The best antivirus software will guard your devices from ransomware, malware, and phishing. It also stops data breaches and spyware from damaging your personal data. However, there are a lot of company website different programs available and many of them cost more than you’d prefer to pay.
We’ve tested more than 300 of them in order to find the most effective virus protection for the budget. We’ve searched for reliable and user-friendly software that keeps you protected without affecting your computer or making you rethink using it. We’ve also ensured that the software updates regularly its malware database.
The best packages provide the full suite of anti-malware engines. They also include additional features like a VPN and password manager, as well as parental controls. Some provide a dark Web monitoring service that can determine if your email address, credit card numbers or other personal data has been accessed by a shady person.
Our top pick is Norton 360, which offers great all-round protection with excellent malware detection rates and impressive extra features, including password management and a VPN to protect your privacy when surfing online. The service also offers live monitoring of dark web activity and cloud backups.
It’s one of the few security packages available for Macs (most other programs only cover Windows PCs). In tests conducted by independent lab AV Comparatives it performed well. It’s a little pricey at around $2.50/month for an annual subscription, however, there’s a free trial version available.
