Many of the top antivirus software suites also come with additional features, such as parental controls as well as a password manager, and secure VPN access. If you’re looking for a package that offers the basic protection as well as these advanced features, we suggest Norton 360. If you’re looking for basic antivirus protection, Sophos Home Premium is an excellent choice that has an easy user interface and a low impact on the system resources.

Antivirus programs are updated constantly to improve security and stay abreast of new threats. You should look for an application that updates its virus definitions at least daily, and more often when it is possible. Some programs update automatically while others require you to manually update daily or on the schedule you choose.

The most popular antivirus programs offer high malware detection rates and a wide range of additional cybersecurity features that include firewalls and web security, an anti-phishing engine and more. All of the antiviruses we tested in 2023 come with a no-commitment trial for free and a refund warranty, and many have a multi-device licensing that covers five or more computers and devices that run any operating system.

Some of the best anti-virus software is easy to use for newbies, but offers a wide range of customization options for more advanced users. Intego Mac security X9 is a great example. It has virtual data rooms fundraising perfect malware detection rates, and a variety of Mac-specific security features. It is one of the few antivirus programs that we test that work on Windows PCs. It also comes with a reasonable price cost for a year-long subscription.