Best Antivirus Software for 2021
Every day, over 1,000,000 new threats appear – threats that can compromise your identity or trash your devices. One way or another, if you end up with a nasty virus or malware, it could end up costing you money, whether in compromised financial accounts or money to clean your computer – or buy a new one.
Other risks include losing sensitive information and important files, and losing control of your devices. Most antivirus programs are not enough, but you can choose one that does a lot, such as catching viruses and malware, and providing extra protection. Adding a firewall and accessing the internet via a VPN also decreases the risk of someone accessing your devices.
When people first started using computers to access the internet, the risk of getting a virus was much lower. According to Pew Research, only 52 percent of adult Americans accessed the internet. In 2020, that percentage increased to 90 percent adult Americans. That’s a lot of targets for hackers who are looking for identifying information they need to steal your identity or login information for your financial accounts.
Antivirus software and other methods of protection help keep your information safe. Deciding which antivirus software is best for your situation is often a tough call since there are so many to choose from.
#1 VIPRE Antivirus
VIPRE Antivirus offers antivirus programs for individuals and businesses. The acronym name stands for Virus Intrusion Protection and Remediation Engine. It protects you from viruses, then cleans the virus. Both suites offer unmatched protection against online threats. When you choose VIPRE Antivirus, you get email and endpoint security, and threat intelligence for malware.
The software is user-friendly for the individual and businesses and features quick and quality threat response. VIPRE is a global platform across North American and Europe, and is a j2 Global, Inc., brand.
- Adds prevention to protection and remediation
- Home protection for PCs and Macs
- Business protection
- Over 20 years of experience in protecting users from malware
- Installs quickly and doesn’t use a lot of memory
#2 Total AV
Total AV won several awards, including for real-world protection, performance, and malware protection. This antivirus program got a new look for 2021, but it provides the same protection that fans expect from the program. The full security package includes the antivirus scanner, scheduled scans, safe browsing via VPN, and a remote firewall. Total AV also blocks phishing URLs and enhances performance. Total AV’s advanced anti-malware protection is available for multiple devices, so you can protect all of your devices.
- Total security and protection
- Real-time antivirus protection
- Extensive virus definitions
- Data breach monitoring
- Improved features for 2021
#3 Kaspersky
Whether you need virus protection for yourself, your family, or a business, Kaspersky has solutions for all. Instead of buying a package built for a large business, this company offers packages for small, medium, and large businesses. It blocks crypto blockers and ransomware as well as viruses – in real-time. And, it doesn’t slow your PC down while it’s doing its job. Kaspersky also offers discounts for new users.
- Blocks crypto blockers and ransomware, in addition to viruses
- Doesn’t slow you down
- Hides browsing
- Prevents webcam hijacking
- “Bad content” blocker for safer kids
#4 McAfee
McAfee offers a suite of protection for viruses, ransomware, spyware, and malware, all while keeping your identity private. It has platforms for PCs, Macs, tablets, and smartphones. The antivirus software includes ID Theft Protection Essentials, which monitors the dark web for any personal information about you, then notifies you of a breach in your security. It comes in three sizes: Individual (covers one device), the multi-device package, which covers up to five devices, and the household package, which covers up to 10 devices.
- Multi-layered identity protection
- Color-coded links to notify you of fraudulent sites on social media and search engine searches
- Plans for individuals, multi-devices, and family plans
- Auto-renewal – if you want it
- Advanced+ award eight times in a row since 2015
#5 Norton
Over the years, the types of threats have evolved. Now, you no longer have to worry about viruses, but also have to worry about malware, spyware, identity theft and more. Norton provides a suite of products, including antivirus and VPN to help protect all of your devices from prying eyes and hacking thieves. From online privacy to catching the newest virus threat before it worms its way into your system, Norton keeps you safe.
- Decades of experience and a proven track record of fighting against viruses and malware
- Protect all of your devices
- Several add-ons so you can customize your security needs
- Several packages at different price points, including a package for gamers and packages including Life Lock
