A good antivirus program is absolutely essential to protect your computer, network and files from malware and unauthorized access. Fortunately, free antivirus programs offer outstanding protection without any eventual costs. Paid antivirus programs will always hold an edge with more complex firewalls, more scanning options and more thorough monitoring, but paid programs are suitable for most people who are careful with their emails, messages and online activities. If you want more complex benefits such as secure browsers, digital document shredders and file encryption, you might want to research paid options. Otherwise, read on for more information about protecting yourself with the best free antivirus programs available today.
Yes. A great thing about Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is that it can run alongside Avira, AVG and most other free antivirus programs with no problems. It's a great way to double up on your protection.
Most, if not all, free antivirus programs can be upgraded for a price. And you do get better protection if you pay. Using free antivirus programs is a great way to find the product you'd be most happy to pay for.
Zero-day malware infiltrates systems before companies can issue patches or updates to fix software vulnerabilities -- and by then, it may be too late. An antivirus program with good zero-day protection greatly increases your chances of being secure from the latest hacks and malware.
The answer to this question is often debated between PC publications and experts, but our favorite programs are Avira Free Antivirus, Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free and AVG Antivirus Free.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is not technically antivirus software because it doesn't protect against actual malware attacks or infections. However, this is perhaps the best free program for rooting out malware that's already on your system.
If you're into PC gaming, then you'll want an antivirus program that runs quietly in the background and doesn't interrupt your gameplay experience. AVG is great for this, as are other free antivirus programs not listed on our top three.
Most free antivirus programs offer widespread protection against established malware threats, but Avira also offers an impressive degree of protection from zero-day malware. It also features a private Web browser and even a VPN client for further identity protection.
AVG Free doesn't offer the same degree of protection as Avira Free, especially in regard to zero-day malware. However, AVG Free is better for people who want an antivirus program that runs in the background with less slowdown.