This fast-changing landscape is hard for OS makers to keep up with, as pushing patches for every malware attack, especially those unrelated to an underlying bug in the platform, is not feasible. This is where antivirus software – which, these days, encompasses much more than real-time protection against viruses and adds features such as password management, VPN, firewall, parental controls, internet security, and protection against identity theft – comes into play.
Great tools, great information, and great prices.
Advanced antivirus, anti-malware, anti-spyware & moreMalicious links/websites & phishing protectionRansomware & zero-day exploits protectionBrute force and uninstall protectionRemoves annoying ads that follow you aroundBlocks third-party ad trackers that collect your dataNo-log VPN
The package includes VirusBarrier X9. It comes with real-time protection from malware, as well as a scanner, and the NetBarrier X9 firewall, which protects against network and internet intrusion. A license covers a single Mac. You can add Windows protection for an extra $10 (either for a separate PC or a BootCamp installation).
Real-time protectionFast scans with low-performance impactIntelligent firewallHotspot network protection
This allows you to pay for what you want, although Norton offers a 5-device, 10-device, and unlimited plan if you have more than one device. Features include:
Real-time threat protectionPassword managerSmart firewall100% virus protection promise50GB cloud backupSecure VPNDark web monitoringSafeCam webcam blockerParental controlsSchool Time feature
This package represents excellent value for money for the price, and it means less messing about with different solutions. Bitdefender Total Security is also packed with features:
Top-level threat detection to stop sophisticated malwareInnovative technologies to protect against zero-day attacksMulti-layer ransomware protection to keep your files safeSecure VPN for complete online privacy, 200 MB/day/deviceAdvanced parental controls to keep your kids safe onlineMinimal impact on your system performance
One thing that impresses me about McAfee Total Protection is how lightweight and easy to use it is, yet there’s no compromise in the security and features it offers.
Award-winning antivirusSecure VPN (5 licenses)Performance optimizationHome network securitySecurity experts and online supportPassword managerSafe Web browsingEncrypted storageMulti-device compatibilityIdentity protection serviceParental controls
Avira Mobile Security protects your phone:
Web Protection blocks phishing, malware, spam, and fraud so you can browse freely and safely.Identity Safeguard scans to find out if your email addresses have been hacked. Built-in VPN to secure your connection to the internet.The anti-theft feature allows you to find, track, and recover your iPhone or iPad if it’s lost or stolen, lock apps to prevent unauthorized access, and, as a last resort, remotely wipe your device.Call Blocker allows you to build a blacklist and block spam and other unwanted calls and texts.Contacts Backup lets you backup and restore contacts to your email, Dropbox, or Google Drive.Network Scanner will let you find all the devices connected to your Wi-Fi.
Avira Mobile Security for iOS is free with in-app purchases.
Antivirus engineApp lockAnti-theftPhoto vaultVPNPower savePrivacy permissionsRAM boostJunk cleanerWeb shieldWi-Fi securityApp insightsVirus cleanerWi-Fi speed test
Avast Antivirus for Android is free, but there are pro features that in-app purchases can unlock. Packages such as Norton AntiVirus and Bitdefender Total Security are great for those with multiple devices running different platforms. They want a one-stop-shop covering everything with a single license. These packages do much more than offer protection against malware and add essential security features such as password managers, file shredders, ransomware protection, VPNs, parental controls, and much more. The makers of these security suites offer a free trial, and it might be a good idea to make use of this, so you can see whether the software fits in with your workflow. Some people can find that certain packages deliver security information annoying, while others want it to be noisy and inform them of everything that happens. This also allows you to discover for yourself what the performance hit of running the software is like. For Windows users who don’t want to mess about with subscriptions or risk their protection running out at some point, I believe that Microsoft Windows Defender Antivirus – built-in to Windows 10 and Windows 11 – is the perfect solution. Also: The Windows 10 security guide: How to protect your business Whatever you choose, I recommend that you download from a reputable source – either the official website or an official download source such as Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. Shady third-party sites are the perfect place to catch malware!
