The Best Antivirus Software of 2022

In today’s digital age, antivirus software is a must-have purchase. Around 32% of individuals use antivirus software for both professional and personal reasons, while 41% use it just for personal security. Antivirus programs are more crucial than ever as individuals spend more time online after the 2020 pandemic, and the number of reported cybersecurity threats continues to rise.

Which antivirus program is the most effective? There are several alternatives available. You may select from all-in-one security suites that include malware protection and VPN support, as well as simple, low-cost anti-virus software.

Today, we’ll look at some of the best antivirus software alternatives for protecting your online identity.

The 7 Best Antivirus Software of 2022

What is Antivirus Software?


Antivirus software is a program or software package that protects computers against viruses. Today’s technology can help you set up defenses against viruses, look for evidence of virus concerns, and erase dangerous stuff from your computer.

The features of your antivirus software will differ depending on the package you select. Most will examine specific files and folders for attack symptoms on demand and automatically. You should also be able to schedule scans based on your needs, collect virus information, and eradicate bad code as soon as it is identified.

Some virus software will also show you your computer’s “health” by keeping track of factors like how many defenses you have installed.

Let’s have a look at some of the best antivirus software.

1. McAfee Antivirus

McAfee Antivirus Total Protection is a one-stop shop for keeping your digital devices safe. Home network security, password manager, McAfee document shredder tools, speed optimization, and secure online surfing are all included in the antivirus technology. The McAfee team will also provide security expert assistance and support as needed, as well as an identity protection solution.

McAfee Total Security delivers a lot of capabilities with a lightweight system fingerprint, making it ideal for consumers who wish to invest in a more comprehensive kind of protection. In other words, your gadget will not take up a lot of space. If you want to protect your entire family, you can buy multi-device coverage.

Pros:

  • Extensive range of features
  • Excellent VPN with unlimited usage
  • Multiple package options
  • Intelligent firewalls, spam filters, and secure file vaults
  • Lightweight for your computer

Cons:

  • Antivirus protection isn’t as reliable as some revivals
  • Can be expensive for one device

Pricing

Total Protection antivirus software is available for $24.99 for one device for a two-year subscription. If you renew after that, you’ll pay $159.99 for each two-year period. Family protection is available for $39.99 for up to ten devices.


2. Norton AntiVirus Plus

Norton Antivirus Plus includes more than just basic antivirus protection with each bundle. A variety of functions, including a real-time threat detection and prevention service, provide all-around safety. There’s a password manager and a smart firewall for both PC and Mac users, so you don’t have to worry about memorizing complicated passwords.

Norton has a number of features that you won’t find in other entry-level antivirus packages, such as 2GB of online storage for your files and PC maintenance tools. The antivirus protections, maybe most crucially, are powerful and trustworthy – but not the finest on the market.

A special edition of Norton Antivirus for families includes features such as parental control, school time management, and even secure camera safety.

Norton’s extensive variety of adjustable features makes it a popular choice among security enthusiasts. However, the technology may cause your gadget to appear to be somewhat smaller.

Pros:

  • Extra features like cloud storage
  • Anti-virus, spyware, malware, and ransomware in one
  • Multiple packages, including family-friendly options
  • Decent antivirus protection for Mac and PC
  • Identity and online privacy support

Cons:

  • Can slow down your device slightly

Pricing: For one account, Norton Antivirus Plus costs $59.99, you can also pay for subscriptions for multiple devices at once.

3. Kaspersky Antivirus

Kaspersky Antivirus is a Windows-only antivirus program that is rated among the best in terms of price and performance. The service claims to safeguard you in real time from viruses and malware. You’ll also get help to keep your machine functioning well every day. The base package includes performance optimization features.

Kaspersky’s triple layer protection includes proactive threat identification, real-time cyber threat prevention, and immediate neutralization. With phishing prevention, basic antivirus protection may also protect you from phony websites and emails.

You’ll also receive VPN access, payment protection, camera protection, an adult content filter, screen-time management, GPS child location, file protection, and more if you upgrade to Kaspersky comprehensive security. Additionally, a password manager is offered.

Pros:

  • Extensive range of potential features
  • Good anti-phishing protection
  • Performance optimization built-in
  • Affordable pricing

Cons:

  • Not available for Mac if you buy the essential suite

Pricing: Pricing generally starts at around $59.99 for coverage of 3 years on one PC. However, you can get great discounts on the Kaspersky website.


4. Bitdefender AntiVirus Plus

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is a handy and economical solution for real-time protection that is widely regarded as one of the best antivirus packages available. The program, which is designed for Windows PCs, protects users from ransomware and viruses, as well as phishing, and even includes a private VPN for online anonymity.

While there is a free version of Bitdefender available, the “Pro” protection, which is also quite reasonable, provides a lot more capabilities. Bitdefender provides outstanding anti-infection protection with minimum impact on PC performance. The more you pay for your subscription, the more features you’ll receive, such as VPN support, network threat prevention, vulnerability assessments, and anti-fraud protection.

Bitdefender’s antivirus protection has won several honors, including the “Outstanding Security Product” award.

Pros:

  • Extensive features like Safepay banking protection and VPN
  • Lots of internet and computer protection
  • Fantastic value for money
  • Top-of-the-line protection from viruses with minimal performance impact
  • Access to host of performance boosting features

Cons:

  • Only for Windows PC
  • Limited VPN usage

Pricing: Pricing starts at around $39.99 per year for one license, putting it on par with some of the cheaper competitors in the market.


5. Eset NOD32 AntiVirus

Eset NOD32 antivirus is a great antivirus program for gamers who want to keep their PC running smoothly. It’s speedy, efficient, and light. This trustworthy antivirus technology comes with a 30-day free trial and assistance for protection against viruses, malware, and more for both Mac and Windows devices.

NOD32’s antivirus technology uses very little power from your computer, allowing you to keep streaming movies and playing games without interruption. You won’t have to spend as much time thinking about software patches because the technology updates itself.

One useful feature of Eset is the ability to check your devices remotely using the smartphone app.

Pros:

  • Convenient app control center
  • Support for both Mac and Windows devices
  • Powerful antivirus protection
  • Automatic updates and patches
  • Minimal power usage for gamers

Cons:

  • A little difficult to use

Pricing: The cost of a Eset NOD32 subscription is around $49.99 per year, with additional licenses available for an extra $10 per year.


6. Avast Antivirus

Avast Antivirus, another free program, provides today’s digital explorers all the tools they need to be safe online. The antivirus is available for free download, and it contains capabilities for secure Wi-Fi surfing, secure shopping and banking, and device optimization. You may also upgrade to a more advanced Avast service for additional features like sensitive data protection and premium security setup.

Avast has multiple packages for different users, so you may get the correct security for your needs whether you’re using a home or corporate computer. A software update tool is also provided to keep your apps patched and up-to-date.

Avast offers its own anti-phishing feature, although it isn’t as sophisticated as some of its competitors.

If you choose for Avast Ultimate, you’ll receive superior security along with the SecureLine VPN for safer browsing and a slew of PC cleanup tools. Unfortunately, the technology may affect the performance of your device.

Pros:

  • Excellent VPN and PC cleanup functionality
  • Free version of antivirus available
  • Software updating tool and device optimization
  • Safe banking and shopping

Cons:

  • Can slow down your devices quite a bit

Pricing: If you upgrade from the Avast free antivirus package to the ultimate plan, you can spend $49.99 per year on coverage for one Windows device, or $59.99 for up to ten devices for the first year.


7. Avira Antivirus

Avira Antivirus is likely best known for its free security package, which is one of the most liberal on the market. However, if you want comprehensive coverage, you should definitely stick to the premium plans. The award-winning technology is used by more than 500 million people across the world and has an easy-to-use interface.

Real-time malware scanning, specific ransomware defenses, a software update tool that works with a variety of programs, and privacy features like a file shredder are all included in the Avira security packages.

Upgrading to the premier editions of Avira Antivirus will provide you with a lot more capability, such as a professional software updater and other features.

Pros:

  • Extensive antivirus, malware, and ransomware protections
  • Tools to improve your PC performance
  • Free version available if you’re not ready for a paid plan
  • Convenient and easy-to-use technology

Cons:

  • Antivirus protection can be a little shaky