Protecting a Windows PC requires reliable antivirus software for Windows. These days there are thousands of new malware strains (over 560,000 new pieces of malware per day) and ransomware is rampant – every minute, four companies fall victim to ransomware attacks. Without a strong security solution, your computer is highly vulnerable to viruses, spyware, and hackers.
Modern antivirus suites guard your system against malicious files, block phishing sites, and offer real-time antivirus protection. In this guide we explain key security features and present the 10 best antivirus tools for Windows, from free virus protection tools to premium security software. Each of these solutions scores highly in independent tests (many achieved a perfect 100% protection rate in AV-TEST evaluations).
Why Windows PCs Need Robust Antivirus Protection
Windows remains the most targeted platform for malware and ransomware – 93% of all ransomware arrives via Windows executables. With Windows accounting for roughly 75% of desktop OS market share, criminals focus their attacks here. Independent studies show that nearly half a billion ransomware attacks hit organizations worldwide in recent years. Even home users are at risk: malicious software can steal personal files or lock you out by encryption. A quality antivirus solution performs constant on-access scanning and uses cloud-based intelligence to block new and emerging threats before they runlearn.
Key benefits of antivirus protection include:
- Real-time protection: Actively scan files, downloads and email for viruses, trojans, and spyware. Most top suites detect threats instantly as you browse or open attachments.
- Ransomware shielding: Many solutions include specialized ransomware protection to prevent malicious encryption of your data. For example, Bitdefender and Avira bundle anti-ransomware layers.
- Cloud antivirus solutions: Modern AV leverages cloud servers and AI to recognize new malware signatures faster than signature-only approacheslearn. Cloud protection (used by Windows Defender and others) provides “near-real-time” updates against zero-day threatslearn. antivirus software for Windows.
- Cross-platform support: Premium suites often protect Windows, macOS, Android and iOS devices under one license – useful if you also own phones or Macs.
- Performance optimization: Gaming or “silent” modes let you run scans with minimal CPU impact. Top antivirus products maintain very low system overhead (ESET, Bitdefender, and Windows Defender earned AV-TEST’s highest usability scores) antivirus software for Windows.
- Lightweight apps: Many antivirus tools (like ESET and Avira) are streamlined to run quietly in the background without slowing your system, earning “Advanced+” performance awards.
Ultimately, even Windows 10/11 has a built-in antivirus (Microsoft Defender), but adding a full-featured security suite gives extra layers (firewall, web protection, password manager, etc.) for comprehensive defense.
Key Features to Look for in an Antivirus Suite
Before choosing, check that any antivirus software for Windows you install offers:
- High malware detection rates: Look for products that scored 100% in independent lab tests (AV-TEST, AV-Comparatives). For example, Bitdefender, Kaspersky, Norton, McAfee and even Windows Defender all earned perfect scores in June 2025’s Windows tests antivirus software for Windows.
- Real-time scanning and heuristics: The ability to catch unknown threats using behavior analysis. Most top AVs offer advanced heuristics and behavioral blockers to catch zero-day malware antivirus software for Windows.
- Anti-ransomware protection: Ransomware protection software often includes features like protected folder shielding (to lock important files) and offline backups.
- Cloud-based threat intelligence: As noted, cloud antivirus (like Microsoft’s MAPS servicelearn.) quickly distributes new signatures to all users. Ensure cloud scanning can be enabled for better protection.
- Web and email safeguards: Anti-phishing and malicious URL blocking are essential. Many suites intercept dangerous links in real time. Trend Micro’s PayGuard, for example, protects online banking sessions.
- Firewall and network monitoring: A good suite either integrates with the Windows firewall or provides its own intelligent firewall to block suspicious traffic. F-Secure and Bitdefender include network protection tools to secure Wi-Fi.
- Light footprint: Check resource usage (many AV vendors advertise “lightweight”). AV-TEST’s Performance score reflects impact on system speed; top products like ESET and Bitdefender scored the best.
- Additional features: Cloud backup, secure VPN, password managers, and even identity theft protection may be bundled (e.g. Norton 360’s LifeLock feature). Use bullet lists to compare these extras antivirus software for Windows.
- Cross-platform and enterprise support: If needed, see if the antivirus offers versions for Mac, Android, etc. Enterprise antivirus software solutions (Bitdefender GravityZone, Symantec Endpoint, etc.) are also available for business use.
Below we examine the top 10 antivirus software solutions for Windows (as of 2025), covering free and paid options, with their standout features and why each earned a spot on our list antivirus software for Windows.
1. Bitdefender Total Security
Bitdefender consistently ranks as the best overall antivirus for Windows. It earned AV-TEST’s top “Advanced+” awards with 100% detection and top usability. Bitdefender uses multi-layered protection (heuristics, machine learning and cloud scanning) to catch both known and new threats. In addition to core virus and malware defense, Total Security includes a password manager, secure browser (Safepay) for online banking, an unlimited VPN, and a ransomware remediation feature. Users benefit from a game/movie mode that pauses background scans, preserving speed during full-screen tasks. Bitdefender supports Windows 11/10 (as well as macOS, Android and iOS), making it a cross-platform antivirus choice. Its impact on performance is minimal – it earned AV-Comparatives’ “Best Performance” award.
Key features: real-time malware and ransomware protection, cloud scanning, anti-phishing, anti-fraud, Wi-Fi security advisor, parental controls antivirus software for Windows.
Why we like it: Unbeatable detection rates and a rich feature set for both novices and power users. Bitdefender is also available in a free antivirus version and an enterprise edition antivirus software for Windows.
2. Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton (formerly Symantec) is ideal for families and multiple devices. Its Norton 360 (Deluxe or Select) scored a perfect 6/6 on protection, performance and usability. Norton 360 offers comprehensive real-time malware protection plus an easy-to-use interface. It includes a full-featured firewall, 50 GB of cloud backup, and an unlimited VPN to protect privacy on public Wi-Fi. Notably, Norton bundles identity theft protection (LifeLock) and credit monitoring in some plans, making it a premium online security software. A password manager is included as well.
Key features: Anti-malware engine, firewall, ransomware rollback (auto-backups), SafeCam (blocks webcam hacking), webcam/anti-tracking, and the LifeLock identity suite.
Why we like it: Excellent scan performance with bonus identity/backup tools. Norton supports up to 5–10 devices (Windows, Mac, Android, iOS) under one license, giving full cross-platform antivirus coverage.
3. McAfee+ Premium (Total Protection)
McAfee’s flagship suite delivers solid all-around protection. AV-TEST awarded McAfee Perfect scores. It uses global threat intelligence to block viruses, spyware, and ransomware. McAfee includes a personal firewall, file shredder, encrypted storage vault, and a Network Manager to secure home Wi-Fi. Its standout extras are an unlimited VPN, a spam/email filter, and identity monitoring tools for U.S. users. McAfee’s interface is user-friendly, and the software offers 24/7 customer support antivirus software for Windows.
Key features: Real-time antivirus, firewall, anti-spam, parental controls, and device optimization tools. The premium plan adds dark web monitoring and credit monitoring.
Why we like it: Broad device support (Windows, Mac, mobile) with zero-config protection and identity theft safeguards. McAfee’s Total Protection often comes bundled with new PCs. It’s also available as McAfee Endpoint Security for enterprise use antivirus software for Windows.
4. Kaspersky Total Security
Kaspersky is a powerhouse in malware detection, with perfect scores in labs. Total Security offers multi-layered antivirus defense (signature, heuristic, and emulation) plus advanced anti-hacking tech. Features include real-time scanning, anti-ransomware, webcam and privacy protection, and a secure payment browser. Notably, Kaspersky provides an unlimited VPN (with premium license) and robust parental controls. Its interface is straightforward, and it runs well on older hardware.
Key features: Antivirus, anti-phishing, firewall, password manager, encrypted backup, and an advanced system watcher for unknown threats antivirus software for Windows.
Why we like it: State-of-the-art malware/anti-phishing protection and privacy tools. Kaspersky also offers a free anti-ransomware tool (separate) that uses cloud-assisted behavior blocking. Widely used in both home and business (Kaspersky EDR) contexts antivirus software for Windows.
5. Avast One (Avast Free/Pro)
Avast has long been a popular free antivirus. Its Avast One suite (which includes Avast Free/Pro) received top marks in recent tests. Avast’s engine uses cloud heuristics to catch new threats. Besides core protection, Avast provides a gaming mode and a passive mode to avoid conflict with other security apps. Premium upgrades add a VPN, smart firewall, and enhanced ransomware shield. Unique tools include a built-in software updater and a browser-integrated password vault.
Key features: On-demand and scheduled scans, behavior-based threat detection, malicious URL blocker, and Sandbox mode for suspicious files.
Why we like it: Even the free version offers solid virus protection tools (with Adware/Spyware removal). The paid Avast One adds privacy tools (VPN, anti-tracking). Avast also owns AVG (similar engine), so you benefit from their combined threat intelligence. It supports Windows, Mac, Android and even Linux antivirus software for Windows.
6. Avira Free Security / Prime
Avira is a Swiss security app known for its powerful free offering. AV-TEST consistently gave Avira Internet Security perfect scores. Avira Free includes antivirus, ad/tracker blocker, and a free limited VPN. The paid Prime version bundles unlimited VPN, advanced firewall (phishing protection), and network security scanner. Avira’s malware engine is lightweight, often impacting system speed less than rivals. It has one of the fastest scans in the business antivirus software for Windows.
Key features: Real-time scanning, heuristic detection, PUA (Potentially Unwanted Application) blocker, and a software updater.
Why we like it: Exceptional lightweight antivirus app with strong detection. Avira’s free tier makes it an excellent free virus protection tool for Windows. The interface is clean, and it also includes handy tools like password manager and PC optimizer. Supports cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS).
7. Malwarebytes Premium
Malwarebytes specializes in catching malware missed by others. It earned AV-TEST top ratings for detection. While it’s often used alongside another AV, Malwarebytes Premium offers full real-time protection. It excels at cleaning up active infections (adware, worms, trojans, rootkits). The software includes exploit protection to block zero-day attacks. Its anti-ransomware module patrols folder activity, and quarantines threats immediately antivirus software for Windows.
Key features: Fast scans (Hyper Scan for Windows), web protection, anti-exploit and anti-ransomware shields. The Premium version adds automatic scanning and updates antivirus software for Windows.
Why we like it: Outstanding malware removal software app – if your PC is already infected, Malwarebytes often cures it when others fail. Its minimal resource use and simple UI make it great for both novices and experts. Note: Malwarebytes’ free version only offers on-demand scans; the paid Premium version is needed for proactive defense.
8. Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security
Trend Micro focuses on web and email protection. Its PayGuard feature ensures safer online banking, and its real-time antivirus engine is effective against malware. Trend Micro also has a strong anti-phishing filter and blocks malicious URLs by default. The interface is user-friendly for beginners. On AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives, Trend Micro scores very well on protection (though it has slightly higher system impact than the leaders) antivirus software for Windows.
Key features: Web Threat Protection, Folder Shield for ransomware, email scam guard, and Mac/Android versions are available too.
Why we like it: Excellent web security focus – it caught 100% of web-based threats in tests. Also has a “Pay Guard” for secure transactions. Great for users who shop and bank online. Trend Micro offers both consumer products (Trend Micro Internet Security) and corporate solutions (Apex One) antivirus software for Windows.
9. ESET Internet Security
ESET is prized for its speed and customization. It, too, got AV-TEST’s top score. ESET’s scanning engine is highly optimized (low footprint), giving fast boot and scan times. It includes layers of protection (signature+behavior) and a special anti-ransomware module. The suite adds a two-way firewall, anti-phishing, and a network inspector to highlight router vulnerabilities. ESET’s license covers Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android** – truly a cross-platform antivirus solution.
Key features: Lightweight antivirus, Ransomware Shield, Webcam protection, Secure Data (volume encryption), and exploit blocker.
Why we like it: Blend of strong protection and low system impact. ESET’s setup allows advanced users to tweak nearly every setting. It’s especially popular in Europe and business environments. Also offers a free online scanner for one-time checks.
10. Microsoft Defender Antivirus (Windows Defender)
Microsoft Defender Antivirus is built into Windows 10 and 11 at no extra cost. In recent years it has become an excellent free antivirus – in AV-TEST’s 2025 Windows trial it scored a perfect 100% in all categories. Defender provides always-on real-time protection, behavior monitoring, firewall integration, and even cloud-based intelligence via Microsoft’s security graphlearn. It includes ransomware protection with controlled folder access, and regular silent updates through Windows Update.
Key features: Real-time virus/malware scanning, cloud-delivered protection (Microsoft SmartScreen), exploit protection, and firewall. Also offers Windows Sandbox for testing unknown files safely.
Why we like it: Zero cost (free virus protection tool) and now competitive with paid AV for basic defense. It uses machine learning in the cloud to spot threats instantlylearn. Defender’s interface in Windows Security is straightforward. For organizations, Microsoft extends this to the enterprise (Microsoft Defender for Endpoint).
How to Choose the Right Antivirus for Windows
Selecting the best antivirus depends on your needs. Here are some tips:
- Home or Business: Home users may favor suites with password managers and backups, while businesses need enterprise antivirus management and centralized control. (All big vendors offer business versions of their products.)
- Free vs Paid: Windows Defender (built-in) and tools like Avira or Avast Free can suffice for many. Paid versions add extras (VPN, identity protection, advanced firewalls). Weigh whether you need features like secure browsing or backups.
- Performance Impact: If your computer is older, choose a lightweight antivirus (e.g. ESET, Avira, or Defender) to avoid slowdowns. Check AV-TEST/AV-Comparatives performance scores for guidance.
- Multi-device licenses: If you have multiple devices (phone, tablet, PC), consider a suite that supports all platforms. A cross-platform antivirus saves money.
- Online Scanners: For a quick check, tools like ESET Online Scanner and Trend Micro’s HouseCall provide free web-based scanstrend. These are useful second opinions if you suspect an infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is antivirus software necessary on Windows?
A: Yes. Even with Windows Defender built-in, additional antivirus suites add extra layers of security and advanced features. Windows Defender does a great job, but dedicated AV software offers specialized ransomware protection, sandboxing, and extra tools. As malware becomes more sophisticated, an antivirus for Windows (with real-time and cloud intelligencelearn) helps keep your data safe.
Q: What about free virus protection tools vs. paid?
A: Free tools (like Avast Free, AVG Free, Avira Free, or Defender) provide basic malware scanning and blocking. Paid antivirus apps add premium features: VPNs, firewall control, automatic backups, and identity theft monitoring. If you only need simple protection, Defender or Avira Free may suffice. But power users and families often benefit from the extra security in paid suites.
Q: Can one antivirus protect multiple platforms?
A: Many top antivirus products (Bitdefender, Norton, ESET, McAfee, etc.) are cross-platform, meaning one license covers Windows, macOS, Android and iOS. This simplifies protection if you have a Windows PC plus a smartphone or MacBook. Check product details for the number of supported devices.
Q: What is the best malware removal software?
A: For malware cleanup, Malwarebytes Free is highly recommended. It’s known as a malware removal software app that excels at finding and eradicating stubborn threats. For real-time protection as well, Malwarebytes Premium is top-rated.
Q: How do I get free online antivirus scans?
A: You can use web scanners like Trend Micro HouseCall (free)trend or the ESET Online Scanner. These do not require installing a full program – just run the tool in your browser to scan and remove malware. They are handy if you can’t install software directly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right antivirus software for Windows is essential to keep your PC secure. Whether you opt for a free tool like Microsoft Defender, or a full suite like Bitdefender Total Security or Norton 360, make sure it offers real-time protection, regular updates, and ransomware defense. Our list of the 10 best Windows antivirus solutions (above) covers a range of needs – from free basic protection to advanced enterprise antivirus software. Each of these products is well-regarded in tests and by users. Do compare features (VPN, password manager, cross-platform support) when deciding.
Stay safe online: install a reputable antivirus today, keep it updated, and regularly scan your system. If you found this guide helpful, share it with others and leave a comment on your experiences with these security apps.
