Antivirus Software

Comparing the Best Antivirus Software

One doesn't have to be an expert in the IT world to know that computer viruses are continuously becoming more capable. Certain software that might have had sufficient protection against online attackers just a few months ago could now be totally vulnerable to today's most advanced viruses. While antivirus software is a must-have for anyone who owns a computer, it takes a regular influx of updates to help keep the device protected against the latest and most advanced threats that are floating around.

In addition, this need for constant updating, the RAM limitations for laptops and PCs means that these applications have to be light when it comes to memory usage. After all, this software isn't viable if normal work can't still be conducted on the computer when regular scanning takes place. While important in their own right, these certainly aren't the only considerations that users should bear in mind when looking for the most capable antivirus software.

A good number of the antivirus software listed above, like Bitdefender and Avast, have already risen to the popularity of being household names. Each program has proven capable of detecting and warding off viruses, but how do they compare against each other? Which factors stand out among some competitors and which fall to the wayside?

These applications have shown to be among the highest recommended and sought-after. They're divided based on payment type into free and paid editions, with the former starting in the first section. Special features will be detailed for every antivirus software, in addition to any characteristics or advantages that make it stand out compared to the others.

The Best Way to Look for Antivirus Software

Perhaps the most pressing factor for any user to consider when looking for the best antivirus software is if add-ons are going to be a critical factor or not. If the answer is 'yes', then applications with attached fees versus free options will be ideal. The vast majority of antivirus applications that run a subscription are going to have features that go above and beyond the traditional scope of what these programs did in the past. In fact, many aren't technically considered antivirus programs. Instead, they're more accurately described as security packages. VPNs, special banking protections, and password managers are a few of the more common features found on paid antivirus programs. Typically, software suites are split up into different sections that provide more widgets and features over another. For instance, one antivirus option might offer limited VPN but zero-day protection at the same time.

Free antivirus programs are significantly more basic. This software typically has one version that's deprived of any paid updates or features. There might be few perks aimed at encouraging consumers to try the paid version. It's always a good idea to test out these upgraded versions when possible. There are many antivirus programs offering a complete one-month trial for free. Credit card information might not even be required. Free antivirus software is great for those on a budget or for anyone who doesn't need all of the bells and whistles that come with paid subscriptions.

Understanding the Threats

Individual users certainly risk being attacked or infected by hackers, but there are some regions that are inherently riskier when talking about malware when compared to others. Some software is easily narrowed down when it's known what kind of threats easily penetrate a consumer's system or weaknesses that are present in that system. For example, if ransomware hacks have an increased likelihood of being encountered when loading or browsing a certain site, then an antivirus program that can block certain URLs might work.

Antivirus Programs for Business Use

Whether a company is a small start-up or an international conglomerate, it's critical to implement secure and strong antivirus software. In the 21st century with everything online, network security has become a primary concern for employees, investors, and customers. Everyone's seen breaking stories of security breaches in major companies, but hackers have always targeted smaller businesses too and will continue to do so. In fact, small companies are seen as sitting ducks for many online criminals looking to steal financial information, addresses, and other customer info. Hackers have also developed ways to assume control of an entire network to lock a business out of their operations. This often becomes like a virtual hostage situation where companies don't get back in without paying large sums of money.

Online hackers have good reason to target small businesses. In reality, too many businesses continue to use subpar antivirus programs. A greater number don't take the time to set up some basic security measures such as cybersecurity software or a firewall. This leaves company networks wide open for any hacker who happens to target that business. It's understandable that some companies remain reticent about establishing these security measures since the software can seem complicated. However, it's important to remember that a network is only as secure as the employee with the lowest security measures in place. Something as simple as a password manager can have a significant impact when attempting to keep security tighter. It's only a matter of time before companies attract online hackers like moths to a flame without implementing some form of security solution.

Fortunately, business owners don't have to dig into their savings or put their company's budget on the line to get a reputable and effective firewall and antivirus software. Businesses can even get some protection from ransomware or malware threats when using free antivirus programs. Although, as with anything, consumers get what they pay for.

As people start using their mobile devices more often for work, banking, and other important functions, more antivirus protection software is moving to also include these devices under their services. This helps to keep a user's phone and PC protected from any lurking cybercriminals who might try to take advantage of any personal information.

Summary

Each and every one of the antivirus programs mentioned in the reviews share one important feature in common: They're designed specifically to detect malware quickly and efficiently no matter what other features are included and at what price. This should be seen as a positive since it allows some applications to test new solutions from time to time. In general, a computer that uses software protection is safer to use overall. With this in mind, readers really can't go wrong when choosing software from this list.