The Best Free Antivirus Programs

Many top antivirus programs have free versions that are equally effective as their paid versions in stopping malware. The majority of antivirus programs offer an entry-level, low-end version with limited features. A mid-range product includes additional security tools, while a high-end program has all the bells and whistles.

AVG Antivirus The free version of the program offers superior malware protection with a minimal impact on the system. The free version comes with a number other useful tools, such as junk file cleanup RAM optimization, RAM cleaning and WiFi network scanners. It’s also completely ad-free and doesn’t nag users to upgrade to premium features.

Microsoft Defender is the default antivirus software that comes with Windows systems. It’s not the best in stopping malware files from being downloaded onto your computer, but its free version includes many tools such as health and performance board meetings analysis and parental controls that aren’t found in paid versions of other anti-virus programs.

Bitdefender’s suites of antivirus software are among the most well-known in the market. The free version is just as powerful and effective as the paid versions. It’s free of ads and isn’t limited in the number of devices it can be able to scan and has a complete range of anti-theft tools, such as the ability to locate the device, lock it or wipe it clean of the contents of a stolen Android device.

Sophos Home free is great for those looking to manage antivirus protection on a computer belonging to a family member who does not reside in their home. It has excellent scores for malware detection, but it scores lower for phishing.