If you use a Windows or Mac PC, do you really need third-party antivirus software? For that matter, do you need to pay for the protection?
The answer to those questions was easy a decade ago. Today, the built-in security features in Windows, including the Microsoft Defender Antivirus engine, for example, pass the “good enough” test, making the choice less clear-cut.
But for some picky PC users, replacing the basic built-in antivirus protection with software from an outside developer is just natural when setting up a new PC. Even if the difference is small, it’s still an improvement. In a world where ransomware is an existential threat to businesses and banking-related Trojans and phishing attacks can drain your checking account in minutes, you want every edge.
The best-known commercial antivirus programs for Windows and Mac machines typically require an annual paid subscription, but some perfectly respectable names also distribute free versions of their software, usually for noncommercial use only.
Typically, these programs include the exact same scanning engines and malware definition files, minus most of the fancier features and, crucially, offering minimal support options. You can also expect frequent, occasionally annoying upsell offers as the developers try to convince you to upgrade to a paid plan.
All of the programs we list here are completely free and are appropriate for use in a home setting by nontechnical users. Below, I’ve listed my top recommendations for free PC antivirus software.
Also: The best antivirus software and apps (and why you need to protect your devices)
Best price
Avast One Essential – Trusted security for Windows and MacOS
Avast One Essential offers single-device protection, for free, and also includes a limited VPN for additional protection.
View at Avast
Best price
Adaware Antivirus – Suitable for Windows machines
Adaware Antivirus is a free security offering for PCs running Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11.
View at Adaware
Best price
ESET – Great protection for Windows and MacOS
Slovak company ESET provides two tiers of antivirus protection. However, free usage is limited to a 30-day trial.
View at ESET
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