Microsoft Defender isn't bad, but it's not enough to fully protect your PC. You don't have to pay extra, though—just use one of the top free antivirus apps we've tested.

In 2025, most devices feature built-in antivirus software that scans files you attempt to download, blocking anything it deems suspicious. Antivirus tools also perform automated scans to remove ...

Having some sort of antimalware protection is a must on Windows PCs, but if you're trying to pick between Bitdefender and McAfee, Consumer Reports may help.

PCWorld highlights three superior antivirus alternatives to PC free trials: Windows Security, free options like Bitdefender and Avast One, and comprehensive paid suites like Norton 360 Deluxe. Free ...

Marshall Gunnell is a Tokyo-based tech journalist and editor with over a decade of experience covering IT, cybersecurity and data storage. Alongside CNET, his work has appeared in ZDNET, Business ...

NEW YORK, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Expert Consumers has recognized Webroot for its lightweight approach to antivirus protection, highlighting the software's ability to deliver essential security ...

Bitdefender Antivirus Free scans and cleans your system using only the resources that you, your software or your operating system are not using, thus achieving near-zero impact on your activities.

Emsisoft Anti-Malware touts itself as being “a complete defense system against malware, ransomware, phishing, and more.” One independent lab certifies its business edition, and it scored high in our ...

macOS’s Gatekeeper and XProtect functions provide a strong baseline for security and block the vast majority of malware and questionable apps. Still, determined or careless users can bypass ...