Antivirus software prevents, scans, detects, and deletes viruses from a computer. Once installed, most antivirus software runs automatically in the background to provide real-time protection against virus attacks. Antivirus software keeps malicious software, known as malware, from harming the data on your computer. Installing antivirus software is important even if you’re on a Mac or Windows computer, because both come only with standard virus protection and not enough protection against larger attacks. For total protection with endpoint protection and response that blocks malware and potentially unwanted programs, it’s best to install antivirus software. We’ve researched the best antivirus software available online for their ease of installation and variety of features. Here are our top choices to help you decide which antivirus software is best for your computer system.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

How does antivirus software work?

Antivirus software either scans programs and files as they enter your computer and compares them to known viruses, or it scans programs already on your computer, looking for any suspicious behavior. In addition, antivirus software features tools to either remove or quarantine offending malware. Antivirus software gives your computer protection from additional viruses, prevention of phishing attacks, and will also scan removable devices. It will even give you protection against online threats, block spam sites and ads, and protection from identity theft.

 

What can happen to my computer if I don’t have antivirus software?

The biggest threat your computer faces without antivirus software is lost data. If you or a family member clicks a malicious link, you can infect your entire computer system with a destructive virus that can shut down your computer or in-home network, wipe your hard drives clean, and spread to other devices and users through the Internet. Comprehensive antivirus software helps protect your files and hardware from malware such as worms, Trojan horses, and spyware, and offers additional protection such as customizable firewalls and suspicious website blocking. Even if you have a virus on your computer, as long as the virus has not damaged the Windows system files that the operating system uses while installing applications, you can install antivirus software and quickly get started protecting your files.

 

Buying Guide:

The best antivirus software for your computer is easy to install and will start scanning your computer immediately for viruses upon installation. Antivirus software is available as a download onto your computer from the internet after you purchase it. You are either sent a link via email with an activation code or mailed an activation code to use on the link or a link is available immediately upon purchase. Make sure you choose the correct download for your PC or Mac and that the antivirus software supports your current operating system, whether it is Windows or iOS.

 

Antivirus software scans the internet either constantly or intermittently throughout a twenty-four-hour period for potential threats and viruses. It will identify a virus and run a script against the virus, preventing it from infecting your computer. Antivirus software should also keep your online banking and finances safe, encrypt your passwords and personal data, scan the Dark Web for any personal information and prevent it from being hacked, enable you to securely browse online whether you are at home or traveling, gives you parental controls, and even keeps your webcam secure. Whichever antivirus software you choose to install, you’ll feel safer, in control, and have peace of mind about your data when you are using your computer.

Offers protection for up to five devices 

With its multi-layered, advanced security solutions, this antivirus software helps to protect your devices and sensitive information from online threats, including malware and phishing. It also monitors and notifies you if your personal information is found on the Dark Web.

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Most Customizable 

Allows you to view and manage which websites can collect your data

Summary: This software offers speed-optimized, cross-platform protection for your devices and keeps your browsing data private. It fuses smart behavioral detection to accurately monitor web apps in real-time. 

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Regularly scans your device’s health 

This software provides web threat protection and blocks malicious links in emails unauthorized changes to data. It includes rootkit detection and removal, virus and spyware detection and cleaning, and ransomware protection. 

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