Types of Antivirus Software: What Works Best

Staying safe online is a hefty challenge. Thousands of new viruses are developed each day, unleashed upon the unknowing digital world. There are a lot of options out there, and it can be hard to know what to choose based on the different types of antivirus software.

If
you’re interested in learning about the different types of antivirus software
and what works best, check out the 10 recommendations below.

1. Norton Antivirus

Operating
System: Windows, Mac, Android and iOS

Norton
Antivirus Plus is a yearly subscription with features like
real-time threat protection, smart firewalls, secure cloud back-up and a safe password manager.
The brand has worldwide recognition as a reliable Antivirus software and is
suitable for beginners to intermediate level. On the other hand, users say
scans significantly impact computer performance.

2. Avast Antivirus

Operating
System: Windows, Mac and Android

This
virus protection software is comprehensive, easy to use and completely free.
Backed by machine-learning, Avast can scan for
performance issues, detect malware, securely store passwords. It can also switch into Do
Not Disturb Mode, which blocks annoying pop-ups when gaming or watching movies.
While there are paid-for components, the free version of this software offers
everything needed to stay safe — plus, it doesn’t slow your computer down.

3. Adaware Antivirus

Operating
System: Windows

Consider
Adaware Antivirus your first line of defense against cyber threats like malware
and hackers. This free software blocks and eliminates viruses, ransomware, spyware and
more. All files are scanned before downloading to prevent damage. Dangerous
websites and annoying ads are automatically blocked. However, advanced users
may find the free features too limited for their needs.

4. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus

Operating
System: Windows, Mac and Android

Bitdefender
Antivirus Plus 2020 is an all-inclusive security package that protects against
cyber threats like worms, Trojans, viruses, rootkits, spyware and much more. Features include
behavioral analysis, phishing protection, automatic scanning and secure file
storage. While ideal for the average person, advanced users may want more
control from their antivirus software, such as the ability to schedule scans.

5. Trend Micro Antivirus

Operating
System: Windows and Mac

Trend
Micro Antivirus gives you peace of mind when surfing the web. It blocks
malicious websites attempting to steal personal data and guards your email
against spam. With an interface that’s intuitive and easy to use, you can stay safe against
e-threats like viruses, spyware and ransomware. However, some users have mentioned issues
with over-detection, where the software flags secure, trustworthy websites as
unsafe.

6. VoodooShield

Operating
System: Windows

According
to VoodooShield, traditional antivirus software can’t keep up with the
multitude of viruses and malware created each day. Their software, however, is
comprised of three components — a whitelisting a lock, a machine-learning decision engine and multi-engine blacklist
scan. When switched into ON Mode, all running software is analyzed in
real-time, blocking threats as soon as they appear.

7. Panda Dome Essential

Operating
System: Windows, Mac and Android

Panda
Dome’s antivirus software works on a number of devices, including smartphones.
Since everything operates in the cloud, scans are quick and won’t slow down
device performance. Threats like malware and spyware are detected and removed
in real-time. You can also use the software — plus a USB drive — to create a
free data recovery kit. Be aware that the free version of this software, as
opposed to the premium, contains ads.

8. Webroot SecureAnywhere

Operating
System: Windows and Mac

This
subscription antivirus software is fully cloud-based, able to complete scans
quickly without bogging down performance. Webroot securely stores usernames,
passwords and other personal data, keeping it safe from keyloggers and spyware. Websites,
emails and downloaded files are scanned in real-time to prevent phishing
attempts. Many claim the software’s interface is not user-friendly, though an
experienced user may have no issue.

9. Kaspersky

Operating
System: Windows, Mac, Android and iOS

Kaspersky
is a well-known and trusted software that is simple to set up and use, ideal for beginner to
intermediate levels. It blocks viruses, ransomware, cryptolockers and spyware
without hindering device speed. Plus, the software encrypts transactions and
blocks websites from tracking browsing history. While this software is
well-rounded, advanced users may find the features lacking.

10. Sophos Home

Operating
system: Windows, Mac

With Sophos Home, you can protect up to 10 computers in your home from phishing attempts, viruses, bots, Trojans, potentially unwanted apps (PUAs) and much more. Files, photos and passwords are encrypted to prevent ransom attempts. With deep-learning AI, Sophos Home can detect new types of malware before it has the chance to execute. Advanced users may find the software offers limited control, including the inability to schedule scans.

Different Types of Antivirus Software

If
you want to keep your computer — and all of your personal information — safe,
antivirus software is a must. There are thousands of options on the market,
some free and others paid. Check out the different types of antivirus software
above to determine what works best for you.