This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.
Only fearless people can afford to use a computer or smartphone without an antivirus. On the Internet, every second or third page, if it does not download malware, then transfers to phishing sites. And antivirus will help save your computer and protect confidential information.
But there are plenty of antiviruses too. We have compiled a rating of the 12 best software products that will definitely protect your computer from external threats.
What a good antivirus can do
The main task of antivirus software is, of course, to protect your computer from malware. But the functionality of comprehensive Internet security solutions is not limited to this.
Web screen and web page analysis
Most viruses get onto a computer from the Internet - after downloading a malicious file or simply when opening an infected page. The web screen prevents the download of such software from entering, acting as an "additional layer" of the firewall built into the operating system.
Payment protection
Payment protection tools prevent the interception of bank card data entered by users when shopping online. It also prevents phishing and prevents unnecessary spending with hidden accounts.
Parental control
The Parental Control tool filters and blocks content that may be unsafe for a child - shocking images, pornography, and other materials. In addition, it can limit the time that the kid spends at the computer.
Password vault
The Password Vault tool is designed to record authorization data on sites in a special secure container. It helps not to remember multiple logins and passwords - just set one master code.
Maintaining confidentiality
Privacy tools encrypt files in special storage and delete cookies from the browser. They also protect against phishing and block unauthorized access to personal information.
Rating of the best antiviruses
| Nomination | a place | Name of product | rating |
| Best Free Antivirus Programs | 1 | 4.9 | |
| 2 | 4.8 | ||
| 3 | 4.7 | ||
| The best paid antivirus programs for Windows | 1 | 4.9 | |
| 2 | 4.9 | ||
| 3 | 4.8 | ||
| 4 | 4.7 | ||
| 5 | 4.6 | ||
| The best antivirus programs for Android | 1 | 4.9 | |
| 2 | 4.8 | ||
| 3 | 4.7 | ||
| 4 | 4.7 |
Best Free Antivirus Programs
Why first place: Maximum functionality even in the free version.
Description: The top-rated free antivirus Avast is comparable in popularity only to the built-in Windows 10 "Defender". Lightweight and well-designed, it does not load the computer and shows notifications no more than once every 3-4 days. At the same time, Avast works - two engines are protected from viruses at once: offline, which verifies the signatures of malware against the database, and online, which sends unknown files to the "cloud" for verification. There is also heuristic analysis that protects against zero-day threats.
Scanning engines check hard drives, passwords used, network connectivity, and program behavior. Antivirus analyzes active files and therefore prevents malware from entering your computer from downloads, from flash drives or from keygens. And the automatically activated game mode turns off all notifications, including system and third-party programs, for uninterrupted gameplay.
Advantages
Takes up to 50 MB of RAM during operation;
Three protection engines, including preventive heuristic analysis;
Game mode with notifications turned off.
disadvantages
Full web screen only in the paid version;
The license must be renewed every year, after two or three months of "pause" it cannot be extended;
Requires a permanent and reliable internet connection during installation.
Why second place: Three scan engines, low computer load, but embedded ads.
Description: 360 Total Security is the "Swiss knife" among antiviruses. It uses the largest number of engines in the rating - four. These are offline Avira and Bitdefender, AI-based 360 QVMII and cloud scanner. The engines protect against known threats by comparing virus signatures and against unknown ones by analyzing program behavior.
It also protects against ransomware, keyloggers, and system modifications. Suspicious apps run in the sandbox. Antivirus downloads critical Windows updates to protect against system vulnerabilities, checks the security of the wireless network, and prevents the interception of payment information when shopping online.
Also, 360 Total Security has a built-in file shredder, operating system cleaning and optimization tools, driver update mode and a scheduler.
Advantages
Four antivirus engines that can be turned on and off;
Additional functions;
Why third place: Free VPN and minimal system load, but limited functionality.
Description: Panda Free Antivirus is the only antivirus in the rating that offers a free VPN connection. True, the volume of transmitted traffic is limited to 150 megabytes per day, but this is enough for most purchases on the Internet or access to blocked sites.
The antivirus engine uses a cloud signature comparison technique. This minimizes the load on the computer. Panda protects against "new" viruses because the cloud signatures are updated hourly. The antivirus pays special attention to protecting against viruses that get from USB drives, so it is recommended to install it on public computers.
In the antivirus, you can create a bootable cleaning flash drive that removes viruses from blocked computers - for example, those that "picked up" ransomware banners. Like Avast, Panda Free Antivirus supports a game mode with notifications turned off, including system notifications.
Advantages
Free VPN;
Constant updates of cloud signatures;
disadvantages
Advanced protection modes are available only in paid versions;
The volume of traffic transmitted via VPN is limited to 150 megabytes per day;
Reduced protection level when disconnected from the Internet.
The best paid antivirus programs for Windows
Why First Place: Protection with Hivemind and Artificial Intelligence.
Description: Avira antivirus uses three technologies to protect your computer from malware - comparison with a daily updated signature database, "collective intelligence" to analyze the behavior of programs and artificial intelligence to heuristically scan files on the hard drive.
Avira is the only antivirus in the ranking that effectively fights against ransomware using a heuristic analysis tool. It also scans external devices connected to the computer for infection, protects confidential and personal data, blocks DNS spoofing and the launch of banking Trojans for safe purchases.
Avira's Web Shield analyzes the activity of the network ports directly, blocking malware even before it is loaded into the computer's cache. Therefore, it also prevents the computer from being included in botnets or illegal banking transaction nodes.
Advantages
Antivirus uses artificial intelligence and collective intelligence to protect itself;
Scans directly for network ports, not downloaded data;
Effectively fights against encryption programs.
disadvantages
Only part of the antivirus functions work without an Internet connection;
Support in English only;
High cost.
Why Runner Up: Multi-layered ransomware protection, remote control, and VPN - albeit with limited traffic.
Description: In Bitdefender Internet Security, the emphasis is not on protecting against classic viruses, but on preventing theft of confidential, personal and banking information. However, it also copes with the destruction of malware, including ransomware. Antivirus protects against worms, Trojans, zero-day vulnerabilities, rootkits and spyware, including keyloggers.
Additionally, it protects against phishing by checking the compliance of certificates and DNS of opened sites; from theft of banking data; from spying via webcam and even from fraudulent activities. Autopilot technology monitors computer behavior and some user settings to prevent potential security threats. Photon mode tweaks the antivirus to minimize the load on the operating system.
Advantages
Maximum protection thanks to offline and online technologies;
Many proprietary technologies: Autopilot, Photon, remote control;
Multilevel protection against theft of bank data.
disadvantages
Limited VPN;
Difficulty in setting up (if you still want to set up, and not use "out of the box").
Why third place: Many protective functions, but high load on the system.
Description: What is the rating of antiviruses, and without Kaspersky Internet Security? This comprehensive internet security solution protects your computer in two ways - by checking file signatures offline and by sending suspicious programs to the cloud. But its main advantage is a sandbox, an isolated environment for running applications.
Built-in web screen protects against fake sites and phishing. It is complemented by a browser extension that checks links before they are opened.
Two-level purchase protection prevents the theft of bank card data and other payment information both on phishing sites and on pages with spoofed DNS and SSL certificates. If necessary, you can launch the browser in maximum protection mode.
The antivirus has a built-in parental control mode that filters the downloaded content and, if necessary, blocks the use of the computer if the child spends a lot of time on it.
Advantages
Powerful anti-virus engines;
Protection for Mac;
Parental control.
disadvantages
Few additional features;
Sometimes there are false positives.
Why the fourth place: The most expensive, but with a unique support function from specialists.
Description: Norton Security is the only antivirus in the rating, the developers of which give a 100% guarantee to remove malware from your computer. It is expressed in remote technical support. If the antivirus fails to remove, Norton will take care of it. If they turn out to be powerless, the money for the subscription will be refunded.
The antivirus protects against malware penetrating your computer from the Internet and offline, increases the safety of purchases, and supports parental control. The backup function makes backups of important information to external media and to the branded protected "cloud" with a volume of 25 GB.
Included with the antivirus comes Norton WiFi Privacy, a program that encrypts data when connected to open wireless networks. This protects against sniffing - the interception of personal information, logins, passwords and bank card numbers on public Wi-Fi.
Advantages
100% virus protection guarantee;
Regular updates of the signature database;
Norton WiFi Privacy included.
disadvantages
One of the most expensive antiviruses;
Difficulty in installation and removal;
Why fifth place: Basic level of protection, but the lowest price.
Description: Trend Micro Internet Security is the only antivirus in the ranking with a subscription price of less than RUB 1,000 per year. For this money, the user gets basic protection against Internet vulnerabilities and offline threats.
The main feature of the antivirus is the Folder Shield function, which blocks access to folders with confidential information for unauthorized applications. Trend Micro IS also offers enhanced privacy protection, especially for those posted on social media. It analyzes the information posted there and makes recommendations for removing or hiding some information.
The antivirus has built-in "Parental Control" with a whitelist of applications and websites, which protects children from shocking, pornographic or potentially dangerous information. The shield also prevents access to phishing and infected sites.
System Optimization Mode speeds up Windows and fixes vulnerabilities.
Advantages
Subscription less than 1000 rubles per year;
Advanced "Parental Control";
disadvantages
Basic protection for Internet payments;
Verification only by the signature comparison method;
Microfreezes in games due to active file checking.
The best antivirus programs for Android
Why first place: Lightweight, does not load the system, analyzes all kinds of executable files.
Description: Antiy AVL is topping the rating for two reasons. First, it is lightweight - even when installed, it takes up no more than 30 megabytes of internal memory. Second, it analyzes all kinds of executable files for the Android operating system, including APK application packages, SIS scripts, DEX hint sets, and others.
Antivirus uses its own AVL SDK engine with compact signature databases and efficient detection with low consumption of system resources, including battery power.
The anti-virus works in automatic and manual mode. The signature base is updated daily. Automatic mode analyzes downloaded and executable files for activity and access to system resources. In manual mode, all internal memory is checked, including the data and applications stored on it in the / data section without access to the providers' database and the need for root.
Advantages
Takes up little space on the internal storage;
Regular and large-scale updates of the anti-virus signature database;
Automatic check in free version.
disadvantages
Slow full checks;
Defines superuser rights as a virus;
There are false positives.
Why second place: Antivirus with anti-theft, web scanner and paid subscription.
Description: Antivirus Bitdefender Mobile Security & Antivirus is multifunctional and therefore could lead the rating, but the most interesting features are available only in the paid version. So, without a subscription, the Anti-theft mode will not work, which helps in finding the phone and detecting the thief.
But in free mode, the antivirus also works. It scans your phone or tablet automatically to detect downloadable or executable malware. And the manual analysis checks the entire internal storage.
The application also protects the user's confidential data, prohibiting unauthorized access to installed programs and placing especially personal photos and contacts in a special encrypted storage.
Web Security mode adds an optional scanner using cloud-based malware detection.
Advantages
Secure storage for personal photos;
Cloud, heuristic and signature engines;
Anti-theft mode.
disadvantages
Limited VPN traffic in the paid version.
Few features in the free version;
Description: Antivirus CM Security was developed by the company that created the Clean Master. It is designed exclusively for mobile devices and analyzes malware by means of signature matching. However, antivirus is more of an "additional" function than the main function of CM Security. Actually, that's why he is in third place in the rating.
The "Smart Diagnostics" mode in this antivirus with one click fixes most of the problems that lead to the slowdown of the smartphone. After pressing the button, CM Security checks the internal memory for viruses, cleans up temporary and unnecessary files, disables unused services and speeds up the phone.
The antivirus has a built-in client for a proprietary VPN service to encrypt traffic, bypass regional Internet restrictions and additional protection when shopping online. The volume of traffic is not limited, you do not need to register.
Advantages
One click service;
Built-in VPN with unlimited traffic;
Built-in blacklist of calls and SMS.
Why the fourth place: Powerful antivirus that is practically useless in the free version.
Description: Kaspersky Antivirus & Security closes the rating for a reason. Of course, this is a very powerful antivirus that is able to neutralize infected files even in the system partition of the Android OS. It constantly checks downloads and running applications, and scans the access rights of installed software to keep confidential information.
But all this works only in the paid version. Without a subscription, only the function of manually starting a scan, full or quick, is available. The paid version also has a powerful "Anti-theft" mode, which helps to remotely lock the device, find it or destroy data from the internal memory.
Additional features of the antivirus include a Kaspersky Secure Connection traffic encryptor, hiding personal contacts from prying eyes, a blacklist for calls and SMS messages, as well as an anti-phishing mode that blocks users from clicking suspicious links.
Advantages
Continuous, deep scanning;
Neutralization of all viruses and threats;
Anti-theft and protection of personal data.
disadvantages
High cost;
Almost all functions work only in the paid version.
Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.
The Windows operating system, unlike GNU / Linux, cannot fully defend itself against malware by its own capabilities. As much as the developers tout Windows Defender, it is far from perfect, so you have to use external software. This article reviews the 2019 antivirus rating.
Which antivirus to choose
Each antivirus product offers users, in addition to the detection and elimination of viruses, a set of additional features. Usually, they are related to advanced PC control, network security, Wi-Fi protection, etc. The most important criteria for choosing an antivirus include:
- cloud analysis. Ability to scan files in an isolated environment;
- firewall. Blocking unwanted Internet resources;
- protection of personal information. First of all, these are bank data and some other personal information.
If any of these items are missing from the antivirus, this does not mean that it is bad. The effectiveness of a program is found in practice when it performs well its main function. The rest depends on the additional needs of the user.
Antivirus rating 2019
There are a large number of software that offer their services to combat viruses and Trojans. Each of them has its own pros and cons. Depending on the needs and capabilities, it is worth making a choice on the most suitable product.
| Top Antivirus 2019 | |||||
| Name | Cloudy analysis | Protection personal data | Firewall | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | No | Yes | |||
| Yes | No | Yes | |||
| Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
| Yes | No | No | |||
| Yes | No | No | |||
| Yes | No | No | |||
| Yes | Yes | Yes | |||
| No | No | No | |||
| AVG | Yes | No | No | ||
| ESET NOD32 | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||
Short review
Let's consider each of the antiviruses presented in the table, comparing their advantages and disadvantages.
In addition to the standard security function, the antivirus offers a built-in security gateway when connecting to open Wi-Fi networks and a special password storage for saving personal data in the cloud. There is also a game mode that turns off program notifications and reduces the load on the processor during a game session.
Benefits
- wi-Fi protection;
- the presence of a game mode;
- password container.
disadvantages
- no firewall;
- lack of protection against interception of input data.
Free version of the well-known anti-virus software, created especially for users of post-Soviet countries. The program provides online protection and has the necessary functionality to ensure the security of a PC from the introduction of malicious code.
Benefits
- powerful core;
- checking attachments in messengers;
- built-in VPN service.
disadvantages
- lack of protection against interception of banking data;
- high consumption of PC resources.
Product of Chinese manufacturers. Became widely known in the Russian-speaking segment due to the linking of the capabilities of antivirus software and an optimizer. Several engines work in it. A key factor in its distribution and popularity is a large amount of advertising.
Benefits
- wide functionality;
- there is a firewall;
- several anti-virus engines work;
- optimized consumption of computer resources.
Antivirus in a minimalistic style. Has a small number of settings and a simple menu. Additional functions of the program include only the possibility of forced scanning of a specific folder. Suitable for beginners to use a computer.
Benefits
- simple settings;
- a convincing indicator of virus detection.
disadvantages
- limited functionality;
- lack of Russian localization.
The first free license product to implement a cloud analysis algorithm. When scanning files in an isolated container, the collective scan method is enabled, which takes into account the results of other users' scan.
Benefits
- efficient collective verification algorithm;
- minimum number of notifications;
- pre-analysis of flash drives.
disadvantages
- small functionality;
- dependence on an internet connection to work effectively.
Unusual antivirus software that performs best when connected to the Internet. The ClamAV offline core is used for scanning, in parallel with which suspicious objects are analyzed by twelve VirusTotal engines. SecureAPlus runs easily on a PC with a different security program.
Benefits
- highly efficient cloud scanning;
- software analysis based on the trusted list;
- works in parallel with another antivirus.
disadvantages
- the proactive core is not powerful enough;
- lack of protection of personal data.
A very effective free tool. It has the ability to protect personal data, a built-in firewall and even a task scheduler. It stands out for its high degree of cloud analysis efficiency.
Benefits
- convenient functionality;
- availability of plugins for data protection in browser forms;
- built-in firewall and task scheduler.
Antivirus programs: The list of the best antiviruses below will help you keep your computer and digital life safe and sound.
While this review focuses on antivirus software for Windows computers, many are also available on Apple Macs, smartphones and tablets. Depending on the needs of a certain user, he can buy some products with less functionality at a lower price.
Antivirus programs: list of the best
Kaspersky Total Security 2016
The latest version of Total Security from Kaspersky Lab is available on PC and Mac, as well as on Android and iOS mobile devices. In addition to powerful antivirus and anti-malware protection, this package offers data backup and encryption capabilities, a password manager and a system cleanup function. Free technical support by phone and chat is available.
Webroot Internet Security Complete 2016
Webroot Internet Security Complete 2016 offers comprehensive anti-virus protection, system optimization, remote control capability. Other offerings include 25GB of cloud storage, device tracking, a password manager, and webcam spy protection. Available on PC, Mac and popular mobile devices.
Norton Security Deluxe
Price: 1,799 rubles (up to five devices)
norton.com
Norton Security Deluxe has protection against viruses and spyware, personal data and network transactions. Norton promises 100% virus protection, free support, and an easy-to-use web dashboard that keeps track of all your devices. The app is available on PC, Mac and mobile devices.
Avast Pro Antivirus 2016
Avast Pro Antivirus 2016 places suspicious files downloaded by the user in the "sandbox" until it is sure that they are safe. In addition to providing the highest level of antivirus protection against malware and spyware, protection is provided for connected peripherals such as printers and network drives. There is also a password keeper, a secure browser function, and an intuitive interface. Avast Pro Antivirus 2016 is available on Windows.
McAfee 2016 Total Protection
McAfee 2016 Total Protection can be installed on Windows and Mac, Android and iOS. The package offers a high level of protection against viruses, spyware and malware, an identity manager. The latter allows you to quickly and securely log into user accounts on websites. The package can be installed on an unlimited number of devices.
Bitdefender Total Security 2016
Price: $ 58.47 (up to three devices)
bitdefender.com
Bitdefender Total Security 2016 is only available on PC and has little effect on the speed of the system it is installed on. In addition to the usual suite of anti-virus, anti-malware and anti-spyware, the application suite has powerful tools against phishing and suspicious behavior on social networks. Bitdefender also protects computers from USB flash drives with dangerous content.
Greetings to all readers of this site, in previous posts we figured it out in detail, on a computer. Now, we are faced with another task, it is to ensure the protection of the computer from viruses and malware. Therefore, in today's article we will talk about which antivirus is better.
I propose to consider both free and paid versions. Each program has its own advantages and disadvantages, therefore, which antivirus to choose you must decide for yourself. Many of you are probably well aware that nowadays, a computer must have an anti-virus defender that can protect your personal data from theft, as well as protect information stored on hard drives from malicious code. After all, it's not a secret for anyone that some viruses can not only damage the user's files, but also disable the computer. As a rule, to protect your home computer from threats, it will be enough for us to install one of the antiviruses.
Which antivirus is better - choose the right protection.
As I already told you, there are free and paid antivirus programs, and you shouldn't dismiss free utilities, as they can be no worse than their paid counterparts. We will try to determine which antivirus is best for Windows.
In order to protect your computer from viruses, you need to select only one antivirus, because if you install two or more programs at the same time, then a conflict will begin between them. At the same time, it often happens that antiviruses enter into battle with each other because of what, and in this case, there can be no question of any protection, since they block each other's work. I also want to recommend that it does not conflict with third-party antivirus.
It is quite difficult to unambiguously recommend which antivirus is better, since each developer praises his own products. We can only choose favorites based on the results of using certain programs. As for me, most of the popular antiviruses are very similar to each other. Their only difference is that some programs specialize more in protecting computer files, while others provide maximum protection when working on the Internet.
The best free antivirus software.
I suggest you start looking at the list of which antivirus is the best with free products. As a rule, free antiviruses have all the basic functions that will be enough to protect your home computer. Such programs can be attributed to the "installed and forgotten" section, since they work independently, do not require a paid license renewal and other actions from the user. If you are interested in such antiviruses, then let's start our list.
Avast! Free Antivirus is a fairly popular antivirus program among users. The utility is completely free, but at the same time it can perfectly provide protection for computers in various fields of application. After installing Avast! Free Antivirus, you don't have to dig into its settings, since after installation it will be configured by default to carry out its basic duties. But if you want to apply some additional parameters, then the program can offer you a wide range of options. Avast is able to quarantine infected and suspicious files, perform a full scan of the computer for viruses, supports game mode and many other functions. After installation, the program requires a one-time registration. Therefore, if you do not want to bother too much with the choice of a defender for your computer, then Avast will suit you very well. 
Avira Free Antivirus is another popular free antivirus program that is ideal for home use. Avira differs from other programs in that it uses little computer resources, thus does not slow down its work. The program can constantly monitor the state of the PC, or check it for viruses on a schedule. Avira can automatically update itself, and also monitors the installation of unwanted software. Thus, the utility, without disturbing the user, protects the computer from viruses and malicious programs. 
Microsoft Security Essentials is the latest contender for the best free antivirus. This is a small antivirus program from Microsoft that has a minimal set of all the necessary functions, but at the same time it protects your computer from viruses well. The program is constantly updated, so it is able to reflect the intervention of any modern viruses. A computer scan can be performed on a schedule. Microsoft Security Essentials is suitable for those who do not want to install third-party software, but at the same time care about protecting their PC from viruses. It is advisable to use this anti-virus software in conjunction with the Windows firewall. 
I also want to mention such free antiviruses as 360 Total Security, Comodo, Panda, they are less popular among users and have more modest functionality, but, like the above products, they can provide basic PC protection. All of the above programs can be downloaded from the official websites of the developers. Also in the following articles I will tell you how to install them.
The best paid antivirus software.
Let's now take a look at a few paid antivirus defenders, and also talk to you about which antivirus is best to install. Paid products are quite interesting. They have a very wide functionality, support work on devices with different platforms, are constantly being improved and updated. At the same time, some programs were developed a long time ago and were loved by users so much that they became unconditional leaders. At the same time, they can provide protection of devices at a professional level.
Kaspersky Anti-Virus - probably one of the best paid antivirus software. Of course, you can use its free version, but it will be with reduced functionality. In order to have "protection to the teeth", you need to buy an annual license. Kaspersky is able to provide a full-fledged firewall, has a rich set of functions, and also allows the user to configure protection for any needs. I also want to say that the cost of a license is not very high, so I recommend installing this antivirus and using its capabilities to the maximum. 
Dr. The Web is another fairly old antivirus program that almost all computer, laptop and smartphone users know. Doctor Web, like Kaspersky Anti-Virus, has different versions, and after installation it provides the user with a one-month trial period. Thus, you can make a choice in the future, keep this product on your computer or look for another option. But as a rule, because of the comprehensive functionality and impeccable protection, users prefer Doctor Web. The price for the licensed product is less than for Kaspersky, the subscription is also issued for a year. 
ESET NOD32 completes our list. This contender belongs to the top three paid antiviruses. It can effectively protect your computer from viruses, provide constant control and monitoring of the system. Unlike the antiviruses described above, this product does not slow down the computer and does its job for five points. The program is constantly being updated and refined, so if you choose ESET NOD32, you can rest assured that your computer is safe. 
Let's summarize.
Summing up the results of today's article, of course I would like to choose which antivirus is best for your computer. Undoubtedly, paid products are the undisputed leaders, as they can provide professional protection for your devices. If you need to protect your home PC from viruses, and you do not want to spend money on paid antiviruses, then you can install a free program. In general, as always, the choice is yours, I can only advise you. I also ask you to unsubscribe in the comments which antiviruses you use.
Provided with special programs - antivirus software. The rating of the best free antiviruses, amateur and authoritative tests are published with enviable regularity, but choosing a high-quality and functional product is not so easy.
In addition, freeware is not considered to offer the same protection as paid software. In fact, in the segment of free applications, you can find the best solution. The rating of free antiviruses is presented below.
Microsoft's standard antivirus: prevalence and performance
Windows Corporation is the undisputed leader among the providers of operating systems and related software. As of 2016, Windows 7 was installed on 55% of all devices, while Linux and OS X 10.11 from Apple own 2% and 7% of users, respectively.
The rating of free antiviruses rarely includes standard solutions, but they are acceptable programs to ensure the required level of security. Windows Defender, which ships with Windows 8 and 10, recognizes and eliminates up to 95% of common threats and about 85% of so-called zero-day attacks, i.e. the latest viruses against which protection algorithms have not yet been developed.
Will Windows Defender be enough for the needs of an ordinary user?
In general, along with the observance of elementary security rules, the use of a modern browser and regular software updates make it possible to successfully apply standard antivirus (reviews, Windows Defender rating confirm this possibility) as the main security solution. But for those who often download pirated content, are an active Internet user or store important data on their hard drive, it is better to take a closer look at other, free, but somewhat more functional programs.
Testing in independent antivirus laboratories
Comparative tests with large numbers of samples are routinely performed by leading antivirus laboratories. Test results allow developers to improve their own products, so participation is usually paid. Basically, the rating of Windows antiviruses (the operating system is the most common, therefore, tests are carried out on it) include paid versions of programs, but if a free solution provides full protection, the software is also evaluated.
In May 2016, AV-Comparatives dynamically tested 19 antivirus programs. The study used the Windows 7 platform (with current third-party software such as Adobe Flash or Java) and 350 malicious test samples. Below is the AV-Comparatives' ranking of free antivirus.
Practical research results
The rating "Antivirus for free" (Windows 10 and other operating systems based on the corporation) was topped by Bitdefender and ThreatTrack Vipre, which did not miss a single threat and worked without false positives. Leadership positions were also taken by Trend Micro and F-Secure with a 100% result of malware detection, but respectively 7th and 15th false positives. Rounding out the top five was Kaspersky Internet Security, which missed 0.3% of threats, but passed the test without false positives.
Free analogues of tested antivirus programs
Bitdefender's free counterpart - Free Edition - is used as an alternative to many paid applications, provides background virus protection and is able to detect spyware. ThreatTrack Vipre is not available in a free version. Trend Micro Titanium Antivirus + is free trial only (6 months free trial), just like F-Secure (90 days). The analogue of Kaspersky Internet Security is Kaspersky Free Anti-Virus (Free) with a free license, which has somewhat limited capabilities compared to KIS or Total Security, but remains an optimal solution.
Antivirus rating for Windows: functionality
"Antivirus for free" (the rating is compiled by many authoritative sources and amateurs) often differs in functionality from the paid versions. However, this does not mean at all that free software is not able to protect your computer from viruses, malware and spyware.
In general, antivirus programs provide the following features:
scanning for threats at the user's request;
real-time system protection in the background;
scanning the file system during computer startup;
an algorithm for detecting the latest malicious programs, methods of fighting which are not yet included in the general version of the application;
work with cloud storage;
network traffic control (firewall or Firewall);
third-party intrusion detection system;
Recognition of malicious attachments;
web protection;
interactive analysis and recognition of spam;
automatic update.
At the same time, the best free antivirus for Windows 7 (rating by functionality) does not have to include the entire set of features. The main thing is that the selected solution meets the requirements and subjective ideas of a particular user.
Ranking leader: ESET Nod32 Smart Security
All of the above features include a comprehensive antivirus with multi-layered protection ESET Nod32 Smart Security. In addition to standard protection against phishing, file system security, Internet access, and e-mail in stationary mail clients, ESET has some other interesting features. Among these additional features:
A serious disadvantage of the antivirus is the lack of protection against software that records user actions (mouse movements, keystrokes, clipboard, snapshots, and sometimes screen recording) in the free version.
Free Antivirus Rating: Performance and Benchmarks
Another rating of free antiviruses is based on the results of testing and analysis of program performance. Panda Antivirus Pro and 360 Total Security have a slight effect on system boot speed, while AVG Antivirus Free, Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition and ESET NOD32 Smart Security are not far behind. The download of Avira Free Antivirus significantly slows down (over three minutes).
Scanning system folders (with equal detection of malware) takes about ten minutes for Avast Free Antivirus, AVG Antivirus Free, Avira Free Antivirus and ESET NOD32 Smart Security. The worst result was shown by Comodo Antivirus - the scan took more than half an hour.
The smallest amount of memory is used by Avast Free Antivirus and Panda Antivirus Pro (only 40 MB), and the real "heavyweights" are Avira Free Antivirus (175 MB), AVG Antivirus Free (130 MB) and 360 Total Security (120 MB). At the same time, Avira uses the processor by only 5%, while the smaller AVG Antivirus Free - by as much as 16%.
Distribution of places according to the rating results
In general, free antiviruses for Windows XP (performance rating), as well as for other platforms (Windows 7, 8, 10), are located as follows:
Panda Antivirus.
360 Total Security.
AVG Antivirus Free and Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition.
Avira Free Antivirus and Comodo Antivirus.
Panda Antivirus Pro at a glance
One of the main advantages - a small load on the system from Panda Antivirus along with providing sufficient protection - is explained by the fact that the program is Software has most of the necessary functions, an additional USB scan is available, but there are quite a few significant disadvantages.
For example, antivirus for free (the rating recognized as the best solution based on test results) does not provide any protection against data interception by third-party programs, requires an active Internet connection to scan the system, and does not provide web protection. In addition, some users find malware in the installation files of the antivirus itself. The unsightly interface is another drawback of Panda Antivirus.
Antivirus apps for Android
If in the market of computer technology Windows occupies a leading position, then for mobile devices the Android operating system is almost a monopolist: 80% of smartphones run on Android. Mobile antiviruses are presented both by analogs of the already mentioned extended versions, and by programs that function exclusively on smartphones.
The AV-Test laboratory tested mobile antiviruses. The rating of free antiviruses for "Android" is headed by the AhnLab application. The application performs a comprehensive scan of a mobile device, prevents Internet threats, and allows you not to worry about the security of files and other personal data. At the same time, most of the programs presented in this rating are not common in the Russian-speaking segment, so you should rely more on real user reviews - there are no reputable laboratories that would evaluate Russian-speaking applications.
Quite good solutions for the choice of active users are CM Security, Dr.Web Light and free antivirus (reviews, rating below) CM Security does not load the system and effectively copes with its duties, Dr.Web Light provides powerful protection, but annoys many users with frequent advertisements ... AVG AntiVirus is also a universal solution, in addition, in the Pro version of the application, many useful additional functions become available, but such an assembly consumes a lot of resources, which can make the device run slower.
Finally
Antivirus is a necessary program, because not always the user's needs can be met by standard options for protecting against viruses and malware (especially on mobile devices). The choice of the optimal solution here largely depends on individual needs and subjective judgments, therefore, you can be guided by various ratings, but you should not completely rely on testing. What is the use of an antivirus that, according to research results, does an excellent job with its tasks, but is elementally inconvenient to use or significantly slows down a laptop or smartphone? Many users need to first try several options in order to end up choosing the only convenient one.
