Many of the top antivirus software programs have free versions that are equally effective as their paid counterparts in stopping malware. A majority of antivirus programs are basic, low-end product with limited features, a midrange program that offers additional security tools and the top-end version with all of the bells and bells.

AVG Antivirus The free version of the program offers superior security against malware while having a minimal impact on the system. The free version comes with a number other useful tools, like junk file cleanup, RAM optimization and WiFi network scanners. It is also ad-free and doesn’t prompt you to upgrade to premium features.

Microsoft Defender is the default anti-malware program that comes with Windows systems. Although it’s not the most effective in stopping malware files from downloading on your PC, its free version comes with a variety of other tools like performance and health analysis and parental controls that aren’t included in paid versions of other antivirus programs.

Bitdefender’s antivirus suites are among the most popular available, and the free edition of its program is just as powerful as his response its paid-for programs. It’s ad-free and does not have a limit on how many devices it is able to scan, and comes with a comprehensive collection of anti-theft features, such as the ability to track and wipe, lock or lock the contents of a stolen Android device.

Sophos Home Free is ideal for users who must manage antivirus protection for a family member’s computer who doesn’t live in the same household with them. It scores very well for malware detection, however it has a lower score for the phishing.