The most powerful antivirus for your computer. The best antiviruses. There are two types of antiviruses: paid and free.

People whose computers have ever been affected by various viruses are sure that an antivirus for a computer must be selected very carefully and very seriously.
Important warning: you need to protect your device right now so that it does not suffer from various malware. Sometimes even real money in online wallets can be stolen by such programs. Read a useful article for beginners,
There are a huge number of anti-virus programs at the moment, but they operate on almost the same principle. They study the computer and find the most vulnerable places in order to protect them.

There are two types of antiviruses: paid and free.

No need to think that if the program is expensive, then it protects much better. Today, there are a huge number of free offers that will help protect your computer from unwanted viruses. So, let's talk in detail about the best antivirus programs for 2017.

Most likely, this antivirus is the most popular. The program functions very well, users immediately liked it, so to this day they actively use it for their own purposes.

Benefits of Kaspersky Free:
1. The software works very fast.
2. The free version uses the same databases as the paid one.
3. With its help, all financial transactions are reliably protected.
4. It secures the internet connection with a VPN network.
5. There is a function.
6. Compatible with Windows, Android, Mac and other OS.
7. Low cost of a license.
8. You can use a free trial period (1 month)
9. Do you want a Kaspersky license for a year? Then you are here!

Disadvantages of Kaspersky Free:
1. Some viruses are not detectable.
2. Many features are not available in the free version.

Even those who rarely use a computer have heard about this defender. Avast is free, but at the same time very convenient and capable antivirus. In order to start using the program, you will first need to provide an email address and go through a short registration. The analysis shows that the antivirus is able to eliminate up to 99% of threats.


Benefits of Avast Free Antivirus:
1. The program has a very nice and simple interface.
2. Lots of add-ons to customize Avast personally for yourself.
3. Protects against applications that can cause even the slightest harm to your computer.
4. Quick check for threats.
5. Ease of updating the virus database due to direct access.
6. Cloud protection technology.

Disadvantages of Avast Free Antivirus:
1. Once a year, you will need to repeat the SIMPLE registration process.
2. The free version can only be used for home devices.

The main task of this antivirus is to scan your computer for viruses and delete infected files. It is worth noting that the program is not a full-fledged antivirus, but is more often used in addition to any program of this kind.


Benefits Web Carelt:
1. It is possible not to delete infected files, but to “cure” them.
2. The program can even not be installed.

Disadvantages Web Carelt:
1. The trial version does not have the ability to update the database.
2. It is not possible to work in web mode.

The paid version of the application is considered the best, but the free program will also be of interest to many. Despite some truncated features, the antivirus works great.


Benefits of Bitdefender Antivirus:
1. Very nice interface.
2. Huge work efficiency.

Disadvantages of Bitdefender Antivirus:
1. There is no Russian language.
2. Does not work well on weak computers.

The program is one of the best in the business. It is very good at detecting and eliminating viruses. You can download the antivirus for free, to improve the work you can download various plugins, which are also free.


Advantages of Avira Antivirus:
1. The program saves system resources very well.
2. Antivirus works stably and flawlessly.
3. Pretty good protection mechanism and high working efficiency.
4. Reliable protection against threats from the Internet;
5. You can customize data processing and set filters for applications;

Disadvantages of Avira Antivirus:
1. Sometimes ad windows pop up that offer to purchase a paid version.
2. Sometimes the program may skip trojans.

Download 360 Total Security

This program has very good protective functions, and at the same time set up 360 Total Security very simple. Of course, there are various subtleties in the settings, but even a “newbie” can handle them. Even Microsoft has included the program in the recommended list, so you should pay attention to this antivirus.


360 total security

Benefits of 360 Total Security:
1. The virus database is constantly updated.
2. The interface is very clear and simple.

Disadvantages of 360 Total Security:
1. The program does not include the Russian language.
2. There is only a complex scan.

The program is not very popular, but at the same time it copes well with its tasks. The fact is that it uses the same databases as the paid version of the program.


Benefits of AVG AntiVirus:
1. Very effective virus protection.
2. The program is economical in terms of system resource consumption.

Disadvantages of AVG AntiVirus:
1. Verification is rather slow.
2. The program sometimes works falsely.

The first anti-virus program that managed to use cloud technologies, allowing for better scanning.


Benefits of Panda Free Antivirus:
1. The interface looks very attractive.
2. The virus database is constantly updated.

Disadvantages of Panda Free Antivirus:
1. Not supported on weak PCs.
2. Sometimes the program works falsely.

Comodo Antivirus

Comodo antivirus is in great demand only among experienced computer users, because setting up the program is not so easy.


Comodo Antivirus

Benefits of Comodo Antivirus:
1. The program is able to identify potential threats.
2. The software is updated frequently.

Disadvantages of Comodo Antivirus:
1. In some cases, test results are controversial.
2. The program may conflict with some files.

A great application that can function both when scanning and in real time.


Advantages of Secure Plus:
1. Databases are updated frequently.
2. Quiet mode is enabled in the program.

Disadvantages of SecureAPlus:
1. Will fail on weak devices.
2. The program is very demanding on computer resources.

The main feature of the new version is the ability to monitor the software installed in the system and automatically update it. This will allow you to quickly close vulnerabilities with a patch released by the manufacturer.

In addition, the developers have implemented a separate Secure Connection feature in the antivirus, with which the user can establish a secure encrypted connection on public wireless networks available in cafes, hotels and airports.

However, the innovations in the 2017 version do not end there. And the first thing the user will notice is the new design of the program interface. The look of the new Kaspersky Internet Security has become closer to the style of Windows 10, while the developers have simplified access to some functions, and management has become more intuitive due to new infographics.

New:

  • Upgrading and splitting programs
  • Secure connection
  • Installation Assistant

Improved:

  • Interface
  • Checking Public Wi-Fi Security
  • Secure payments
  • Anti-banner

Checked and updated

As you know, attackers always carefully examine popular software and look for gaps in it to attack users' PCs. Even if the manufacturer quickly released a patch to fix the vulnerability, this does not guarantee that users will install it.


The new version of Kaspersky Internet Security has added the Software Update function to solve this problem. It checks the computer and determines which software updates and patches need to be installed. The feature is activated automatically and runs in the background.

It is convenient that the download and installation of files occurs without user intervention. At the same time, the program takes into account possible non-standard or dangerous scenarios. As the test showed, this process has a minimal impact on the speed of the PC.

Note that the program has the ability to create a list of software, the update of which is not desirable. You can do this in the menu "Settings | Protection | Software update". You can quickly scan for installed software by clicking the "More functions" button in the main window of the product.

Get rid of adware and spyware

In addition to the possibility of auto-updating, the developers have added a new feature "Installation Assistant" to the antivirus. It helps the user to control the installation of hidden programs downloaded from the Internet (cancel or block the installation). For example, this often happens when installing free antiviruses, editors, and even browsers.

To get rid of hidden adware will help the special function "Remove programs", located in the same section of the menu. In most cases, removing forgotten and unnecessary programs, many of which are constantly “hanging” in memory, can significantly speed up your PC.

No surveillance, no banners

According to analysts, advertisers are less and less using banner placement in their campaigns, and are resorting to other tricks. Nevertheless, the percentage of loading on the site with advertising elements is quite large. Often, it is on advertising that the main resources of the browser are spent, which means that the PC and mobile device are spent.

The Anti-Banner function is designed to speed up the loading of web pages and extend battery life. It blocks advertisements on websites, including pop-up banners.

In the new anti-virus version, the Anti-Banner engine has been updated and improved using a third-party subscription database. By default, ad blocking mode is disabled, but you can quickly activate it in Settings | Protection". It is noteworthy that Anti-Banner uses the same Kaspersky Protection extension as the Private Browsing feature available in the anti-virus.

Don't go there!

It's no secret that free Wi-Fi is very popular in public places, and digital scammers take advantage of this popularity. How to find out how reliable the wireless network is in a cafe or hotel?

The new Kaspersky Internet Security and Total Security have an improved mechanism for checking the security of public Wi-Fi networks. In particular, it has improved the accuracy of recognizing a wireless connection (home or public network).

This will save the user from confusion and unnecessary warnings.

The line is secure, I'm connecting

Even if you are confident in the security of your computer, this does not mean that your confidential data will not be intercepted on "listening" resources. The new antivirus for the exchange of personal information and communication provides a new feature "Secure connection".

It protects the user when connecting to unverified public networks by providing a secure, encrypted communication channel. This component is available from the main window of the antivirus through the "More functions" button.

The utility is installed on the computer as a separate application. A secure connection can be activated manually or automatically when certain scenarios are performed, such as connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, accessing online banking or communication sites (mail, social networks). In the standard package, 200 MB of traffic is available per day, and anything more is available for a fee.

Secure payments with feedback

When making banking transactions or making purchases in online stores, the antivirus automatically opens the browser in a protected mode. In the new version, the developers have included a feedback function in this component - in case there are any difficulties when working with certain web pages and sites.

Photo: manufacturing company

Information security in our time is more important than ever, just remember what the Petya.A virus did in Ukraine, with supposedly protected computers of government and financial institutions. Therefore, you should choose an antivirus program carefully and thoughtfully. We will present to your attention a description of the advantages, disadvantages and rating of the most popular antivirus software according to Internet users who discussed them, shared their own impressions, and voted for their favorite security programs on social networks and specialized sites.

Comparison table of the TOP 10 best Antiviruses of 2017

Name Rating according to users Peculiarities Price
Avast Free Antivirus 9 out of 10 Email protection, Web protection, work in the cloud for free
360 TOTAL SECURITY 8.3 out of 10 Web protection for free
7.7 out of 10 Built-in firewall, work in the cloud Trial - free, then $31.99
AVG Anti-Virus Free 7.7 out of 10 Web protection
ESET NOD32 Smart Security 7.7 out of 10 Built-in firewall, E-mail protection, web protection, work in the cloud, antispam Trial - free, then 6 $
Avira Free Antivirus 7.7 out of 10 E-mail protection, web protection, work in the cloud, antispam for free
Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition 6.7 out of 10 Work in the cloud, web protection for free
Comodo Antivirus 6.3 out of 10 for free
Dr.Web Antivirus 5 out of 10 Trial - free, then 13 euros per year
Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2017 5 out of 10 Email protection, web protection, antispam $30 per year

Three safety rules when working with Windows:

  1. Do not download or click "For everything";
  2. Install ALL critical updates;
  3. Work only under user rights.

1. AVAST Free Antivirus

There are two versions of the program from the company "AVAST": paid "Pro Antivirus" and free "Free Antivirus", for non-commercial use. The non-commercial version of the product is considered the world's most popular free security software content, with more than 230 million users. This fact alone speaks of the real usefulness of the program.

  • Install it and forget it software: no need to spend time on the initial adjustment of parameters and options;
  • Does not conflict with simultaneous work with games and game clients of online projects;
  • It copes well with its main task: searching, blocking and destroying virus applications of any type;
  • Minimum pop-ups and annoying windows.

Flaws:

  • Uses a large amount of PC resources when setting the maximum security level;
  • There is a risk of false positives due to the specific database of virus signatures;
  • Cannot check archived files.

2. "360 TOTAL SECURITY"

A good multifunctional anti-virus program, so to speak, is three in one: it catches viruses, helps optimize the operation of the operating system, and can clean the hard drive of unnecessary or useless files. An additional plus is the free distribution.

Advantages and features of the antivirus program:

  • Provides almost 100% real-time security;
  • Fast and thorough check when scanning;
  • Automatic scanning of each new connected media;
  • Easily integrates with the world's most popular browsers.

Flaws:

  • The presence of advertising: nothing can be done, the program is free;
  • Inconvenient interface in some sections of the application;
  • Conflict with some browser processes.

3.

Easy to install and use antivirus program. Protects the user's PC from the main types of known viruses and trojans. Maximum security with minimum effort.

Advantages and features of the antivirus program:

  • Not bad work in the automatic scanning mode;
  • Blocking access to Internet portals that may contain potential malicious software;
  • Daily update of anti-virus database signatures;
  • Clear and easy-to-use interface of the program;
  • Monitoring the security level of wireless networks.

Flaws:

  • No blocking of network ports;
  • Minimum level of effectiveness when trying to detect phishing malware;
  • Reduced software control functionality.

4. AVG Anti-Virus Free

Free security software, with a deep level of integration into the operating system. Carries out an automatic check of each running program on the computer. The user interface is convenient and pleasant to look at.

Advantages and features of the antivirus program:

  • Regular updating of databases with anti-virus signatures;
  • Ability to regularly check hard drives according to a schedule;
  • The presence of additional modules for scanning incoming mail and checking the security of sent links;
  • Convenient interface.

Flaws:

  • Insufficient level of security to eliminate phishing threats;
  • Scanning takes longer than other antivirus programs.

5. ESET NOD32 Smart Security

A comprehensive anti-virus application with the maximum available functionality. Scans, blocks and removes viruses, Trojans and adware. "ESET NOD32 Smart Security" is good because of the multi-stage protection used to combat viruses of any type.

Advantages and features of the antivirus program:

  • The presence of an internal custom firewall;
  • Advanced protection against botnets;
  • Allows you to create a boot disk for operating systems damaged by virus attacks;
  • The minimum percentage of positives from false threats;
  • Protection of banking operations and payments;
  • Effective antispam.

Flaws:

  • Reduced functionality of parental control;
  • Insufficient protection against phishing.

6. Avira Free Antivirus

A simple but powerful antivirus, notable for a number of features. The first is the use of cloud technologies, which makes it possible to resist the attacks of new, “fresh” viruses. The second is a modular design. After the initial installation, the software has a minimum of functionality. To configure new functions, you need to download individual antivirus blocks from the developer's website: in this way, the user independently configures the required level of security for his PC.

Advantages and features of the antivirus program:

  • Regular updating of databases;
  • Successfully blocks and disinfects files infected with macro viruses;
  • Automatic check of OS executable programs at each start;
  • It can work in parallel with other antiviruses without conflicts.

Flaws:

  • Not suitable for working with the built-in Windows Explorer browser;
  • Long overall check time;
  • Insufficient protection against phishing programs.

7. "Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition"

Version of the free anti-virus protection software. Compared to the paid version, it has a reduced functionality, however, even in this form, it does its job 100%. The software interface is clear and easy to configure, the database of virus signatures is constantly updated with new samples.

Advantages and features of the antivirus program:

  • High level of protection against common virus and Trojan programs;
  • Easy and quick to set up;
  • Minimal use of operating system resources;
  • Automatic blocking of sites with malicious code.

Flaws:

  • Fewer features than the paid version.

8 Comodo Antivirus

Another worthy software product for protecting information data. It works quickly, without failures, the virus copes with the majority almost instantly. Convenient initial setup: it is carried out step by step during the initial installation of the antivirus.

Advantages and features of the antivirus program:

  • Extensive anti-virus database;
  • The best indicator of heuristic check;
  • Increased level of preventive protection;
  • Possibility of automation of check.

Flaws:

  • There are failures when a modified malicious program code is detected;
  • Does not provide PC protection during visits to sites where virus activity is registered.

9. Dr.Web Antivirus

A worthy and time-tested complex antivirus with an effective block of heuristic file analysis. A proactive and multi-layered level of protection will help prevent most virus attacks. The replenishment of databases with virus signatures is entrusted to third-party anti-virus laboratories, which has a positive effect on the overall operation of the program.

Advantages and features of the antivirus program:

  • Availability of modules for checking mail, websites and connected external devices;
  • Advanced level of protection;
  • Fast speed of full and partial check;

Flaws:

  • Highly loads the system during a full scan;
  • It can independently block absolutely safe sites on the Internet.

10. Kaspersky Antivirus 2017

The brand is known to almost every inhabitant of the post-Soviet space. Like most other applications from this laboratory, the program is distributed on a paid basis. Provides reliable protection against virus attacks and helps recover damaged files.

Advantages and features of the antivirus program:

  • Daily database updates;
  • Additional modules for scanning incoming mail and checking the security of sent links;
  • Customizable spam and banner ad blocking;
  • Good phishing protection.

Flaws:

  • Consumes a large amount of OS resources;
  • There are failures when blocking links to sites with viral activity.

Which antivirus is better and which one to choose?

If you have a weak PC or tablet, then you should choose the antivirus that will use less hardware and software resources. For those who have a powerful computer, it is better to choose security software with the most extensive functionality. The final choice depends only on the preferences and needs of the user. All the antivirus programs described above provide the maximum level of security and differ from each other only in some nuances that will not be important for everyone.

Reading time: 7 minutes

In this review, we have collected for you the TOP 11 antiviruses for your computer in 2017. Use one of these antivirus programs and don't worry about your computer.

Digital technologies are developing, making people's lives easier. This demonstrates the automation of most household processes - payment for goods, orders through online stores, network banking. But hackers do not sleep, programming new viruses designed to disrupt the computer, steal personal data or violate the user's privacy (KeyLog programs, utilities that capture webcam videos).

According to statistics, at the end of 2016, viral activity increased. It is noteworthy that, without reducing the attacks on Windows systems, hackers are increasing pressure on Linux users. There is also a new virus for the Android mobile platform, which is notable for being embedded in system processes, thereby gaining full control over the device. The most common threat in 2016 was Trojans - the organizers of DDoS attacks, whose purpose is to cause a denial of service to the system.

In the third quarter of the year, leading anti-virus laboratories will present their new products. At first, everything looks nice - the devices will be protected from the intrusion of any threat. To confirm the honesty of antivirus software manufacturers, the world's leading laboratories studying Internet thunderstorms conduct their own tests, based on the results of which the TOP presented here is compiled.

Microsoft Security Essentials

Eleventh place in the ranking is occupied by the Microsoft product. It relatively recently appeared on the anti-virus software market, but it is developing rapidly, which could push out such unshakable titans as Symantec, which are not included in the rating.

Microsoft uses Dynamic Signature Service in its products, an innovative technology that helps protect your computer from new threats. Anti-Virus has a built-in module that analyzes the behavior of programs, identifying potentially dangerous ones. Like nothing new. But Essentials has a centralized database where information from all users is collected.

When a program that behaves suspiciously is analyzed on one computer, the results of the study will be available to everyone. If the utility turned out to be malicious, then Essentials will eliminate the threat, and then the virus signature will be instantly calculated and stopped in the bud. The performance of the system implies the collection of complete information from the user's device, which not everyone will like. But safety is above all!

Of the minuses note the following:

  • Poor performance with different types of viruses that are not yet in the database.
  • Infrequent signature updates.
  • Weak "engine", which will lead to a "fall" of the program in the event of a DDoS attack.

Eset NOD 32

One of the most popular utilities of its kind. Ranks 4th in terms of the number of downloads (from official sources). But is everything so wonderful? NOD has shown impressive results when tested by independent laboratories. Its strong point is blocking URLs leading to infected sites. Additionally, the software provides social media scanning and offers supportive security tools.

The anti-virus received a certificate for its high performance in the fight against software viruses. AV-Comparatives conducts tests in five different categories:

  1. Basic protection against malicious files.
  2. Detection of an attack when simulating a zero-day threat - files with expired signatures.
  3. Dynamic complex tests.
  4. Malware removal.
  5. Performance test.

According to the results of all checks, NOD received the highest score.

The impression was spoiled by the low performance on non-executable files. Here Eset showed poor results.

AhnLab V3 Internet Security

Many have not heard about this product, which is logical - until the latest version of the program, the test results were poor. But the 2017 version broke into the TOP. Ahnlab gives users a standard set to deal with:

  • Zero day viruses.
  • Trojan programs.
  • Advertising banners.

There is a proprietary TruFind protection module. Its task is to scan the computer system, identifying vulnerabilities and fix them.

Being Internet Security, the software is equipped with a firewall, an email scanner and a URL filter. The new version of the product has an interesting protocol that deletes all important information from the computer if it is impossible to fix a virus attack. An extravagant way to leave especially cunning intruders in the cold.

According to the test results, the program demonstrated a 100% rate when working with zero-day viruses. This indicator is identical to the world market leaders in the production of anti-virus software. False positive tests showed a phenomenal result - 3 false positives out of 500,000 signatures. Minus AhnLab - performance. Therefore, only 9th place in the ranking.

FortiClient

Works great for phishing attacks. Test laboratories noted that the program is one of the best in protecting local networks. All software is provided free of charge.

FortiClient is a modern approach to network access. The program has the following built-in utilities:

  • Parental control.
  • Blocking potentially malicious URLs.
  • Blocking fraudulent sites.

The anti-virus has successfully passed two main tests - checking the operation of files with outdated and new signatures. FortiClient received the highest Advanced+ score on both scores.

The product occupies the 8th place in the list due to the fact that it is only a component of the security complex. FortiClient is most effective when it works in tandem with the FortiGate firewall.

AVG Free Antivirus

Demonstrated good performance both when tested by independent laboratories and licensed ones. Among the advantages of the software are:

  • An impressive level of protection against phishing.
  • High performance.
  • Web traffic protection.
  • Ad blocking.
  • A utility that determines the speed of the computer and, if necessary, optimizes it.

A worthy product, if not for the recent scandal. It turned out that the privacy policy contains a clause according to which software manufacturers can collect the history of the user's browser and search queries.

Scandal aside, AVG is a fairly powerful computer protection machine, which is confirmed by test data from laboratories. But to rise higher in the ranking does not allow low, in comparison with other programs, performance.

Trend Micro

The 2017 version of Internet Security handles malicious files (executable/sleeping) and spam with a bang. Ratings from independent labs are somewhere between good and excellent.
A bonus is the presence of a spam filter, which has its own database. The work of the antivirus spreads globally - links leading to infected sites on social networks are blocked.

Trend Micro is a young product that has just started participating in serious trials. When checking, complex massive attacks were carried out, with which the defense coped, having received the highest score. But Trend Micro did not participate in all tests due to the disagreement of the developers. But where the test was successful, the antivirus showed above-average results. Again, insufficient performance prevented us from climbing higher.

F-Secure

Being Internet Security, it does not have its own firewall, which makes life difficult for users. And the parental controls leave a lot to be desired. Has a 75% test score. The main reason for this is false positives. If not for them, the antivirus took one of the leading positions.

The main advantage of the program is the behavioral analysis detector. Unlike similar utilities, it did not react to 20 licensed programs where there were no virus signatures.
From the side of users, annoying pop-up window and clunky interface are noted.

panda free

This product turned out to be worse than commercial projects at the top of the rating, but many ordinary paid antiviruses were far behind. This conclusion was made based on the tests of licensed laboratories. Independent experts did not check.

The main test (AV-TEST) includes three categories:

  • Protection level.
  • The degree of impact on operating system performance.
  • Ease of use of the software when affected by false positives.

The antivirus received the highest rating for the quality of cleaning the system from malware, and a “good” rating in comprehensive testing - false positives summed up.
The disadvantages of protection include a poor anti-phishing module. But this can be offset by a good score for blocking malware, and an excellent score for detecting dangerous URLs.

AVIRA Free

In third place is the best among free antiviruses. Showed decent results according to independent experts, who noted excellent performance in blocking infected URLs. On the test, AV-TEST scored 18 out of 18 and the highest score in comprehensive testing.

The disadvantages include cleaning up malware infections. They also note weak protection against phishing. But this is a free product. If the user does not want to spend money on computer protection, then AVIRA Free is the best option.

Kaspersky Anti-Virus

The software interface has changed little compared to the previous version. And the defense has become even stronger. This is proven by numerous tests, where Kaspersky received the highest score. Experts focus on excellent anti-phishing results and additional protection tools that will fully ensure security.

Kaspersky received the highest score in a unique test, where for several days the system was continuously attacked by the same viruses.

The initial check of the computer takes no more than an hour. Subsequent scans are faster. This test shows the ability of the antivirus to intelligently weed out uninfected files, which has an amazing effect on performance. But there are products with better results.

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus

  • Password manager with secure scripts.
  • System vulnerability scanner.
  • Browser safe operation module.
  • Ransomware protection.

In absolutely all tests, Bitdefender showed the highest score. There is nothing to add except that this is the best personal computer protection that combines performance, low system load and efficiency.

3.7 (73.33%) 3 votes.


As you know, the Windows 10 operating system is equipped with the Security Center -Windows Defender, which does an excellent job with viruses and other types of malware. Many users will say that Defender is all they need, while others want a more comprehensive antivirus package to keep their PC safe.

If you're interested in making your computer or laptop more secure, check out our roundup of the best antivirus software available in 2017-2018.

In this review, we did not write about antiviruses that you probably once heard about: Dr.Web, AVG, Avast, Avira. We tried to figure out which antivirus software in 2017 is really responsible for security, and not just clogs your PC and corresponds to price / quality.

The Bitdefender engine is one of the most accurate and reliable, as verified by all major independent testers. The antivirus is paid, the annual subscription is $39.99. In a world where free antivirus software is available, an annual fee can seem expensive to the average consumer. However, the price is offset by a plethora of benefits.

Web filtering blocks access to malicious sites, a secure browser protects your online financial transactions, and a built-in password manager automatically fills in credit card details on web forms. And finally, the excellent anti-phishing module warns you about malicious links in your search engine results and blocks access to dangerous sites.

However, there are a few issues - antivirus requires more resources than any other and may conflict with some programs, however Bitdefender Antivirus Plus 2018 is still an attractive package offering excellent detection rates, great performance and more than enough bonus features to justify price.

ESET NOD32 Antivirus

If you rate an antivirus by the number of features, then in the case of ESET NOD32 Antivirus, you may be disappointed. No firewall, password manager, vulnerability scanner, or any of the extra suites that other antiviruses have.

However, this does not mean that the package lacks power, just that it is more focused on the basics of antivirus. ESET NOD32 Antivirus provides real-time malware protection, virus protection, URL filtering to block malicious websites and modules to prevent attacks using PowerShell and malicious scripts. The Device Control module limits the risk of infection by other devices by controlling access to USB drives, external hard drives, optical media, and even devices connected via Bluetooth and FireWire.

ESET NOD32 antivirus is not intended for beginners. The interface is not informative, some functions are not very clear, and even help is not always exactly helpful. However, advanced users will appreciate the power and configuration of ESET. The above-average protection does a good job of keeping things secure, and the lightweight design ensures that the program doesn't require a lot of resources. Antivirus provides the first 30 days of use for free, then you can pay monthly or annually. Monthly subscription will cost $3 (1 device). Annual more profitable - $25 (2 devices).

Kasperky Antivirus is a security package that meets the basic requirements: web filtering blocks dangerous URLs, accurate antivirus detects and removes threats, monitoring technologies track and recover malicious activities.

We have consistently found that Kaspersky is one of the best at blocking malware and removing it from an infected system, and is regularly ranked by sites like AV-Comparatives.

The program is easy to use. The well-designed interface has the right amount of buttons and options - not too simple, but not complicated or intimidating - and there are plenty of on-screen instructions to explain how everything works. Even a beginner will feel at home.

The price for the program is average. If you are looking for an antivirus at an affordable price, try the product with maximum protection - Kaspersky Security Total Security. The annual subscription price is $33 (2 devices).

Norton AntiVirus Basic is a high-end malware hunter that can protect your PC on its own, but also offers a lot of customization for those who need it.

For example, one of the best URL blockers distracts you from malicious websites. If he misses something, the excellent file reputation service immediately recognizes suspicious downloads.

If you are a more practical user, you can easily perform an on-demand scan. You can set up and save custom checks so that you only check the areas you need.

There may be issues with some browser extensions. The bundled Norton Identity Safe is a handy password manager when it works properly. However, we have found that the latest version of Chrome sometimes stops working for no apparent reason. We've seen a lot of reviewers reporting similar issues, so there really is a real issue here.

However, you don't have to use Identity Safe, and the core features of Norton AntiVirus Basic are provided on all fronts: it's easy to use, it doesn't require special settings, it's highly rated by testing labs, and it's carefully designed to have the least impact on your system's performance. You can now purchase a discounted annual subscription for $20 instead of $50.

Real-time malware detection, fast cloud-based scanning, URL filtering to block malicious websites - Panda Antivirus Pro has all the benefits you'd expect from a serious antivirus suite.

But this is only the beginning. A simple two-way firewall helps protect your system, an application control system can detect exactly what is running on your PC, stopping even some brand new and undiscovered malware, and a virtual keyboard helps you enter sensitive data without being caught by keyloggers. There's even a tool to create a bootable USB drive ready to remove the most stubborn threats.

Some of these bonus features are relatively simple. The Panda firewall does its job and can make everything more secure.

Simplicity at least makes everything very easy to use. The options are organized in a simple Windows 10-like interface, with all the main modules just a click or two away. Even the firewall should not know anything more than your current network location: "Home", "Work" or "Public place".

There aren't a lot of Panda test scores from independent labs right now, but the numbers we've seen show the company provides good protection, and overall Panda Antivirus Pro does a good job of keeping malware at bay.

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