Even though we have stepped into a new decade and have created a lot of technologies for our convenience, we do still face threats. Cybercriminals still roam around the internet looking for their next victim.
We cannot completely stop them from creating viruses or malware, but we can protect ourselves from them.
There are companies responsible for bringing software that can protect us from cyber-criminals. There are hundreds of companies creating or upgrading their software system to help us secure our devices.
This 2020, get to know the best antivirus and anti-malware software you can use to keep you safe from cyberattacks.
We have gathered the best software you can use and ensure the best protection that you need.
Table of Contents
10 of the Best Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software
BITDEFENDER ANTIVIRUS PLUS
Bitdefender, who made its name in 2001, has already reached a total of 500 million users in 2018. There is no doubt that its name will show up on the list of recommended security software.
Their 2020 version of Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is designed for Windows users only. However, a single license can cover three devices.
Key Features:
- Blocks malicious websites
- It has a password manager
- Prevents online fraud and phishing
- Integration of VPN for online privacy
- Ransomware protection
- Protection against malware, adware, and spyware
- Automatic updates
Price: $39.27 for a year.
KASPERSKY TOTAL SECURITY
Kaspersky’s Total Security is their most recommended product, with excellent security features that you and your family can use to protect your devices.
The price of this software depends on the number of users, and they often offer 1 to 2 years of subscription.
Key Features:
- Detects malware and viruses
- Doesn’t affect the performance of the device
- Compatible to PC, Mac, and mobile devices
- Encrypt important data like online transactions
- Unlimited password manager
- File shredder
- Safe browsing for kids
This software is named one of the best in the market.
NORTON 360 DELUXE
Norton is yet another name in the security software market that has stood the test of time. They offer various software for the protection of your device, but their 360 Deluxe is the best among their products.
Norton 360 Deluxe provides advance security and antivirus protection.
Key Features:
- Safe browsing for kids
- Multi-layer protection for incoming and existing threats
- Secures bank and online credentials
- Stores passwords and credit card details safely
- Notifies existence of personal information on the dark web
- Webcam protection
- Compatible with Mac, PC, and mobile device
It’s best known for its malware protection.
Price: $7.99 per month (for the first 12 months).
WEBROOT SECUREANYWHERE ANTIVIRUS
If you are looking for a software that doesn’t take up most of your computer’s space, Webroot will perfectly fit that description.
It is known to be the most lightweight security software available in the market. It has a 2 MB download size and doesn’t require a large space for updates. Despite being 2 MB, or might even be less, it is packed with incredible features to protect devices.
Key Features:
- Real-time protection against phishing
- Secure internet browsing and connection
- Excellent ransomware protection
- Detects malware and viruses
- Quick scan time: 20 seconds to check for malicious malware
- Runs on the cloud
- Webcam protection
- Compatible with PC and Mac users
Price: Depends on the number of devices and years of subscription.
TREND MICRO MAXIMUM SECURITY
Despite its disagreement and the reviews of its false-positive results, Trend Micro is best for its antivirus feature.
Key Features:
- Ransomware protection
- Secure folders
- Easy to use
- Blocks malicious website and excellent phishing protection
- Available for Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
- Safe browsing children
- Protects and manages passwords
One biggest problem with Trend Micro is the slowing down of a computer’s performance during a scan, particularly in old systems.
Price: $89.95 per year
AVAST ANTIVIRUS
Avast is known for their free antivirus software, but they do also offer malware protection which comes in a bundle.
Key Features:
- Antivirus and anti-malware protection
- Compatible with desktops and mobile devices
- Protection against ransomware, spyware, zero-day threats, and unsecured Wi-Fi connection
- Real-time protection
- Secures passwords
Price: Free, but their premium security for a single device starts at $69.99 per year.
F-SECURE ANTIVIRUS
F-secure antivirus has some false-positive results, but this depends on how you use your computer. Even though it produces such results, it still has some excellent features.
Key Component:
- Safe online banking
- Family protection
- Tracking of a lost device
- Lock or delete the content of the lost device
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Minimal effect on the system’s performance
- Anti-malware protection
- Blocks ransomware
Price: Free for 30 days. Their premium plan begins at $66 a year for three devices.
MALWAREBYTES ANTI-MALWARE
Malwarebytes is known to be the most effective free malware remover. Its focus is more on the removal of existing malware on the computer.
Key Features:
- It works better than traditional antivirus software
- Block malicious websites, malware, and ransomware
- Cleans up infected devices thoroughly
- Works in all devices
Price: When you install the free plan, you’ll automatically have a 14-day trial of the premium version. After the free premium trial, it goes back to its basic or free feature. Their paid plans start at $39.99 per year for one device only.
COMODO WINDOWS ANTIVIRUS
This security software is designed for expert users only. This software is a complicated software to be used by newbies.
Key Features:
- Cloud-based scanning: Makes this fast and can detect viruses that are common on the internet
- 24/7 tech support
- Firewall protection
- Scanning any viruses on games to avoid game interruption
- Secure shopping
- Spyware scanning
- Blocks viruses and malware
- Safe browsing for kids
- Compatible to PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones
Price: Free. $17.99 per year for one device only.
MCAFEE ANTIVIRUS PLUS
This antivirus software can manage to protect ten devices at a low price. With a single subscription, you can secure any of your devices.
Key Features:
- Cloud-based scanning: similar to Comodo Windows Antivirus
- Ransomware protection
- Safe web surfing by blocking malicious websites or files
- Excellent customer support
- Anti-phishing feature
- Boost PC performance
- It works best with a high-speed internet connection.
Price: $143 a year for ten devices.
Conclusion
There are other security software available on the market. Some of which offers free plans with excellent features, but purchasing a paid plan always seems better. It gives you the security and protection you need for your computer or mobile device.
Weigh in the pros and cons of each software, know what you need, and your budget before purchasing one.
It is also good to know that security software may do the job to protect your devices, but you also have to practice safe ways to protect your personal data.
- Use a strong password
- Avoid using public WI-FI
- Don’t click on links from an unknown sender
- Avoid downloading files from unsecured websites
- Update plugins, software, and apps when available
When you apply these simple ways to protect your data, together with an excellent security software, you and your information are fully protected.
AUTHOR’S BIO | John Ocampos
John Ocampos is an Opera Singer by profession and a member of the Philippine Tenors. Ever since, Digital Marketing has always been his forte. He is the Founder of SEO-Guru, and the Managing Director of Tech Hacker. John is also the Strategic SEO and Influencer Marketing Manager of Softvire Australia – the leading software eCommerce company in Australia and Softvire New Zealand.
