A number of top antivirus programs provide free versions that are as effective at stopping malware as their premium counterparts. A majority of antivirus programs are low-end, basic program with few features, a mid-range program that has additional security tools and an expensive product with all the bells and bells.

AVG Antivirus The free version of the program offers superior security against malware, with a low impact on the system. AVG Antivirus is free and includes many other useful tools such as junk file cleanup, RAM optimization and Wi-Fi network scanners. It’s also free of ads and does not nag you securely share confidential information to upgrade to premium features.

Microsoft Defender is the default security software for malware that comes preinstalled on Windows systems. Although it’s not the most effective in stopping malware files from downloading on your PC, its free version offers a lot of additional tools, including performance and health analysis and parental controls that aren’t offered in paid versions of other antivirus software.

Bitdefender’s suites of antivirus software are among the most well-known available. The free version is just as effective and powerful as the paid versions. It is free of ads, does not have a limit on how many devices it is able to scan and includes a robust array of anti-theft capabilities, that allow you to track and wipe, lock or lock a stolen Android device.

Sophos Home Free is a great choice for people who need to manage antivirus protection on the computer of a family member who doesn’t live in the same household with them. It has excellent malware detection scores but a weaker score for protection against phishing.