A few top antivirus programs have free versions that are as effective in stopping malware as their paid counterparts. The majority of antivirus programs provide an entry-level, low-end version with limitations on features. A mid-range product includes additional security tools, while a high-end program has all the bells and whistles.
AVG Antivirus Free version provides excellent security against malware, with a low impact on the system. AVG Antivirus is free and includes many other useful tools such as junk file cleaning, RAM optimization and Wi-Fi network scanners. It’s also completely ad-free and doesn’t nag you to upgrade to premium features.
Microsoft Defender is the default anti-malware program that comes with Windows systems. It’s not the best at preventing malware files from downloading on your system, but its free version comes with a number of tools like performance and health analyses and parental controls that aren’t found in paid versions of other antivirus software.
Bitdefender’s antivirus suites are among the most well-known on the market, and its free version of the program is as effective as its paid programs. It is free of ads, does not have a limit on the number of devices it will scan and includes a robust range of anti-theft tools, that allow you to locate and lock or wipe the stolen Android device.
Sophos Home Free is a great choice for those who need to manage antivirus protection on a family member’s computer who does not reside in the same household as them. It is a top malware detector with excellent scores, however it has a lower score for protection against phishing.
