Data breaches and malware have taken the order of the day, so your devices (Android, Mac, and Windows PC) are unsafe without antivirus software. Cybercriminals have dubious and advanced ways to hack into your device unknown to you.
For example, you want to make a purchase and you stumble on a website while scrolling. And this website appears to be familiar; however, you notice something strange: they sell costly items at very cheap rates.
But because it looks familiar, you proceed to make a purchase without doing some background checks. Afterward, you waited to receive your purchase but to no avail.
That’s when it dawned on you that you’ve been scammed and your card details have been accessed by a supposed fraudster. However, cyberattacks like this can be prevented if you have antivirus solutions installed in your Android, Mac, or Windows PC.
This type of software helps to strengthen your financial and personal security. But how do you know the one to choose, or the one that’s ideal for your device? That is what this article seeks to answer. We’ve curated the best cybersecurity programs for you, keep reading to find out.
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Best Antivirus Software For 2024
Here are our top picks for the top-rated antivirus solutions for Windows, Android, and Mac. you can get them at the best price and install them on your device for maximum protection.
1. Norton 360
Norton 360 is a feature-packed cyberthreat solution software for malware protection. This internet security suite secures your information, protects it, and keeps it private. Furthermore, you can use this antivirus software across any device, including Android, Windows, and Mac PC.
It has an intuitive interface with effective real-time cybersecurity protection, a password manager, and reliable VPN for additional security. The Norton 360 antivirus program uses a scanning engine that allows it to scan, discover, and discard the most advanced and newest kinds of malware.
Meanwhile, other additional features associated with Norton 360 include the following:
- Smart and secure firewall
- Safe web & safe search
- Webcam protection
- Secure VPN (with unlimited data)
- Norton private browser
- Data protector
- Password manager
- Dark web monitoring (select countries only)
- Wi-fi security alerts (Android and iOS only)
- Parental controls (safe family)
- Privacy monitor
- Cloud storage (250 GB on the 360 with LifeLock Select plan)
- Device optimization
- Ransomware protection
- Secure browser
- Identity theft protections
- Drive updater (Add-on only)
- Software updater
- Cloud backup
2. Bitdefender
Bitdefender is among the top-rated cybersecurity programs with robust security suites and excellent protection features. This antivirus solution for Android, Mac, and Windows PC uses an expansive malware database alongside artificial intelligence and machine learning to discover and remove malware more effectively than its competitors.
We like that it is compatible with many operating systems and devices, including mobiles, Linux, Windows, iOS, and Android. While Bitdefender has several other intriguing features, its VPN is limited to 200MB of data per device unless you upgrade to the premium security plan.
Other Bitdefender features include the following:
- Ransomware protection
- Webcam protection
- Password manager
- Parental controls
- Vulnerability scanner
- Web protection
- VPN (200 MB per day on most plans)
- System optimizer
3. TotalAV
TotalAV is a high-performance and budget-friendly cybersecurity and antivirus program that you can easily manage. Its dashboard is intuitive and rookies can navigate the settings and menus without any hassle.
At the same time, advanced users will appreciate its multiple customization options. TotalAV also has a simple user interface that’s easy to navigate. And you can rely on its fast scanner for 99% malware detection rates.
Furthermore, it has a WebShield that prevents you from opening a suspicious website. Subscribing to its paid plan gives you access to the Total Browser, which blocks ads and suspicious sites. It will even tell you whether the page you’re visiting has previously experienced a data breach.
Other features that should make you consider using the TotalAV antivirus software for your Android, Mac, or Windows PC include the following:
- Smart scan
- Performance optimizer
- Secure VPN
- Password manager
- Secure Me
- Excellent ad blocker
- Cross-device password synchronization
- Customizable password generator
- WebShield
- Cloud Scanner
- Disk cleaner
- System tune-up
- Tracker-blocker
4. McAfee Antivirus Software
McAfee is an all-rounder when it comes to cybersecurity antiviruses. In addition to protecting your device from cyberattacks, it offers extra security features beyond malware protection.
Its simple user interface and fantastic anti-phishing protection makes it an excellent choice. With McAfee, you no longer have to worry about scams and clicking dangerous links in web browsers, social media, texts, or emails because its Scam Protection feature keeps you from such.
Its Wi-Fi scan feature is excellent too – it performs some checks on the Wi-Fi network you’re connected to and notifies you about whether the encryption is good to safeguard your information. For example, if you’re using open networks (like in coffee shops), it can notify you about vulnerabilities
And this helps you to decide whether to continue using the network or change into a safer network. Additional McAfee features include the following:
- VPN
- Tracker remover
- ID protection
- App boost feature
- File shredder
- Password manager
- Location tracking
- Parental controls
5. Trend Micro
If you.re looking for an affordable and pocket-friendly antivirus software that can protect your device from cyber attacks, then Trend Micro is your best bet. Although it has an easy and simple user interface, its performance cannot be compared to other cybersecurity programs discussed in this article.
It has a decent anti-malware engine too. And its browser extension is excellent for checking websites for unsafe content, blocking online scams, and monitoring security risks.
Furthermore, this antivirus software is compatible with iOS, Windows, Mac, Android, and Chromebook. We particularly like it because of its browser extension and web protection, which keeps you from phishing content, scam links, and malicious websites.
Finally, you’re assured of a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can expect to enjoy the following other features while using Trend Micro:
- PC health checkup feature
- Password manager
- VPN (available on top-tier premium security package)
- Antivirus scanner
- Scan customization settings
- Ad blocker
- Identity theft protection
Check out: Why Remote Monitoring is Essential for Cybersecurity in 2024
How To Choose The Best Antivirus Software For Your Device
The best cybersecurity programs will scan your system for cyberattacks and protect you from potential malware and viruses online. However, choosing the right one for you can be hard due to the numerous options available on the market.
For this purpose, we have provided some factors to consider when making your selections.
Ease of use
It should be easy to navigate with a user-friendly interface and multiple scan options. Having free trials will be a plus too.
Price
While its virus- and malware-detection/protection rates are paramount, it should come at a reasonable cost. So, consider the pricing and long-term costs associated with using a specific cybersecurity solution before finalizing your choice.
Detection rates
For optimum security, go for antivirus solutions with very high detection rates under testing. At least, a detection rate of 97% to 99% or more is excellent. Remember, the higher the percentage, the better outcome.
Real-time protection
Modern and feature-rich cybersecurity solutions should be capable of scanning your device in real-time and removing any cyberthreats from your system. Additionally, ensure your preferred pick has robust web protection, which prevents you from attack by malicious sites.
Additional features
This depends on your personalized needs. Are you about a very simple and minimalistic antivirus software without a bunch of features? Or, you’re more of a feature-packed person? These will also influence your choice of an antivirus program. Depending on your preference, you might want to check for password managers, VPN, etc.
See also: Is Cybersecurity Hard To Learn? Here’s What To Know
Conclusion
Picking the right antivirus software for your device (Android, Mac, or Windows PC) is critical for protecting your system from cyberthreats.
Although there are many options available, the best cybersecurity solutions provide a blend of user-friendly interfaces, minimal system impact, and robust malware protection. Whether you go for a premium plan or free package, ensure it’s suitable for you.
Ultimately, the “best” antivirus program will depend on your budget, individual needs, and device(s) you want to protect.