Computer viruses are becoming increasingly common, posing a threat to your device and personal data. To protect yourself, it’s important to have antivirus software installed on your computer. The good news is that there are many free options available. In this article, we will discuss the five best free antivirus software programs of 2023. So, let’s dive in!
5 Best Free Antivirus Software of 2023
1. AVG AntiVirus Free
With a solid reputation in the US market, AVG AntiVirus Free has been a go-to name for free antivirus software for nearly a quarter-century. It offers real-time malware and antivirus scans, quarantine options, targeted and deep scans, as well as the ability to check external drives for suspicious programs. While AVG offers a paid plan, the basic virus-scanning tools in the free version work well without any significant issues.
2. Avira Free Security
Avira Free Security goes beyond antivirus scanning and includes additional features to enhance performance and safeguard privacy. It offers options to clean up your system, uninstall outdated apps, delete unnecessary files, and even set up a VPN and password manager. Although some features, such as the tracking cookie cleaner, are locked behind a paywall, the antivirus solution itself is effective and efficient.
3. Bitdefender Antivirus Free
Bitdefender, a reputable company known for its paid security products, also provides a free antivirus solution. It offers a minimalist interface without any unnecessary upsell offers. Bitdefender Antivirus Free focuses on keeping your computer clean and virus-free, but it lacks additional features such as ransomware protection, system optimization, or a virtual private network that are included in the paid plans.
4. Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes, a well-known name in the antivirus industry, offers a free tier of its antivirus products. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac PCs and also has mobile apps for Android and iOS devices. During scans, Malwarebytes can automatically quarantine suspicious software or apps. The interface is user-friendly, and you can easily view reports on previous scans and whether any suspicious files were found and removed. However, some advanced features are only available in the premium version.
5. Microsoft Defender
Microsoft Defender Antivirus, formerly known as Windows Defender, is a built-in solution for Windows devices. It becomes active if you do not have a third-party antivirus or if your subscription expires. While Microsoft Defender performs well in some lab tests, it may not be the most effective option overall. Its protection against fraudulent and malicious websites is limited to the Edge browser only. If you are looking for a more comprehensive solution, there are better options available.
Final Words
These are some of the best free antivirus software programs available to protect your device from malware and other threats. You can choose from options above and you’re sure to make right choice. Assessing your specific needs and preferences will help you determine which one is the best fit for you.
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