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Updated August 2025

Best Free Antivirus Software 2025

Stay Secure Online: At Home and On the Go

Whether you’re guarding your privacy, preventing data loss, or protecting your family’s devices, we’ve got you covered. Compare expert-vetted antivirus tools that deliver real peace of mind.

1
9.8
Exceptional

TotalAVBest Online Security

Best value for money antivirus for all devices and operating systems.

Get 80% Off the Premium Plan
Offer expires soon

  • Multi device compatibility (windows, iOS, android)
  • Includes free ad-block tool
  • 2 free licenses for smartphone and tablet
  • Reputable threat protection
9.8
Exceptional

Get 80% Off the Premium Plan
Offer expires soon

2
9.5
Excellent

Guardio

Best free antivirus with ID Theft protection and personal data safety features.

Start Your Free Scan Now!

  • 7-Day free trial, all devices included
  • Protects browsing, social media, email & SMS
  • 100% security against scams and phishing
  • Uses advanced AI to block real-time threats
9.5
Excellent

Start Your Free Scan Now!

3
8.7
Good

Norton 360

  • Includes minimum 1 PC, Mac, Tablet, or Mobile
  • Plans start from $29.99 per annum
  • Malware, ransomware, and hacking protection
  • Includes password manager
8.7
Good
4
8.3
Good

Avira

  • Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
  • Light impact on system resources.
  • Regular updates for ongoing protection.
  • Additional security tools in the free version.
8.3
Good
5
8
Good

Avast One Essential

  • Easy-to-use and illustrative User Interface
  • Many online privacy-focused features
  • Comes with a VPN service
  • Can speed up your PC
8
Good
6
7.5
Good

AVG

  • Plans starting $3.33/Month
  • 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
  • Excellent Malware detection Rates
  • Secures up to 10 Devices
7.5
Good

Your Antivirus Buying Checklist

Simple daily tasks, like opening email, visiting websites, or downloading files, can invite hidden threats: viruses, spyware, ransomware, and more. Antivirus software is your first line of defense: it detects and removes malware, protecting your data and privacy as you browse, shop, or work online.

Here’s what to consider when choosing the right protection:

1. Detection and Removal Performance

The most important factor is malware detection: how quickly and accurately the software catches threats while avoiding false positives. These brands consistently score well in independent tests.

Recommended for detection and removal performance

2. System Performance Impact

Choose an antivirus with low system impact so your scans and real-time protection don’t slow down your device—whether it’s your work laptop or shared family computer.

Recommended system performance impact

3. Real-Time Protection and Updates

New threats emerge every day. Look for software offering real-time scanning (also called on‑access protection) and frequent automatic updates.

Recommended for real-time protection and updates

4. Extra Protection Features That Add Value

Many plans include helpful extras—like web protection or safe browsing to filter unsafe sites, built-in VPNs for safe public Wi‑Fi, Ad blockers or system tune-up tools.

Recommended for extra protection features

5. Multi-Device Coverage

Make sure your antivirus plan covers all devices you need: ideally, Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS under one license. Multi-device compatibility means you won’t have to buy separate plans for each family member.

Recommended for multi-device coverage

6. Family-Friendly Protection

If your household includes kids, teens, or shared devices, look for family-friendly protections like web filtering, safe search, and content blocking. These tools help keep children away from inappropriate or risky sites, giving you peace of mind without constant oversight.

Recommended for family-friendly protection

7. Easy Setup and Use

The best antivirus software should be easy to install and maintain. Look for products with clear dashboards, one-click scans, and automatic protection—ideal for all ages, from tech beginners to grandparents.

Recommended for easy setup and use

8. Getting the Best Value

Free tools offer basic protection, but premium plans bundle extras like VPNs, identity monitoring, breach alerts, and multi-device coverage. Look at features per dollar, and watch for first-year deals or renewal price jumps.

Recommended for getting the best value

9. Reliable Support When You Need It

Choose a vendor known for consistent protection and reliable support (live chat, phone and email help).

Recommended for support