The problem of cyber security is acute: at a time when antivirus developers improve their protection systems, new malicious programs appear daily, many times more complicated than the basic "worms" or "trojans". To resist them, it is recommended not only to use high-quality and proven software, but to follow the rules of being on the Internet: do not go to dubious sites, and even more so do not download files from them. These actions help reduce the risk of computer infection, but do not make it equal to zero, because antivirus is a necessary application for a PC.
What is the best antivirus for Windows 10
Objectively, there is no one best antivirus in the world, it is like an ideal gas that does not exist in nature. Each of the programs below has its pros and cons. Users choose software "for themselves" so that it helps to perform those specific tasks that they need, and has such shortcomings that would not interfere too much with the achievement of the goals set by the application and were acceptable for a particular "user". In addition, programs for protecting computers are divided into the following types:
- Detectors (scanners). They look for virus infections on the computer, sending a notification to the user when they are found.
- Doctors (phages, vaccines). They look for infected files, then "treat" them by removing the virus from the code.
- Auditors. They remember the initial state of the file and operating system of the computer (before infection) and compare it with the current one, displaying the changes on the screen.
- Monitors (firewalls, firewalls). Start an automatic OS scan at every startup.
- Filters (watchman). Small utilities that monitor the actions taking place in the system and determine which of them belong to viruses. This allows the infection to be detected at an early stage, before it begins to spread.
Doctors are considered the most effective type. These include, for example, Kaspersky and Dr.Web. The built-in scanner and firewall are available in all versions of Windows, including 10. In addition to the above classification, antiviruses are divided into two more categories. The first includes programs that run the scan only forcibly (in manual or automatic mode). The second is software that constantly scans data streams (for example, traffic in a browser). This is the basic theory to know on this topic. Specifically, about each of the antiviruses that are suitable for Windows 10, below.
Integrated Microsoft Security Essential
Windows Defender is the basic level of computer security. It doesn't mean he's bad. In earlier versions of the operating system, Defender was introduced as Microsoft Security Essential. In Windows 8.1 and 10, this is a built-in utility that works as a feature - it doesn't show up in Programs and Features, so it can't be uninstalled. According to information on the official website of OS Defender:
- blocks spyware, rootkits, bootkits, and other viruses in real time;
- checks and cleans the OS online and offline;
- functions as a dynamic signature service.
Security Essential is a comprehensive free multilingual program, and this is its main advantage. For those who have Windows 10 on their computer, it greatly simplifies the task, because it does not need settings and updates, doing everything automatically by itself. If the Defender in Windows 7 and below could protect the PC only from spyware, the built-in application includes all the necessary functionality.
- Low score on the results of specialized testing AV-Test. The defender recognized only 88% of zero-day attacks (Real-World Testin) and 99.8% of the prevailing and widespread threats (Reference set). By comparison, Kaspersky Lab scored 100/100 in both cases.
- There is no menu tab to scan individual files for infection.
Against the background of advantages, such disadvantages are lost, but they become of particular importance for those who are not inclined to ensure their own security on the Internet. 12% of missed threats become a weighty “against” fact for gamers, active “users” of the network who constantly download files from there, and users of unlicensed software. In addition, Defender provides an insufficient level of security for corporate networks.
Free antiviruses for Windows 10
Already in the previous example, it was shown that a good antivirus for Windows 10 does not have to be expensive. You can use a free analogue or demo version - some of them provide sufficient protection against threats. The main thing is to download products from official sites so that you do not download some kind of Trojan instead of an antivirus. Free apps and stripped-down versions have a number of disadvantages common to all programs in this category:
- lack of additional modules (firewall, parental control);
- the amount of advertising;
- constant offers to purchase the full version.
All this can be put up with, since, for example, free products such as Avast Free Antivirus and Panda Security Free provide a high level of protection. They can even adequately compete with their commercial counterparts. Such applications will not be able to provide comprehensive protection, but if attackers do not target a specific user, in most cases it is not needed.
Paid software
The rating of antiviruses for Windows 10 is headed by paid software, since it represents entire software systems with maximum functionality. Such products include the possibility of remote control, restoring the system to the point of infection, protecting the webcam and browser, cleaning the registry, etc. Although the mere fact that you have to pay for the program does not mean that it is good, nor that it will protect against all types of threats.
Criterias of choice
The quality of the program is influenced by many factors, some of them are even subjective and reflect the personal perception of the user. The criteria below are general, even if you are going to download an antivirus for a tablet on Windows 10, and not for a computer. When choosing, it is recommended to pay attention to such points:
- The cost of purchasing and maintaining an anti-virus program. This item includes not only the cost of the product, but also such a factor as time. For example, if you put a demo version of the software, the cash costs will be zero, but you will have to constantly be distracted by notifications about possible additional functions and advertising. What is less important - money or time, everyone decides for himself.
- Reliability of protection. No application for Windows 10 provides a 100% security guarantee. Even the fact that Kaspersky received the highest rating in the AV-Test test only says that the threats that participated in the test will not pass. At the same time, it is possible that the program will not have time to add to its database some new Trojan that has just appeared on the Internet. However, pay attention to scores and reviews when choosing a product for yourself. If you tend to regularly visit unverified sites and download dubious data, you need the most effective antivirus. Those who prefer, for example, safe browsing in order to protect the browser, and independently optimize the system once a week / month, an increased level of “armor” is not needed.
- Variety of useful features. These are a number of additional tools that make it easier to work with a computer. This includes protection of removable media, cleaning up temporary files, etc. Do not think that the more useful features, the better. If some of them are not in demand for you personally, all they will do is reduce PC performance and interfere with work. A simple antivirus for ordinary users is best, but for those who understand what's what, you should take a closer look at the advanced functionality.
- The resource intensity of the antivirus. This factor, together with the performance of the computer on which the program is installed, determines its speed. Too "heavy" software slows down the entire OS, especially its loading, which interferes with the user. The weaker the characteristics of the PC, the more simple and "easy" you need to install the application.
The best antivirus for Windows 10 for free
The most popular antivirus programs in the Russian Federation are free. Those who choose software from just this category are only at hand - they have the most reviews. Below are the utilities that users considered the best. In addition, they were also given a good mark in AV-Test testing. Check out the features and descriptions of each antivirus to choose a product for your own use.
Avira Antivirus
This product exists in two versions, one of which is free. Some features were removed in the free version, but the most significant ones, including active protection, an integrated firewall and a scanner, were not changed. Avira Antivirus keeps your computer and the Internet secure. Among the advantages of the application:
- low resource consumption;
- lack of frequent advertisements;
- high speed.
In addition, Avira has the most positive reviews on the Internet compared to other free counterparts, and provides cloud protection. If the built-in functions (setting up data processing, filters for applications) are not enough, you can download and integrate plugins from the official website. Disadvantages of Avira Antivirus:
- sometimes ads appear;
- skips some viruses.
Kaspersky Free
A stripped-down version of the popular product, which contains all the modules necessary to ensure security. You can install it from the official website of the company. The advantage of free Kaspersky over the full functionality is that it works much faster. Other pluses:
- protects the file system, the Internet;
- compatible with all modern operating systems;
- good technical support.
A clear disadvantage of Kaspersky is that Free is only available for 365 days (1 year), after which you will have to buy a license or remove the product from your computer. In addition, parental control and online banking functions are not available in this version. Also, in comparison with other products, "nimble" Kaspersky still slows down the system and is not suitable for weak netbooks.
Avast Free Antivirus
This antivirus is known for its simple interface and high speed. Avast Free Antivirus is fast even on low performance laptops, and Windows 10 further optimizes costs. To use this product, you must register with an email address and confirmation that you are its owner. Benefits of Avast antivirus:
- convenience of work;
- a variety of functions, you can customize the program for yourself (enable or disable unnecessary tools);
- quick check;
- blocking most viruses.
According to the test results, Avast is able to protect your computer from 99% of threats. If at the same time you independently protect yourself from potential sources of viruses, the risk of PC infection will tend to zero. Product disadvantages:
- intrusive frequent announcements about updating the virus database;
- the need to re-register once a year;
- only available for Windows 10 Home.
Dr. Web Carelt
A small utility that is not a full-fledged antivirus. Scans and “treats” infected files. Pros of using Dr. Web Carelt:
- does not need installation;
- performs "treatment" of files, and not deletion or sending to quarantine.
Such an antivirus works only with the operating system and does not scan streaming data for potential threats. In addition, the utility has the following disadvantages:
- the trial version does not have the virus database update function;
- inability to work in web mode.
Bitdefender Antivirus
The paid version of this program according to the results of the AV-Test was recognized as the best. Free Bitdefender Antivirus has lost some extra features, but otherwise remains consistently high quality. Among its advantages are a high degree of protection and a pleasant interface. The disadvantages are:
- the absence of the Russian language (although everything is intuitively clear even in English);
- “Heavy”, loads the system very much, is not suitable for weak computers.
360 Total Security
An easy-to-configure (even a beginner can handle it without help) product, except for anti-virus protection, which includes optimization of work, checking the Internet connection, cleaning history, registry. Microsoft has included 360 Total Security in the list of recommended programs for installation. The virus database of this product is regularly updated, so the manufacturer guarantees the quality of the protection provided. Disadvantages of using 360 Total Security:
- no Russification;
- no quick scan function (only quick).
AVG AntiVirus Free
The program has a paid version that uses the same virus databases. The protection level of AVG AntiVirus Free is high, although the product is not very popular. In addition, among the advantages of the software is the economical consumption of resources. Disadvantages of AVG AntiVirus Free:
- slow check;
- sometimes there are false positives.
Panda Free Antivirus
The first antivirus for Windows 10, which began to use cloud technologies, which allowed for better scanning. In addition, Panda Free Antivirus provides the ability to restore the system if it does not boot using the "Recovery Set" function. The virus database of the product is regularly updated, and the program itself has a pleasant and understandable interface, but there are also disadvantages:
- not supported by computers and laptops with low performance;
- sometimes Panda false positives.
Comparative characteristics of free programs
The table below compares the most popular programs. As evaluation criteria, such characteristics were taken as browser protection, history clearing, PC optimization, sandbox, password manager, disabling startup, etc.
| Avira Free Antivirus | AVG Antivirus Protection FREE | Avast Free Antivirus | Panda Free Antivirus 2016 | 360 Total Security |
|
| Cloud protection | |||||
| Sandbox | |||||
| System Restore | |||||
| Remote control | |||||
| Webcam protection | |||||
| Password Manager | |||||
| Firewall | |||||
| Registry protection | |||||
| Disabling autoload | |||||
| System optimization | |||||
| Browser protection | |||||
| Clearing history | |||||
| Safe Browsing |
Paid virus detection and protection programs
According to the results of specialized testing AV-TEST paid products took the first places. The following antiviruses are recognized as the best for Windows 10:
- Chinese program Bitdefender;
- Avira Antivirus;
- Kaspersky Internet Security;
- Latest version of Norton Security.
Products such as F-Secure and Trend Micro also made it to the top, not inferior to the above in terms of quality, but consuming more resources, thereby reducing PC performance. A slightly different list was obtained when compiling a rating based on Russian-language reviews. For example, the best, according to AV-Test, BitDefender is not so popular in the Russian Federation, because it does not have an adequate translation. Below are detailed descriptions of each of the antiviruses that both users and experts have noted as high-quality and suitable for Windows 10.
According to the tests of specialized laboratories, this anti-virus program has high marks. In addition, BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2019 has a wide range of features aimed at protecting the system, Internet connection, registry, and more. To install the product, you need an account and a key that is issued to the user after paying for the license. Before listing the advantages, it is worth mentioning the disadvantages right away: it is better not to use this software for owners of weak netbooks.
This also applies to those who care about Russification - BitDefender does not have it. In addition, in the PCMag test, the product showed a mediocre result for blocking malware. The advantages are:
- independent laboratories gave the antivirus high marks;
- good blocking of phishing (malicious links);
- there is protection against ransomware;
- nice interface;
- multifunctionality;
- password manager.
ESET NOD32 Smart Security 9 Beta
An improved version of the popular antivirus. To install, download the installation file from the official website and run it on a Windows 10 PC. The trial period of the product is 14 days (extendable to 30), after which you need to purchase a license to continue using it. ESET NOD32 Smart Security 9 Beta takes up about 110 MB of RAM, but is fast. Other benefits:
- expanded functionality (added an Internet banking tool, network signatures);
- accelerated copying of files;
- clear interface;
- blocking keyloggers;
- high level of signature-heuristic detection.
Among the shortcomings, the operation of the HIPS module (infection recognition by actions performed in the operating system) stands out. For its effectiveness, precise and correct tuning is necessary, which is difficult even for experienced users. By default, HIPS only protects against threats with signature signatures. In addition, although ESET NOD32 works flawlessly on a fast Windows 10 computer, the performance of weaker devices may decrease.
Kaspersky Internet Security for all devices
This comprehensive product is designed for all devices running Windows 10 or OS of another version. Although Kaspersky Internet Security has mixed reviews and ratings from laboratories, it occupies positions in the top ratings in terms of popularity. The main benefits relate to meeting user needs. The tools include:
- the presence of parental control;
- prompt and high-quality technical support;
- traffic encryption during online shopping;
- ensuring the security of online banking.
The licensing system is also conveniently organized. “For all devices” means not only for PCs, tablets and smartphones on Windows, but also for Mac and Android. In addition, without a license, the full version of Kaspersky can be used for 30 days without limiting functionality. The disadvantage of this antivirus is common to others of the same category - complex software requires good characteristics of the device on which it is installed.
Dr.Web Security Space 11
Comprehensive software for Windows 10, which includes both standard modules and manufacturers' own developments (for example, unique preventive protection). The free trial period is 30 days, but it can be extended up to 3 months. Among the advantages are a good level of signature detection of infection, fast scanning and timely blocking of infection. Disadvantages include these points:
- by default, there is no Firewall installation (you need to check this item yourself);
- slow installation;
- heavily "loads" RAM;
- does not protect against keyloggers;
- poor security performance compared to other paid counterparts (although free software is better).
Norton Security
Highly secure software that is constantly being improved. The advantage of Norton Security is that it not only meets the needs of users, but also consumes few resources, therefore it is suitable even for weak netbooks running on Windows 10. The functionality includes:
- built-in firewall;
- antispam;
- protection of online payments;
- system optimizer.
The merits of Norton Security have been noted by both users and independent labs. All additional plugins of the program also work correctly: effective protection against phishing and malware is guaranteed. You can verify this yourself by downloading the installation file on the official website and installing the trial version. The only drawback of Norton Security concerns non-Windows 10 devices - the level of security provided by the program for iOS is lower than for other systems.
F-Secure Antivirus
A complex product from Finland on a Romanian engine, showing positive results of testing by independent laboratories. In the post-Soviet space, the program is not very popular, although it has adequate Russification. F-Secure Antivirus has a standard set of functions plus additional modules, including secure web search. Antivirus benefits:
- fast installation;
- does not "load" RAM;
- ensuring Internet security;
- good protection against phishing.
There are also disadvantages, and some of them are significant, since the fact that there is no parental control function and no trial version (an activation key is immediately required, although you can get a demo version in your Personal Account after registration) is not important for everyone. Significant cons:
- no protection against keyloggers;
- low level of system security;
- inconvenient implementation of settings, although the interface looks nice.
How much do antivirus programs for Windows 10 cost?
The prices for the applications described are shown in the table below. The cost is taken for the Moscow region, but since the purchase is carried out on the Internet, it should not differ in other cities. However, be guided by the data from the official websites of companies, since the ruble exchange rate is unstable.
| Antivirus name | Price, rubles (per year) |
| BitDefender Antivirus Plus 2019 | 2,313.66 (up to three devices) |
| Kaspersky Internet Security | |
| Dr.Web Security Space 11 | |
| F-Secure Antivirus |
