9 Best Free Antivirus Software for Windows: There are plenty of free antivirus programs for Windows, but only a handful truly offer strong protection. I tested dozens to find out which ones effectively defend against Windows-based malware as well as other online threats like phishing and social engineering attacks. I also evaluated each antivirus based on how well it protects your privacy and how smoothly it works with Windows, including how it integrates with Windows Defender.

That said, it’s important to understand that free antivirus software comes with limitations. That’s why I usually recommend investing in a premium antivirus that offers complete protection — including tools like a VPN, dark web monitoring, and a password manager. Norton 360, for example, includes all of these and is currently rated as the top antivirus for 2025.

Still, using a high-quality free antivirus is far better than going without any protection. I found several strong free options that enhance Windows’s built-in defenses and even add features not included with Windows Defender.

1. Norton — Best Overall Antivirus for Windows in 2025

Norton is my top pick for Windows antivirus protection in 2025. While it doesn’t offer a completely free version, it frequently provides free trials and comes with a risk-free 60-day money-back guarantee — giving you two full months to decide if it’s right for you. With a powerful malware engine, a wide range of features, and plans that support all major operating systems, Norton delivers excellent value.

Although Norton doesn’t have a free antivirus plan, it does offer Power Eraser, a free standalone tool designed to eliminate even the most stubborn malware infections on Windows. Power Eraser can run full system scans and detect rootkits and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs/PUAs). However, since it doesn’t offer real-time protection or active scanning, it’s best used as a recovery tool — not as your primary antivirus.

In my tests, Norton detected every malware sample — from basic viruses to advanced threats like rootkits. It also includes exceptional phishing protection, a customizable smart firewall, and specific protections for online banking and shopping.

Disclaimer

Key features include:

• Unlimited VPN – Fast speeds, works with streaming platforms like Netflix, and includes features such as Tor compatibility and split-tunneling.
• Password Manager – Securely stores, generates, and auto-fills passwords, with password health checks included.
• Parental Controls – Blocks inappropriate content, sets screen time limits, and monitors activity on platforms like YouTube and Hulu. Norton ranks #1 on our list of top antivirus solutions with parental controls and #2 among standalone parental control apps.
• Private Browser – Helps protect your privacy and security while you browse.
• System Optimization Tools – Cleans up unnecessary files, improves startup speed, and defragments your hard drive.
• Dark Web Monitoring – Scans the dark web, breach databases, and credit reports for signs of compromised data. What sets Norton apart is that it uses real human agents to explore dark web forums, helping it detect breaches that other antivirus tools might miss.
• Norton’s user interface is intuitive, and it works seamlessly with Windows Defender — no need to tweak settings. It also features a gaming mode that runs silently in the background to avoid interruptions during gameplay.

Among all of Norton’s plans, Norton 360 Deluxe offers the best value. With our special 58% discount, you can get it for just INR 4,320 per year. Norton also offers LifeLock plans in certain regions, starting at INR 8,630 per year, which add identity theft protection along with up to $3 million in insurance and legal support. All plans come with a 60-day money-back guarantee, so you can try them out without any risk.

2. Bitdefender Antivirus Free for Windows — Lightweight Protection With Advanced Malware & Web Security

Bitdefender Antivirus Free for Windows stands out as one of the best truly free antiviruses available. In my tests, its malware scanner achieved a 100% detection rate, successfully identifying all types of threats — including viruses, trojans, ransomware, and even hard-to-remove rootkits. Since Bitdefender relies on cloud-based scanning, the bulk of its processing happens off-device, which means it has a minimal impact on your system’s performance. Even during full system scans, I didn’t experience any noticeable slowdowns.

Bitdefender also excels in anti-phishing protection. It blocked a large number of fake and malicious websites that slipped past Chrome and Firefox’s built-in protections, as well as those missed by other antivirus software. Among all the brands I tested, only Bitdefender and Norton earned perfect scores for phishing protection.

One downside of Bitdefender’s free version is the lack of additional features. It delivers top-tier malware and real-time protection, plus solid ransomware defense that works well alongside Windows BitLocker — but that’s about it. To get access to tools like a VPN, device optimization features, firewall, password manager, and parental controls, you’ll need to upgrade to one of Bitdefender’s premium plans. Just note that most of Bitdefender’s VPNs come with strict data limits — unlike Norton, which includes unlimited VPN data with most plans.

Bitdefender’s premium plans are reasonably priced. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Antivirus Plus: Covers 3 Windows devices for INR 2,590/year.
• Internet Security: Includes more features and covers 3 Windows PCs for INR 3,630/year.
• Premium Security: Offers complete protection (including unlimited VPN) for up to 10 devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android — all for INR 6,910/year.

All Bitdefender plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try them risk-free. Right now, there’s even a 51% discount on Bitdefender Internet Security if you act quickly.

3. Panda Free Antivirus for Windows — Strong Malware Protection With Handy Extras

Panda Free Antivirus is a lightweight, secure, and user-friendly antivirus for Windows. During my testing, its malware scanner detected more adware, spyware, and ransomware than Windows Defender. Its real-time protection also performed impressively, stopping most threats before they could cause any harm.

A standout feature is Panda’s Rescue Kit, which lets you create a bootable antivirus USB drive to clean up severely infected PCs — a great solution if your system is so compromised that it won’t boot. While you could do something similar using Microsoft’s tools, Panda was much better at detecting malware during my rescue tests.

Another useful feature is gaming mode. Panda automatically suppresses pop-ups when you’re playing games or watching videos in full screen — though Norton still leads in this area, especially with its gamer-focused performance boosts.

Panda also includes a free VPN, which offers good speeds but is limited to 150 MB/day and only one server location. This is slightly better than what Avira’s free VPN offers (1 GB/month), but it’s still not enough for streaming or downloading large files. If you want unlimited VPN data, you’ll need to upgrade or look into one of the top free VPN services.

To unlock the full set of Panda features — including an unlimited VPN, firewall, advanced anti-ransomware, phishing protection, system tuning tools, password manager, and basic parental controls — you can go for the Panda Dome Premium plan at INR 5,440/year. Like Bitdefender, all Panda’s paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

4. TotalAV — Best for Ease of Use, Ideal for Beginners

TotalAV is a user-friendly antivirus solution that delivers impressive malware detection. In my tests, it successfully identified and removed more malware types — including viruses, trojans, ransomware, and spyware — than many competitors, even outperforming Windows Defender. Since it uses cloud-based scanning, it runs efficiently in the background with minimal impact on system performance.

While TotalAV no longer offers a free version, it does include a 30-day money-back guarantee with all annual plans. Plus, it frequently offers big discounts for first-year users, making it one of the most budget-friendly paid antivirus options. For what it offers, I believe it’s worth spending a few bucks — especially considering its balance of strong security and excellent usability.

TotalAV’s interface is sleek and intuitive. Everything is neatly organized in a minimalist dashboard that’s perfect for beginners. I found it easy to navigate and use all of its tools. It also integrates smoothly with Windows — automatically disabling Defender’s real-time protection to prevent conflicts.

In addition to real-time threat protection, TotalAV includes:

• Device optimization tools to improve performance
• Ad blocker
• Secure browser for safer web activity
• VPN with unlimited data — our top-rated antivirus-bundled VPN, supporting streaming and P2P
• Password manager for secure login storage

The VPN is particularly solid — it works with major streaming platforms and supports torrenting on most servers outside the U.S. While it isn’t quite as fast or feature-rich as top standalone VPNs like ExpressVPN, it still holds its own.

TotalAV’s pricing starts at INR 1,640/year for coverage on 5 devices. The best value, though, is the Total Security plan, which protects 8 devices and unlocks all premium features for INR 4,230/year. Every plan is covered by a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.

5. Avast One Basic — Strong Free Antivirus With Handy Privacy Features

Avast One Basic is a well-rounded free antivirus for Windows, offering more features than most other free options. It’s part of Avast’s newer product line and includes extras like a free VPN, performance tools, and web protection. In my malware tests, Avast One Basic detected 100% of the samples — an excellent result for a free product.

One standout feature is Privacy Advisor, which helps improve your online security. It guides you through adjusting your privacy settings on popular websites and services — something that Windows Defender doesn’t offer.

While the VPN included in the free version has limitations — such as not allowing server selection and lacking a strict no-logs policy — it’s still a decent inclusion. You get up to 5 GB of data per week, which is more than most other free VPNs provide.

Other free features include:

• Firewall — Monitors and blocks malicious traffic more intuitively than the default Windows firewall.
• Web protection — Blocks access to dangerous websites.
• Network Inspector — Scans for vulnerabilities on your Wi-Fi network.

The only real drawback is the interface — it’s slightly cluttered and less user-friendly than competitors like Norton or TotalAV.

It’s also important to note that Avast One Basic is only available in select countries: the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, Austria, Switzerland, France, Ireland, and Germany. If you’re outside these regions, you’ll need to use Avast’s standard free antivirus, which shares many of the same features.

For those interested in more protection, Avast’s premium plans start at INR 2,700/year. The highest-tier plan, Avast One Platinum, includes identity protection, social media monitoring, and credit monitoring for INR 10,350/year. All paid plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

6. Avira Free Security for Windows — Lightweight Cloud-Based Antivirus With Great System Tools

Avira Free Security delivers powerful malware protection using a cloud-based engine that’s both lightweight and fast. Unlike Microsoft Defender, it uses minimal system resources, so you can run demanding programs even during scans without noticeable slowdowns. In my tests, Avira caught every piece of malware I’d planted, performing impressively across the board.

The interface is clean and intuitive, and the software includes a generous suite of completely free bonus tools, such as:

• A firewall
• Safe Shopping browser extension
• Privacy and performance optimization tools
• A VPN (with a 1 GB monthly cap)
• Password manager
• Speed booster
• File shredder

The Safe Shopping browser extension is a standout feature — it blocks malicious websites, prevents tracking, removes annoying ads, and even suggests better deals while you shop. It works on all major browsers and is one of the most useful add-ons available in a free antivirus.

I was also impressed with Avira’s privacy and performance tools, which cleaned out junk files, cookies, and even tweaked hidden settings to reduce data leaks. However, some of the more advanced optimization tools are only available with a paid subscription.

One drawback is the VPN’s strict 1 GB monthly data limit, and you can’t choose your server location. In contrast, competitors like Panda offer more flexibility on their free VPNs.

For unlimited VPN access and additional premium tools, Avira Prime is available at INR 5,180/year, and it supports multiple devices. All annual plans come with a 60-day money-back guarantee.

7. Malwarebytes Free — Basic Antivirus With Powerful Browser Protection

If you’re looking for a straightforward and minimalistic antivirus, Malwarebytes Free is a solid pick. In my tests, it detected about 95% of threats, though it did miss a few stealthy ones that Bitdefender and Norton caught.

Aside from basic virus scanning, Malwarebytes includes Browser Guard, a helpful extension that blocks ads, trackers, malware, phishing sites, and potentially unwanted programs (PUPs). It performed well, stopping around 90% of malicious websites I tried — a notable improvement over Windows’s default protections.

You also get free dark web monitoring. Just by entering your email address, Malwarebytes was able to show me all exposed personal information linked to data breaches — a surprisingly comprehensive and visual report.

However, Malwarebytes Free doesn’t include real-time protection, leaving you reliant on Windows Defender for ongoing security. Features like a firewall, Wi-Fi security, and system optimization are missing, even in paid versions.

If you want full protection, Malwarebytes Standard covers 2 devices for INR 3,890/year, while Malwarebytes Plus adds a VPN for INR 5,180/year. Both include a 60-day money-back guarantee, and the free version comes with a 14-day trial of the premium features.

8. AVG AntiVirus Free — Strong Scanner With Solid Security Tools

AVG AntiVirus Free is a dependable antivirus solution with a user-friendly design. It shares much of its technology with Avast (they’re owned by the same parent company), but AVG has its own identity and includes a few standout tools.

The malware scanner performed well, identifying 100% of threats during my tests. It offers multiple scan types, including a thorough Deep Scan and a Boot-Time Scan, which was faster than Windows’s Offline Scan. The Smart Scan, however, was a bit underwhelming and missed a few threats.

AVG’s free features include:

• A solid firewall (better than Windows Defender’s)
• HackCheck, which alerts you if your email has been compromised
• Behavior Shield, which detects new threats by monitoring suspicious behavior
• File Shield, which blocks malicious files on execution

Unfortunately, the Web Shield and ransomware protections weren’t as effective — phishing protection was inconsistent, and my ransomware simulator bypassed the defenses entirely.

If you want stronger protection, AVG Internet Security is available starting at INR 2,700/year, and it includes webcam protection, spyware defenses, and stronger ransomware security. For more features like system cleanup and a VPN, AVG Ultimate is available for INR 4,840/year. Both offer 30-day free trials and a money-back guarantee.

9. ZoneAlarm — Reliable Antivirus With a Free Firewall

ZoneAlarm Free Antivirus is a capable antivirus with the added benefit of a robust firewall. It’s straightforward to use and includes real-time protection, automatic updates, and solid customer support — even for free users. Upon installation, it integrates smoothly with Windows, disabling Defender as needed.

In my malware tests, ZoneAlarm caught all threats, though the scan took longer than others and noticeably slowed down my system. If your device is on the older side, a cloud-based tool like Bitdefender might be a better fit.

ZoneAlarm’s firewall is its standout feature — offering two-way protection by monitoring both incoming and outgoing traffic. It successfully defended against simulated network attacks in my testing.

However, the free version lacks web protection, leaving you vulnerable to phishing and online threats. Even ZoneAlarm’s paid web protection didn’t perform as well as competitors like Norton or Bitdefender.

ZoneAlarm Pro Antivirus + Firewall is priced at INR 2,160/year for one PC, and the Extreme Security NextGen version, which includes mobile protection and ransomware defense, is INR 3,020/year.

Testing Methodology: How I Compared & Ranked the Best Free Windows Antivirus Software

To put together this list of top antivirus options for Windows, I followed a strict testing protocol designed to evaluate each product’s real-world performance. Every antivirus on this list was thoroughly tested and met high standards across the following areas:

• Malware Detection Performance: I ran full system scans and other available scan types, carefully recording how well each antivirus identified different threats — including viruses, trojans, spyware, ransomware, rootkits, and keyloggers. Only those with excellent detection rates for both known and zero-day threats made the cut.
• System Performance & Speed: I tested how much each antivirus affected my system during scans and regular use. I kept an eye on CPU and memory usage through Task Manager and ran intensive applications while each antivirus was active. Bitdefender stood out here as the lightest, with almost no performance impact.
• Features & Tools: Free antiviruses that go beyond the basics earned higher marks. I looked for extras like password managers, VPNs, system optimization tools, browser protection, and more. Avira, for instance, offers free system tune-up tools, while Panda includes a free VPN.
• Windows Integration: A good antivirus should work seamlessly with Windows. I tested how well each one disabled overlapping features in Windows Defender and ensured smooth, automatic integration with the OS. Every antivirus here runs smoothly without requiring complicated setup.
• Truly Free or Just a Trial?: Many antivirus products market themselves as free, but some are just trial versions or bombard users with ads and upsells. I made sure all listed options are genuinely free — not just temporary demos. While TotalAV doesn’t have a free version, it does offer a full refund within 30 days, which lets you try it risk-free.
• Upgrade Costs: If you decide to upgrade to a paid plan for more features, the pricing matters. I avoided listing any product with overpriced premium versions. All the antivirus tools here offer great value with fairly priced plans for the added security they deliver.

Free Antivirus: Pros, Cons & What You Should Know

While free antivirus tools can offer decent protection, they come with limitations — and not all of them are safe. Many free antivirus programs:

• Lack key features like real-time scanning, anti-phishing protection, firewalls, and dark web monitoring
• Are poorly maintained or riddled with ads
• Or worse — are malware in disguise

Because Windows is the most targeted OS by hackers, using a low-quality or unsafe antivirus can leave your system even more vulnerable.

Yes, Microsoft Defender comes pre-installed and does a decent job, but it still lags behind premium tools like Norton or Bitdefender in terms of malware detection and features.

Why Premium Antivirus Software Is Worth It

Top-tier antivirus programs go far beyond just scanning for malware. They include advanced security technologies like:

• AI-based threat detection
• Real-time protection against ransomware and zero-day threats
• Malicious website filtering
• Identity theft monitoring
• VPNs for encrypted browsing (like TotalAV’s high-speed VPN)
• Password managers (Norton’s is a great example)
• System optimization tools (Avira’s are especially effective)

With premium antivirus software, you’re not just blocking malware — you’re securing your entire digital life.

Free vs. Paid Antivirus — Which One Should You Choose?

Free tools like Bitdefender Free and Norton Power Eraser are great for basic protection. They offer strong malware scanning and work well as lightweight alternatives.

But for comprehensive online safety, premium antiviruses are the better choice. They combine essential protections — like malware scanning — with critical extras: VPNs, password managers, parental controls, and more.

If you take your security seriously, the small yearly investment in a premium antivirus could make all the difference in avoiding online threats, data breaches, or even identity theft.

Tips for Staying Safe Online in 2025

Even with a premium antivirus, practicing smart online habits is key to keeping your devices and personal data secure — and if you’re relying on a free antivirus, these habits become even more important. Here are some essential tips to help you stay protected:

• Keep Your Software Up to Date: Regular updates fix security flaws that hackers often exploit. Many premium antivirus programs, like Avira, come with built-in vulnerability scanners that flag outdated apps and can even update them automatically. If you’re not using such a tool, make it a habit to manually check for and install updates for all your apps and operating system.
• Be Smart About Downloads: Only download files or programs from trusted websites, and be cautious with email attachments — even if they come from someone you know. If something seems off or unexpected, verify with the sender before opening it. Most paid antivirus programs offer real-time protection that blocks risky downloads, but if you’re using a free version without this feature, it’s up to you to be extra careful.
• Stick to HTTPS Websites: Always make sure the websites you visit use HTTPS (not just HTTP). HTTPS encrypts your data, helping to prevent eavesdropping by cybercriminals. Many antiviruses, including Norton, have browser protection tools that alert you about unsafe websites and block potentially harmful ones before they load.

Free Antivirus Software You Should Avoid

Not all free antivirus programs are trustworthy — some are ineffective, outdated, or even outright dangerous. Here are a few you should steer clear of in 2025:

• Wolfram Antivirus: This is outright malware disguised as antivirus software. It’s a scam that not only infects your system but may also trick you into paying for fake features.
• Total Antivirus 2020: Don’t be fooled by the professional-sounding name. This software uses fear tactics to convince users to upgrade, despite offering weak protection — and it might actually harm your device.
• Spybot Search & Destroy: Once a popular tool, Spybot hasn’t kept up with modern threats. Its malware detection in 2025 is well below average, and its confusing interface spreads features across multiple apps, making it difficult to use effectively.
• ClamAV: While ClamAV works fairly well on Linux systems, it’s not a good fit for Windows. It lacks essential features, isn’t user-friendly, and Windows support is limited at best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the catch with free antivirus software?

There’s always a trade-off with free antivirus programs. While they don’t charge you upfront, you often “pay” in other ways — like limited protection, frequent ads, or constant upgrade prompts. Free versions typically offer just the basics, leaving key areas of your system vulnerable. Antivirus companies use this as a way to encourage you to upgrade to a paid plan.

If you only use your computer for light activities like browsing or word processing, a free antivirus might be enough. But if you store any sensitive data, such as financial or personal information, investing in a full-featured antivirus suite is a much safer option.

Why not just stick with Windows Defender?

Microsoft Defender (formerly Windows Defender) does a decent job and is better than many free third-party antivirus tools. However, it lacks advanced features found in top free programs — things like phishing protection, tracking blocker tools, and breach detection.

Many of the free antivirus options on our list outperform Defender in areas like real-time protection and web security, making them a smarter choice if you’re looking for something more robust without paying.

Can I run Windows Defender alongside another antivirus?

Technically, yes — but it’s not recommended. Running two antivirus engines at once can lead to conflicts, slow performance, or missed threats. Most third-party antivirus programs automatically disable certain components of Defender upon installation to avoid these issues. It’s best to let them do this so your system doesn’t run into any problems.

Is free antivirus software really safe?

Yes — as long as you’re using a product from a reputable company. All the antivirus tools listed here are from trusted brands and are safe to use. The main difference between free and paid versions is access to premium features like VPNs, password managers, parental controls, and priority customer support.

What’s the best free antivirus in 2025?

Every free antivirus comes with some limitations, but Bitdefender is currently one of the best free options available. It offers excellent malware detection, real-time protection, and lightweight performance. That said, if you want full protection — including identity theft monitoring, dark web alerts, and VPN access — a premium option like Norton is worth considering. Norton offers excellent value, starting at just INR2,590 per year, and comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Are there truly 100% free antivirus programs?

Yes — some antivirus programs offer completely free versions. These typically include solid malware protection, but lack premium features like unlimited VPN usage, advanced threat detection, or identity protection. Bitdefender Free, for example, provides excellent core security at no cost, but for full-featured protection, a paid plan is the better choice.

Is a free antivirus good enough for everyday use?

That depends on your needs. If you only browse the web occasionally and don’t store much personal data, a reputable free antivirus should suffice. However, for those who shop online, handle sensitive information, or want added peace of mind, premium antivirus software provides more comprehensive protection.

What kinds of malware most commonly affect Windows users?

Trojans and adware are the most widespread threats for Windows PCs. Trojans often pose as legitimate files (.exe, .doc, etc.) and can allow hackers access to your system or data. Adware, on the other hand, floods you with unwanted pop-ups and tracking.

Because malware is constantly evolving, it’s crucial to use antivirus software with a frequently updated threat database. Norton, for example, keeps its malware definitions constantly refreshed, so you’re always protected against new threats.

Will Windows allow me to install another free antivirus?

Yes! Once you install a third-party antivirus, Windows automatically disables Microsoft Defender to avoid conflicts. And if you uninstall the third-party program later, Defender will reactivate on its own.

If you’re planning to switch, it’s worth going for a premium antivirus suite — you’ll get stronger security and more features than you would with either Defender or a basic free tool.

Can I use free antivirus software for my business?

Technically, yes — but it’s not recommended. Free antivirus programs usually lack the advanced protections and support that businesses need. They often come with usage limitations, minimal real-time defenses, and no centralized management tools.

For business use, it’s far better to go with a professional solution like Bitdefender for Business, which offers robust protection, dedicated support, and management features tailored for teams and networks.