When it comes to defending your PC from malware, there is a wide range of software options. It all depends on what features you need most and your budget.

You should always pick a solution with a constantly updated malware database. This will help it detect new threats before they become widespread.

TotalAV

TotalAV offers comprehensive protection for your PC or Mac against malware and other malicious threats. It proactively scans files being transferred to and from your device, the folders you open, and processes that run on your machine in the background.

Moreover, it can quarantine and remove malicious files to prevent them from spreading. It also allows you to Whitelist certain files, which prevents the antivirus from tagging them as malware.

TotalAV also includes a feature called WebShield, which helps to keep you safe from websites that may pose a security threat. It will display a warning if you visit any site that has been rated as low-trust.

Intego

Intego is a well-known company that offers antivirus software for both Windows and Mac computers. It has a reputation for being an excellent cybersecurity program and is available with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free before you purchase.

Intego has a variety of features and tools, but the most important one is its malware scanner. This is called VirusBarrier and it comes with several efficient elements, including real-time protection, scan scheduling, and malware removal.

The VirusBarrier interface is simple, easy to navigate, and doesn’t include any buttons or other distracting elements. This makes it perfect for those who want a straightforward and quick antivirus scan.

Avira

Avira is a top-rated antivirus product that offers real-time protection. It also has a lot of extra features and a powerful user interface.

Independent labs like AV-Test and AV-Comparatives regularly include it in their best-of lists, which helps Avira gain credibility. But it’s not just about malware protection:

Avira is also packed with features that help speed up your computer, such as disk cleaners and system optimization tools. It even lets you change your performance profile and customize which programs start when you restart your computer.

Malwarebytes

Malwarebytes is a reliable antivirus that focuses on malware detection and removal. It offers a free personal service and a premium plan with additional features such as system tuneup tools, a VPN, and more.

It also offers a 14-day free trial of its business version. Both plans offer protection against viruses, ransomware, and spyware.

Premium users get Real-Time Protection, which stops infections in their tracks before they can do any damage to your device. This feature also defends against phishing scams, fake websites, infected ads, credit card skimmers, and credential stealers.

MacKeeper

MacKeeper is a software package for Mac devices that offers a blend of online protection, sensitive data guards, anti-theft, powerful optimization tools and dedicated customer support.

The suite includes 17 tools and utilities for keeping your device and system secure and optimized. Some of these include File Finder, Update Tracker, Disk Usage and Data Encryptor.

Another cleaning tool is Smart Uninstaller, which detects orphaned files left by apps and unused leftover files that are usually dumped in the trash when you uninstall them. It also removes useless duplicate files from your computer.

Sophos

Sophos is an antivirus software that offers a variety of features designed to keep your computer safe from viruses, malware and spyware. Its simple user interface and online dashboard make it easy to run scans and configure settings.

Sophos also includes essential security features such as Master Boot Record protection, which watches over your computer’s MBR to detect ransomware before it transforms the initial MBR and interrupts the device’s boot process.

Sophos is one of the best antiviruses for home use, with a range of powerful AI threat detection and features like Dynamic Shellcode Protection that protect your device against malicious ransomware that tries to take control of your computer’s Master Boot Record. However, it’s missing a key feature that nearly every other antivirus has – a quick scan option.