, home Wi-Fi monitoring, and one year of Kaspersky’s parental controls for up to one user. You can also choose from plans covering 5, 10, or up to 20 users, depending on the plan and location.

8. Avira Prime — Best for System Optimization

Avira is known for having one of the most robust antivirus engines available, consistently achieving a perfect 100% detection rate in tests. Its technology has even been licensed to several other antivirus programs, including TotalAV. Avira works across a variety of operating systems, including ChromeOS.

Avira Prime stands out not only for its excellent malware protection but also for its impressive system optimization features. Some of the key features of Avira Prime include:

• Privacy and system optimization tools
• VPN
• Password manager

Avira’s system optimization tools are among the best in the industry. Unlike many antivirus programs that offer basic tune-up tools, Avira provides advanced options such as:

• Startup optimizer: Reduced my PC’s startup time by 2 minutes.
• Game booster: Automatically reallocates system resources and halts background processes to boost performance while gaming.
• Junk file cleaner: Removes duplicate, unused, and cached files.

Additionally, Avira Prime offers a 1-click optimization tool that significantly cleaned up my system. It also includes a duplicate file finder, streamlined driver updater, and other helpful features. Because Avira’s antivirus engine runs entirely in the cloud, it doesn’t slow down your system like some other antivirus programs can.

At INR5,180/year, Avira Prime is slightly more expensive than some top-rated antiviruses, but it offers good value considering it includes advanced system optimization, an unlimited-data VPN, and premium mobile apps. Avira also offers a less expensive Internet Security plan at INR3,020/year, but Prime is the only one that includes all the premium features.

If you’re looking for a free option, Avira Free is one of the best free antivirus programs available, offering real-time protection, ransomware protection, and a limited free version of Avira’s VPN.

9. Trend Micro — Best for Secure Web Browsing

Trend Micro offers a solid anti-malware engine, effective diagnostic tools, and a fantastic browser extension that blocks unsafe websites and online scams. While its antivirus scanner performed decently in my tests, detecting most malware types, it wasn’t as effective as top competitors like Norton.

Trend Micro excels in web security. It detected more phishing sites than browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Safari during my tests. It also blocked scam links, malicious content, and misinformation, providing an added layer of protection while browsing.

Key features of Trend Micro include:

• Web protection (phishing, scam sites, malicious code)
• Password manager with 256-bit AES encryption (unlimited storage, password generation, basic auto-fill, and 2FA)
• Ad blocker (though it’s less intuitive than standalone options like 1Password or Dashlane)

Trend Micro’s pricing starts at INR1,730/year. The Trend Micro Maximum Security plan (INR4,310/year) protects up to 5 devices and includes a password manager. The most comprehensive plan, Premium Security Suite (INR4,750/year), covers up to 10 devices and includes identity theft protection and a fully-featured VPN.

10. Malwarebytes — Best for Basic Protection

Malwarebytes is a simple, user-friendly antivirus solution that provides solid protection across all devices and operating systems, including Chromebooks. In my tests, Malwarebytes detected around 95% of malware, which is decent, though not as effective as top competitors like Norton.

Malwarebytes offers some great features, such as:

• Secure browser extension that blocks phishing sites, ads, trackers, and scams
• Exploit protections for zero-day attacks
• VPN with unlimited data and servers in 45+ countries (though it’s not ideal for streaming or torrenting)

One of Malwarebytes’ standout features is its web protection, which successfully blocked the majority of phishing sites I tried visiting. The ad blocker was effective but struggled with video ads. It also keeps a record of all blocked threats, which I found helpful.

However, Malwarebytes lacks certain features, such as a firewall, parental controls, and system optimization tools. Despite these gaps, it’s a solid choice for users looking for a straightforward antivirus program that offers decent protection without many complexities. Malwarebytes starts at INR3,890/year and offers a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Bonus: MacKeeper — Intuitive & Feature-Rich Antivirus for Mac

MacKeeper is a standout antivirus solution designed specifically for Mac. It provides solid malware protection, enhances Apple’s built-in security features, and boasts a user-friendly macOS app.

MacKeeper scored 98% in detecting Mac-specific malware during testing on my MacBook Pro (M2 Chip), which is comparable to top Mac antiviruses like Intego and TotalAV. Its cleanup and optimization tools were effective, removing about 7 GB of junk and duplicate files from my system. One unique feature I appreciated was MacKeeper’s option to delete unwanted email attachments—something I haven’t seen in other antivirus programs.

The VPN included with MacKeeper is secure, fast, and compatible with most streaming services, though I would like more transparency regarding its no-logs policy. MacKeeper could do a better job of clarifying how it handles user data.

However, MacKeeper has some notable limitations. It lacks anti-phishing protection, which is an essential feature for any modern antivirus. Additionally, it doesn’t include a firewall or parental controls, both of which are available with competitors like Intego.

MacKeeper offers several subscription plans, starting at INR4,930/year. The plans are identical in features, with the only difference being the length of the subscription and the number of Mac devices covered (1 to 3).

Testing Methodology: How We Evaluated & Ranked the Best Antivirus Software

To evaluate the antivirus products, I followed a comprehensive and proven methodology. I conducted real-world tests based on several key criteria, such as security, speed, ease of use, value, and customer support. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements I focused on:

Malware Detection & Scanning Capabilities

I ran extensive tests, including real-time protection checks, malware detection tests, and CPU performance assessments. Only antivirus programs that effectively protected against the most advanced malware threats made it to this list. Norton performed the best, but other contenders also showed solid results.

Additional Features & Add-ons

Many antivirus packages come with extra features, but not all are useful. I thoroughly tested each additional feature to ensure it genuinely adds value. Bitdefender stood out with its range of helpful tools, but several other antiviruses also impressed me with their useful extras.

Speed & Efficiency

I evaluated how lightweight and efficient each antivirus was. A good antivirus should protect your device without slowing it down. I tested performance across multiple devices, rewarding products that ran smoothly, even on older systems.

Multi-Platform Support

Top antiviruses should support multiple operating systems. I tested each antivirus across a variety of platforms — Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and ChromeOS — ensuring seamless compatibility. While not every antivirus supported all platforms, most performed excellently across different operating systems.

Value for Money

Antivirus software can be a significant investment. I considered pricing, coverage for multiple devices, web protection, and additional features when assessing value. All the antiviruses on this list offer great value for money.

How to Choose the Best Antivirus for Your Operating System

Selecting the best antivirus for your device requires some thoughtful consideration. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you choose:

Step 1: Understand Your Operating System’s Needs

Each operating system has its own set of vulnerabilities. Make sure the antivirus you choose is compatible with your system and has a strong track record of protecting devices like yours. For example, Norton is excellent for Windows, while Intego is highly recommended for macOS users.

Step 2: Ensure the Antivirus Has the Features You Need

Antivirus programs come with a range of features, but each one offers different tools. Think about how you use your device and which features will be most useful to you, such as ransomware protection, identity theft monitoring, or parental controls.

Step 3: Compare Prices and Subscription Options

Antivirus pricing varies widely depending on the features and subscription length. Be sure to compare plans to ensure you’re getting the best deal without paying for unnecessary extras.

Best Antivirus Picks for Different Operating Systems

• Best for Windows: Norton — offers top-tier protection, rich features, and smooth performance on Windows devices.
• Best for Mac: Intego — designed specifically for macOS, with strong malware protection and optimization tools.
• Best for Android: Norton or Bitdefender — both offer excellent malware and web protection on Android devices.
• Best for iOS: Norton — keeps your iOS devices safe from phishing, adware, and identity theft.
• Best for ChromeOS: Although ChromeOS has built-in security, it’s still vulnerable to online threats. For extra protection, I recommend Bitdefender or TotalAV for Chromebook users.

Quick Guide: How to Use an Antivirus

1. Install from a trusted source: Start by visiting the official website of your chosen antivirus provider. For example, I recommend Norton as a top pick, so let’s use that for the guide.

2. Select a plan that fits your needs: Review all available plans and choose one that best suits your requirements. Be sure to check for a money-back guarantee; for instance, Norton offers a 60-day money-back guarantee across all its plans.

3. Set up your account: After purchasing your subscription, register with the antivirus provider. Enter your details and click “Create Account” to finalize the setup.

4. Run an initial full system scan: Once installed, run a complete system scan to detect any existing threats. While this may take some time, it’s important to thoroughly check your device for malware.

5. Schedule regular scans: In addition to real-time protection (which is typically enabled by default), schedule regular full system scans to ensure that any undetected malware is found.

6. Utilize additional security features: Explore additional tools offered by your antivirus, such as a firewall, web protection, anti-phishing tools, and parental controls. For instance, Norton has a free browser called Private Browser, which enhances your online security on Windows.

7. Stay updated on new features: Keep track of new features or settings that can improve your protection. Norton, for example, provides product and service updates on their website, keeping you informed about the latest developments.

Following these steps will help you get the most out of your antivirus, ensuring your device stays secure from a wide range of online threats.

Built-In vs. Third-Party Antivirus: Which Is Better?

While the built-in antivirus protections on macOS and Windows provide a basic level of defense, they fall short when compared to the comprehensive security offered by third-party antivirus solutions. Although the built-in protections are a good starting point, they don’t offer the same level of defense against advanced threats in 2025.

Windows Users

Windows comes with Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender), which is a basic, free antivirus. While it provides decent protection, it typically scores lower in malware detection compared to premium third-party antivirus options like Norton and Bitdefender. It also lacks useful extras such as performance optimization tools, password managers, dark web monitoring, and more.

When you install a third-party antivirus, Windows Defender generally disables itself. However, its firewall may remain active if the new antivirus doesn’t include one, offering an added layer of protection. Some premium antiviruses, like Malwarebytes, are even designed to work alongside Windows Defender.

macOS Users

Macs have built-in security tools such as web protection, anti-theft features, app review tools, and an app scanner. While these are helpful, they alone aren’t enough to protect against advanced threats like ransomware, spyware, and adware.

For enhanced protection, it’s a good idea to install a premium, Mac-specific antivirus like Intego. Intego offers excellent malware detection, effective cleanup tools, parental controls, and more. Along with installing a reliable antivirus, you should also follow best practices to secure your Mac further.

What Security Threats Can an Antivirus Protect You Against?

A reliable antivirus provides strong protection against a wide variety of security threats. Here are the most common types of threats that it helps to safeguard against:

• Viruses: Malicious software that replicates itself and makes unauthorized changes to your computer, often causing significant damage.

• Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs): Software that can alter your browser settings, inject ads, or engage in other intrusive behaviors. While not necessarily malicious, PUPs are bothersome and can degrade your browsing experience.

• Adware: A type of malware that bombards you with advertisements, sometimes even when you’re offline. Adware can not only disrupt your experience but also collect personal data.

• Spyware: Spyware can range from annoying, targeted ads to more severe threats like keyloggers that steal your passwords or surveillance software that tracks your every move, such as the infamous Pegasus.

• Trojans: Dangerous malware that masquerades as legitimate software. Once activated, trojans can cause widespread damage by replicating across networks, stealing data, and harming devices.

• Worms: Self-replicating viruses that spread automatically, causing immediate damage. Unlike trojans, worms don’t wait to activate—they start infecting systems right away, potentially corrupting files and systems or flooding you with spam.

• Ransomware: A form of malware that locks your files and demands payment (ransom) in exchange for unlocking them. Popular strains like Cl0p and notorious gangs such as Akira target millions of users annually. Antiviruses with ransomware protection, such as Bitdefender, can halt this encryption process to prevent data loss.

• Rootkits: A particularly dangerous type of malware that grants unauthorized access to administrative privileges, allowing cybercriminals to make critical changes to your device without your knowledge.

• Browser Exploits: Many antiviruses, like those on this list, can detect and block suspicious browser activities, preventing hackers from exploiting vulnerabilities to change your browser settings or carry out malicious actions. This includes threats like JavaScript injections, such as SocGholish.

• Phishing Attempts: Phishing is a method used by criminals to trick you into revealing personal information, such as login credentials. Antiviruses are equipped to detect these attacks by identifying known malicious websites and flagging suspicious emails or links.

In short, a high-quality antivirus offers comprehensive protection against all major online threats. While top-tier antiviruses are highly effective, it’s important to remain cautious online, as no security solution is 100% foolproof.

Why We Still Recommend Kaspersky

Kaspersky has been embroiled in controversy due to its ties to Russia, especially after the U.S. government banned the sale of Kaspersky’s antivirus software in July 2024. The ban prevents new sales, software updates, and licensing of Kaspersky products after September 29, 2024.

This has raised concerns among users about the safety and reliability of Kaspersky’s software. In light of this, we’ve revisited the company’s history and product offerings to evaluate the potential risks.

Despite the controversy, we maintain that there is no concrete evidence suggesting that Kaspersky is unsafe. In 2017, Kaspersky launched its Global Transparency Initiative, which involved moving its data storage centers to Switzerland and opening Transparency Centers in various countries, including Switzerland, Spain, Canada, Brazil, and Malaysia. These centers regularly assess Kaspersky’s source code and software updates. The company has also passed the Service Organization Control for Service Organizations (SOC 2) Type 1 audit.

Additionally, Kaspersky has uncovered numerous cases of cyber espionage, including actions by both Russia and the U.S. Its research team is highly respected in the cybersecurity community.

For now, we believe Kaspersky remains safe to use. However, if you’re concerned about the potential risks or are considering alternatives, there are other excellent options available, including Norton and Bitdefender.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best antivirus software for Windows 11?

Norton 360 is my top recommendation for most Windows 11 users. It provides outstanding antivirus protection, along with excellent additional features like phishing protection, Wi-Fi protection, a password manager, a firewall, and a VPN. That said, all the antiviruses on this list are compatible with Windows 11 and even support older versions like Windows 7 and 8.

What’s the best antivirus with a firewall?

Norton is the top antivirus with a firewall. Its security features, including its customizable firewall, make it a standout. It provides comprehensive protection, including ARP and DNS spoofing protection, SSL man-in-the-middle attack detection, and port access detection. Norton’s firewall is great for both beginners and advanced users due to its flexibility and effectiveness.

Do I really need antivirus in 2025?

Yes, if you use the internet, antivirus protection is essential. Most devices, including Windows, Mac, and mobile devices, already come with basic antivirus protection. However, top-tier antivirus software goes above and beyond with features like full-suite anti-malware engines, ransomware protection, webcam protection, and more. The question isn’t whether you need antivirus — you do — but whether you need advanced features such as a VPN, password manager, and device optimization tools.

Is it worth paying for antivirus software?

Yes, paying for antivirus software is worth it. While free options like Microsoft Defender have improved, they still lack critical protections needed in 2025. For example, many free antiviruses don’t offer real-time protection, ransomware protection, or VPN features. Premium antiviruses like Norton provide comprehensive coverage across all your devices and come with extra features that enhance security and convenience.

How much does a good antivirus cost?

Prices vary. Norton, our top-rated antivirus, starts at INR 2,590/year, with more expensive plans offering additional features like dark web monitoring, a VPN, and identity theft protection. Alternatively, you can get solid protection from brands like TotalAV starting at INR 1,640/year.

What’s the best antivirus for ransomware protection?

Norton offers the best ransomware protection. Their Data Protector tool is highly customizable and provides real-time protection against ransomware. In my tests, Norton successfully blocked a ransomware simulator even when it was whitelisted, showing its exceptional ransomware detection capability.

What is the cheapest antivirus software?

Bitdefender is one of the most affordable antiviruses, starting at INR 2,590/year. Despite the lower price, it offers excellent protection. Many top antivirus brands also run regular promotions that can significantly reduce the cost of their subscriptions. For example, Norton is currently offering a 58% discount on its plans.

Be cautious with very cheap or free antiviruses, as they may not provide sufficient protection, leaving your devices at risk. Always choose a trusted antivirus, even if it’s at a lower cost.

What’s the best antivirus software for Mac?

Intego is my top recommendation for Mac users. It’s designed specifically for macOS and performed excellently in my tests, offering features like real-time protection and a customizable network firewall. Many other antiviruses, like Norton 360, also offer strong protection for Mac, though some features may be limited due to Apple’s restrictions.

Can I have more than one antivirus on my computer?

While it’s possible to install more than one antivirus, it’s not recommended. Running multiple antivirus programs can cause conflicts between them, reducing their effectiveness and potentially allowing threats to slip through. It’s best to choose one high-quality antivirus and stick with it.

Will an antivirus slow down my device?

Antivirus software may cause some slowdown, especially during a full system scan. However, the best antivirus programs minimize this impact, allowing you to continue using your device without interruption. For example, Bitdefender had no noticeable impact on device performance during testing, even when streaming video, playing games, and working online. Additionally, many top antiviruses include system optimization tools to help improve your device’s s