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Updated April 2026

Top Antivirus Software for Windows 2026

Protect Your PC, from Inbox to Browser

Find expert-vetted antivirus for Windows that offer real-time protection without slowing you down.

1
9.9
Exceptional

Norton 360Best Overall

World’s #1 award-winning cyber safety brand. Enjoy 100% virus protection at an unbeatable price.

Save £60. Works out as £2.50/mo!
Limited Time Sale

  • Protects up to 5 devices — Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android
  • 60-day money-back guarantee
  • Includes VPN, password manager, and deepfake protection
  • Easy setup and 24/7 support
9.9
Exceptional

Save £60. Works out as £2.50/mo!
Limited Time Sale

2
9.6
Excellent

TotalAV

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

Get 80% off on 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
9.6
Excellent

Get 80% off on Premium Plan
Offer expires soon

3
9.5
Excellent

Bitdefender

Trusted and Top-Rated Antivirus for 10+ Years and Counting.

Limited Time Sale
Save upto 50%!

  • Scan upto 5 Devices (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS)
  • Includes Password Manager, VPN and ID Theft Protection
  • Awarded best high-performance antivirus for 2 consecutive years
  • System Wide Ad Blocker
9.5
Excellent

Limited Time Sale
Save upto 50%!

4
9
Good

Malwarebytes

Best for securing your personal info on internet and identity theft protection for 2026

Get Free Digital Footprint Report
& Claim 50% Discount

  • 60 Day Money Back Guarantee
  • Plans starting less than $4/month
  • Best in class Personal Data Remover
  • Includes VPN, ID Theft Protection & Ad Blocker
9
Good

Get Free Digital Footprint Report
& Claim 50% Discount

5
8.5
Good

McAfee Total Protection

  • Single device plan starts at $29.99/year
  • Includes a VPN and a password manager
  • Keen and knowledgeable support staff
  • Easy to install and use
8.5
Good
6
8
Good

Avast One Premium

  • Plans start from $4.2 per month
  • 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
  • Secures up to 5 devices
  • Unlimited VPN access to over 50 locations
8
Good

How to Choose Antivirus Software for Windows

An effective antivirus does more than block viruses. It keeps you safe from scam websites, fake emails, and apps trying to steal your info. It also helps keep your PC running smoothly—so you can browse, work, and play without worry.

Here’s what to look for, plus trusted picks for each need.

1. Protection from All Kinds of Threats

Windows PCs are the #1 target for online threats. You need antivirus that blocks viruses, spyware, and ransomware before they can cause trouble—even the ones that haven’t been seen before.

Recommended for protection from all kinds of threats

2. Won’t Slow Down Your PC

The best antivirus works quietly in the background. It won’t slow you down or interrupt what you’re doing—whether you’re watching videos, playing games, or getting work done.

Recommended option’s won’t slow down your PC

3. Always-On Protection and Updates

New threats pop up every day. Your antivirus should protect you in real time and update itself automatically so you’re never left exposed.

Recommended for always-on protection and updates

4. Stops Scam Websites & Fake Emails

Threats hide under the most innocent-looking URLs. The right antivirus warns you before you land on a dangerous site or open a scam email.

Recommended for safe browsing and anti-phishing tools

5. Extra Features That Actually Help

Some antivirus plans include extras that can really help—like a VPN for safe public Wi‑Fi, a password manager, or privacy tools that keep your info secure.

Recommended for extra features

6. Covers All Your Devices

You probably use more than one device. Many antivirus plans protect your laptop, phone, tablet, and even other PCs—all under one account.

Recommended to covers all your devices

7. Easy to Set Up and Use

No one wants to wrestle with confusing menus. A good antivirus is easy to install and takes care of the hard stuff in the background.

Recommended for easy to set up and use

8. Great Protection at a Fair Price

Good antivirus doesn’t have to be expensive. Look for plans that offer real protection, useful features, and fair renewal prices.

Recommended for great protection at a fair price

9. Reliable Support When You Need Help

If something goes wrong or you need help installing, it’s good to know support is there when you need it—by phone, chat, or email.

Recommended for support

Limited Time Sale: just £2.50/mo!

#1 Ranked Antivirus Trusted Worldwide

  • Save £60 in year 1, just £2.50/month
  • Covers upto 5 devices
Excellent Stars 55392 reviews on Trustpilot