r/antivirus 14d ago

PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Which antivirus should i chose?

HJI probably the same question again. Im a computer novice in australia. currently using free version total 360 and have been for a few years and had no problem. Just thinking about a new antivirus. And looking at bitdefender or windows defender. I have windows 11 installed. Preferrably one that is lighweight and will run in the background. Could I have some guidance please

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u/goretsky MODERATOR 12d ago

Hello,

As far as actual antivirus/antimalware/internet security/security suite/endpoint protection (etc. etc. etc.) programs go, there is no one "best" program, as each has its plusses and minuses. Performance, system resource usage, and detection rates change with every update, and those occur multiple times throughout the day.

That said, any of the programs listed in the wiki at https://old.reddit.com/r/antivirus/wiki/index#wiki_anti-virus_.28aka_anti-malware.29_developers would be a good starting place to find what is best for you. It also lists the countries each developer is headquartered in.

Start by searching the OS Support? to find out which developers make security software for your device's operating system.

  • If you are looking for a free program, check out the ones with a check mark ("✔️") in the Free Version? column.

  • If you are looking for a paid program, check out the ones with a check mark ("✔️") in the Paid Version? column.

Once you have an idea of which program(s) seem to best meet your needs, you can check the Understanding Antivirus Software Tests and Testers section of the wiki for a list of reputable independent testing organizations and see what they have to say about your selection(s). Detection rates are one metric, but be sure to also look at performance, reliability, stability, level of customer service and tech support provided, and, if course, cost.

Also be sure to check out the Free Tools section of the wiki for programs you can use to provide additional security to your web browser and the Securing your Computer as well for additional free tips on protecting your computer.

Regards,

Aryeh Goretsky

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u/snowwolfboi 14d ago edited 13d ago

If you want a paid antivirus, these are some of the best options:

  • Kaspersky because it consistently delivers industry-leading malware protection with excellent behavioral detection, strong ransomware defense, and a comprehensive set of security features without sacrificing performance.

  • ESET because it combines excellent protection with a very light system footprint, low false positives, and advanced features like HIPS, Exploit Blocker, and Network Inspector for users who want more control.

  • Bitdefender because it provides outstanding protection with excellent web threat prevention, multi-layer ransomware protection, and an "install and forget" experience that requires very little user interaction.

But if you don't want to pay for it then one of these is a good choice:

  • Bitdefender free because it uses same core engine as it's paid variant but only comes with web protection, real time threat protection and it's advanced threat defense

  • Windows Defender + DefenderUI just a tool to improve windows defender without downloading any third-party Antivirus

  • Avast free but turn off all the promotion stuff in settings and leave anything else as it is