Best antivirus software in 2024 for Windows, Android, Mac and iOS

In today’s digital age, 100% effective antivirus protection is impossible as new malware is created daily, capable of bypassing even the strongest defenses. However, the best antivirus software, such as TotalAV and Norton 360, are constantly advancing their tools and technologies to address these challenges successfully.

As part of the VPNpro team, my ongoing curiosity about antivirus software has given me the opportunity to observe the rise and fall of various providers over the years. Through hands-on testing of numerous antivirus solutions, I’ve gained valuable insights into their performance. TotalAV, in particular, has consistently impressed me, not only in my personal evaluations but also in independent testing, solidifying its place as one of the top antivirus software available today.

In this article, I’ll be sharing the latest test results and insights on the best antivirus software as of December 2024. Through thorough hands-on testing and in-depth research of third-party reviews, I’ve gathered the most reliable and up-to-date information to help you make an informed decision. Keep on reading!

Top 5 best antivirus software in December 2024: shortlist

1. TotalAV

   Best overall antivirus software for total protection
   9.7
2. Norton Antivirus

   Top antivirus software with extra security features
   9.1
3. Bitdefender Antivirus

   Best anti-virus software with fast malware detection and removal
   9.4
4. Surfshark Antivirus

   Most user-friendly antivirus with VPN for all devices
   8.8
5. Avira

   Robust antivirus with best internet security suite for families
   8.1

How I tested the best antivirus software

Nowadays, selecting effective security software is more crucial than ever with new online threats emerging every day. While the highest number of malware attacks occurred before 2020, there were still approximately 6 billion reported cases in 2023, underscoring the ongoing need for robust protection.

I used a versatile approach to test each antivirus provider. The tests took place on Windows Server 2022 and Macbook Air M2 computers. Here’s a glimpse of my step-by-step process:

1. In-house testing. This hand-on approach involved browsing the web and deliberately accessing unsafe domains. This manner of testing let me directly assess how effectively and swiftly an antivirus can detect and resolve the threats.
2. Custom-made malware. I used my own malware files tailored for specific testing scenarios. These files were carefully controlled and used to simulate new, unfamiliar threats that antivirus software may not encountered before.
3. Independent lab results. It’s essential to consider other perspectives, so I assigned final scores in conjunction with respected third-party labs like AV-Test and AV-Comparatives.

Best antivirus software: detailed list

1. TotalAV – the best antivirus software providing great value for money
2. Norton – top antivirus solution with exceptional malware detection
3. Bitdefender – best virus protection with extra security features
4. Surfshark Antivirus – well-rounded anti-virus software for multi-device protection
5. Avira – top antivirus with speedy scans and best internet security

Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive solution or hunting for specific features, my Top 5 antivirus picks will cater to all your needs. The providers made the final cut after rigorous testing. I also overviewed the assets they bring, like real-time protection, firewall, scans, additional features, impact on performance, and pricing plans. Let’s dive right into it.

1. TotalAV Pro Antivirus – the best antivirus software for internet security in 2024

TotalAV Pro Antivirus stands out as the best antivirus software for comprehensive protection against a wide range of viruses and malware. With a near-perfect malware detection rate, hefty extras, and minimal impact on system performance, it’s an ideal security option for every household.

This intuitive interface spans Windows, MacOS, Android, and iOS devices, making it a perfect fit for newbies. Also, it puts minimal strain on PC and mobile systems. Furthermore, I found the installation process swift – it only took me about 5 minutes, and the whole process was straightforward and well-led.

In-house test results. Security-wise, TotalAV leaves little room for fine-tuning. Even without the firewall, the antivirus maintained a constant 100% success rate at detecting and blocking malware. My own tests align with data from AV-Comparatives. I hid 10 malware files, from viruses to Trojans—TotalAV sniffed all of them. All of the detected malware samples were quarantined and could either be deleted or restored.

Independent test results. Independent evaluations have consistently affirmed Total AV Pro Antivirus as a premium cybersecurity solution. In AV-TEST (May-Jun 2024), it received impressive scores of 5.5/6 in Protection, 5.5/6 in Performance, and a perfect 6/6 in Usability. Plus, AV-Comparatives March 2024 tests have given the TotalAV Advanced award, confirming its position among the top competitors in the industry.

Security features. TotalAV offers many security and optimization features like WebShield, or Device Tune-Up. I found WebShield particularly valuable, as it effectively blocked dangerous URLs, phishing sites, and other online threats. The Device Tune-Up feature also significantly improved my computer performance by decluttering junk files, clearing cookies and cache, and freeing up disk space. These optimization tools enhanced my overall user experience—and advantage over other competitors like Norton AV. For a more in-depth look, I recommend checking out the TotalAV review.

Price. The most popular tier – TotalAV Antivirus Pro – comes with a moderate price tag of $2.42/month, most suitable for general use, and allows up to 4 devices. TotalAV Internet Security plan for $3.25/month includes a solid VPN feature and allows up to 6 devices. Lastly, you can get a well-rounded security with TotalAV Total Security package, coming for $4.08/month and up to 8 devices. If you’re curious to explore the nooks and crannies of the premium service, you can do so risk-free with a 7-day free trial and the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Best for: TotalAV Pro Antivirus is a comprehensive antivirus software packed with advanced security features and system optimization tools. It’s designed for seamless daily use, providing robust protection against malicious files and viruses while maintaining system performance. This makes it ideal for users who require strong cybersecurity without compromising their device’s speed and efficiency.

For a deeper investigation of TotalAV, read our TotalAV review.

2. Norton 360 Antivirus – top antivirus with excellent malware protection for all devices

Norton is the best antivirus for malware protection in 2024, offering extensive features, such as real-time monitoring, smart Firewall, secure VPN, Cloud storage, and more. It’s a rock-solid addition to your cybersecurity package on all major operating systems and devices. The installation process took me approximately 7 minutes, though navigating the interface required additional time.

In-house test results. During Norton Antivirus review process, the software impressively fended off a whopping 100% of threats, including ransomware, malware, and malvertising. The malware protection effectiveness lies in Norton’s AI (artificial intelligence) and machine learning implementation. All of the detected malware samples were automatically deleted.

Independent test results. Based on independent test results, Norton 360 Antivirus is also a premium security software. In the AV-TEST (May-Jun 2024) evaluation, it received an impressive 6/6 score across all three categories—Protection, Performance, and Usability. However, the AV-Comparatives March 2024 test results were less favorable, with Norton 360 Antivirus receiving only a Standard award due to a higher number of false positives.

Security features. Apart from the standard firewall, real-time protection, and malware scans, Norton 360 plans offer rich hosts of hefty extras. For instance, a password manager helped me create strong passwords and keep them in a safe vault. For families, the built-in parental controls ensure a safe online environment for the little ones. And the list goes on to cater to different needs of people: a VPN, ad blocker, system optimization tools, etc.

Price. You can snag one of the best antivirus software for the starting price of $2.50/month. Norton offers three more plans: Standard for $39.99/year, Deluxe for $49.99/year, and Select for $99.99/year. Considering the extensive range of features offered, it’s undeniably an excellent price-and-value ratio. While Norton doesn’t have a free version, you can tinker with the software commitment-free during the 30-day free trial. Better yet, the 60-day money-back guarantee prolongs the free use of Norton 360.

Best for: Norton 360 Antivirus is best for advanced malware protection, real-time threat monitoring, secure VPN access, cloud storage, and multi-device security, making it ideal for safeguarding personal data across various platforms.

For a deeper investigation of Norton Antivirus, read our Norton Antivirus review.

3. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus – excellent antivirus software for PC and mobile

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is a good antivirus solution known for its excellent malware protection and minimal system impact. It includes features like real-time threat detection, anti-phishing, multi-layer ransomware protection, parental control, and a VPN for internet security. Setting up the app was easy on both PC and mobile devices. It took me only around 5 minutes to install Bitdefender, and the whole process was smooth sailing.

In-house test results. With this AV by your side, you can confidently navigate the web. The Bitdefender analysis affirms independent labs like AV-Comparatives’ results. In total, the antivirus consistently scores a 98% rate against malware. It successfully prevented most zero-day and older malware-infected files, including the stimulated ones – 9 out of 10, missing a single miner malware. The detected malware samples were categorized by threat level, and some were deleted, while the others were quarantined. The dynamic firewall is the goldmine of Bitdefender, elevating your device security tenfold.

Independent test results. According to the latest AV-TEST (May-Jun 2024) results, Bitdefender has been confirmed as a Top product, achieving a perfect score of 6/6 in all three categories (Protection, Performance, Usability). Furthermore, the most recent AV-Comparatives March 2024 results awarded Bitdefender the Advanced+ rating. This outstanding performance secures its well-deserved recognition.

Security features. As one of the top players in the industry, Bitdefender antivirus offers a range of features, varying on the selected pricing tier. For example, I found VPN and ad blocker quite useful while surfing the internet. Meanwhile, data breach scanning and anti-theft tools reinforced my data security.

Price. The good news is that Bitdefender doesn’t rip you for the premium service. The lowest tier price starts at $0.83/month, which lets you tap into the antivirus’s potential. The price also depends on device count and subscription duration. While there is a free version, it only covers very basic security. If you’re a curious cat, feel free to take advantage of the 30-day free trial period and prolong it with the 30-day money-back guarantee.

Best for: Bitdefender Antivirus Plus excels in quick scans and internet security, providing advanced professional protection from all types of viruses and malware. It’s ideal for everyone wanting all-around protection without additional thoughts and worries.

For a deeper investigation of Bitdefender Antivirus, read our Bitdefender Antivirus review.

4. Surfshark Antivirus – sturdy antivirus with a great all-round internet security suite

Surfshark AV is one of the best antivirus solutions in the market toppled with a rock-solid VPN and features for expanding your agency online. During my runs, Surfshark never really consumed a striking amount of CPU resources on PC and mobile devices even during full-system scans. Personally, the installation was done before the drop of the hat – took around 6 minutes to set up the app.

In-house test results. Regarding protection business, my Surfshark evaluation results align well with those of AV-Test and AV-Comparatives since I saw a stable 100% success rate against malware. It sniffed out my hidden malware files right away with a perfect 10/10. The detected malware samples were quarantined, and allowed the user to either delete or restore them.

Independent test results. According to the latest AV-TEST (May-Jun 2024) results, Surfshark Antivirus is a certified Top Product, with 6/6 score in Protection, 5.5/6 score in Performance, and 6/6 score in Usability. These results allowed me to consider Surfshark as a strong antivirus software provider among competitors.

Security features. The antivirus boasts an array of advanced features. I was impressed by the Alternative ID, which actively shielded me from online stalking, data breaches, identity theft. Meanwhile, Private Search Engine was useful to avoid intrusive data tracking and stumbling upon malicious domains. Of course, I also got the famous Surfshark VPN, which unlocked all doors for torrenting, streaming, and other geo-blocked activities.

Price. You can reclaim your online privacy and safety in an instant if you grab Surfshark AV for a price of $4.25/month. While the price seems greater than those of competitors, the antivirus software offers a variety of unique high-tech features, and a full-fledged VPN. But if you wish to check out the service first, feel free to with a 7-day free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee.

Best for: Surfshark Antivirus is best for users who don’t want to buy a bunch of different products for their needs. Surfshark One bundle includes a comprehensive antivirus solution, premium VPN, and other security perks. It is ideal for those who prioritize privacy and security across multiple devices.

5. Avira Prime Antivirus – a good antivirus with fast scanning and an effective malware removal tool

Avira Prime Antivirus is a great choice for those who wish to have reliable protection against digital threats without compromising system performance. It stands out for its lightweight nature and excellent safety without slowing down your device, even during the most advanced scans. The installation time depends on the device. For me, it took around 5 minutes and the whole process was straightforward and very easy to follow.

In-house test results. With Avira Prime Antivirus you won’t have to worry since my in-house test results showed 100% success rate at detecting and blocking malware. It successfully detected and blocked 10 out of 10 planted malware samples. All of them were quarantined and allowed the user to either delete or restore them.

Independent test results. The latest independent AV-TEST (May-June, 2024) confirmed Avira Prime Antivirus to be a top product. It received 6/6 Protection, 5.5/6 Performance, and 6/6 Usability scores, proving its effectiveness and well-deserved position in the market. Additionally, in the AV-Comparatives March 2024 tests Avira Prime Antivirus was given the Advanced award. The result was lower than expected due to false alarms (12 in total) that Avira caught during the tests with clean files. Overall, Avira Prime Antivirus constantly ranks among the top antivirus products according to independent test results.

Security features. Premium Avira Prime Antivirus service offers robust security features to protect your computer against malware. Real-time protection is enabled by default and covers you all the time. Meanwhile, different scan options allowed me to choose between selected files or full device scans. I found an advanced firewall to be quite useful as it adds another layer of security. Bonus features include VPN (for private browsing), password manager, safe shopping (a browser extension to block trackers and malicious ads), file shredder (a secure way to remove files), and system optimization.

Price. Get well-rounded protection from viruses and malware for $2.25/month. If you’re unsure of all the benefits of the subscription, try a free version instead (just remember that it doesn’t include all the perks you can find in a premium version). All subscription plans also come with a generous 60-day money-back guarantee.

Best for: packed with robust features and real-time scan, Avira Prime Antivirus effectively guards against ransomware, malware, viruses, and phishing attempts, making it suitable for both casual and professional users.

Other antivirus providers that didn’t make my list

• Kaspersky Antivirus Software. While there’s no denying that Kaspersky is a good antivirus, Kaspersky Lab is based in Moscow. Consequently, the US government and official institutions are prohibited from using Kaspersky Lab products, including the antivirus, in 2017. I also don’t recommend Kaspersky due to the current geopolitical situation, therefore you should look for the best Kaspersky alternatives. It's best to use caution until the possible connections with Russia are officially denied.
• Avast Antivirus. Avast usually appears in the top lists of best antivirus software recommendations. However, allegations that Avast was involved in collecting and selling user data keep me away from this provider. Though data collection was shut down back in 2020, the company never regained the trust of users. I, too, find their data policies still quite vague. For this reason, I refuse to recommend Avast antivirus.
• Webroot. Webroot didn’t make the cut as a reliable antivirus software due to the limited protection against certain types of malware. My thorough testing found that its malware protection fell somewhat short of my expectations. For example, the anti-phishing and privacy monitoring tools were quite poor. Though it has a low impact on the devices, the protection simply isn’t worth the investment.

Compare antivirus software by their protection capabilities

How to choose the best antivirus for 2024?

With multiple antivirus software in the market is crucial to make an informed decision when choosing the one for your needs. Here are the specific attributes and features that define the best antivirus, and that I also highly considered:

• Device support. An antivirus must have solid device protection for major operating systems–Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac, Android, iOS, and Chromebook.
• False positives. Excessive alerts over wrongly classified apps, websites, and files are unacceptable. Truly best antivirus solutions must have at least as possible, or none at all. I also delved into the effectiveness of their firewalls: their response time and whitelisting.
• Ease of use and CPU load. I closely monitored the impact on device performance. In my opinion, the best antivirus software must have a minimal drain on system resources during demanding full-scope scans. Besides, the app design shouldn’t confuse the user as it’s general-use software. So, I ensured you get options with sleek design and intuitive dashboards.
• Additionals. Antivirus software is no longer limited to malware detection and removal. To maintain a competitive edge, it must offer a rich experience and hefty tools, such as parental control, anti-theft protection, VPNs, and more.
• Affordable plans. Affordability and value are paramount when making the final decision. I believe users should have a range of pricing tiers to fit their specific needs without breaking the bank.

What is the most widely used antivirus software?

Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, and Kaspersky are the most widely used antivirus software providers. These providers have a well-established place in the market and offer advanced protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing. Some of these are also great for additional features, such as VPN, parental controls, or password managers. Norton and McAfee, in particular, are known for their presence in pre-installed systems, while Bitdefender is praised for its advanced security features.

However, popularity shouldn’t be the only case when choosing antivirus software (e.g., I wouldn’t recommend opting for Kaspersky even if it has an audience). Some providers are more expensive, or more suitable for business. That’s why TotalAV is a great choice for independent users or families who don’t want to spend the bank on the service.

Get the utmost security with TotalAV

What is the number one best free antivirus?

Bitdefender offers the best free antivirus version due to its strong malware protection and lightweight design. It provides all the necessary essentials, such as real-time threat detection, on-demand scanning, and web protection. It’s one of those services where you can get the same level of security as for the paid subscription.

However, it is necessary to be cautious with free antivirus software because some of them can have unfortunate limitations, such as reduced protection, resulting in security risks. They also may have fewer features and slower updates compared to paid versions. Plus, some free services collect user data for advertising purposes or may include unwanted software. Finally, due to their limitations, they usually lack comprehensive protection against more advanced malware or other threats. I recommend always researching and choosing a reputable provider to ensure that your device security isn’t compromised.

Additional antivirus software features

While real-time protection is a crucial feature of an antivirus for immediate threat elimination, it’s beneficial for antivirus software to offer more. Many providers include additional features that enhance security, functionality, and system performance. Here are the key extras an antivirus should offer:

• Firewall. A firewall is a valuable feature that blocks unauthorized access and potential attacks, helping prevent malware. Norton 360 Antivirus offers an advanced firewall that meets everyone’s needs.
• Secure VPN. A VPN in an antivirus is a great tool to access exclusive content thanks to geo-block circumvention and web traffic encryption. Currently, the best antivirus with a VPN is the Surfshark One due to its powerful malware protection and secure, high-speed VPN.
• Password manager. This tool simplifies managing credentials by generating strong, unique passwords and storing them securely under a master password, so you don’t have to remember or create them yourself. By getting TotalAV subscription, you will also get this valuable tool.
• Parental controls. For all the parents out there, this feature lets you monitor and manage your children’s online activities and ventures, ensuring they’re safe and sound on the vast web. The best antivirus software with great parental controls is Bitdefender Antivirus Plus.
• Identity theft protection. Protecting your online identity is essential. These features monitor your personal data and alert you to suspicious activity, helping prevent identity theft. Norton 360 Antivirus is the best software that offers this feature
• Device optimization tools. Even tech-savvy users can struggle with cluttered files and apps. An antivirus with performance-boosting tools clears unnecessary items to keep your system running smoothly, all with just a few click. By choosing TotalAV antivirus, you won’t have to worry anymore about the cluttered device.

Are antivirus necessary in 2024?

Antivirus is always necessary as new types of viruses and malware are created every day. The annual damage by cybersecurity threats has been rising exponentially since early 2000s, and according to Unit 42 report of 2023, exploitation to vulnerabilities increased 55% compared to 2021. Malware, ransomware, and phishing schemes are some of the most prevalent threats, making security tools critical for protection. An extra layer of protection is essential for removing more sophisticated threats that can take all shape and form. For example, PDFs are on the most popular file to deliver malware as an email attchment. Currently, only 46% of Americans are using thrid-party antivirus, but the other half would highly benefit from such protection as well.

Final thoughts

With the digital world being full of various threats, having strong antivirus protection is more necessary than ever. A reliable antivirus ensures your device and data stay secure, so you don’t have to face those risks alone.

TotalAV is the best antivirus software in 2024 for its real-time threat detection, feature-packed toolkit, and user-friendly design. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Norton 360 Antivirus offers excellent protection for your device without breaking the bank. As for those wanting well-rounded internet security alongside malware protection, Surfshark Antivirus has you covered!

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You may also like to read:
Best antivirus for Windows 11
Best antivirus for iPhone & iPad
Best antivirus for Chromebook
Antivirus without auto-renewal
TotalAV antivirus review
Norton antivirus review
Bitdefender antivirus review

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FAQ

What can the antivirus software protect the computers from?

Antivirus software is an essential safety net for your computer. It protects against a variety of threats, viruses, malware, ransomware, spyware, and trojans. Additionally, it safeguards against phishing attacks, malicious downloads, and continuously targets system vulnerabilities.

Which software is best for malware removal?

TotalAV is the best software for malware removal because of its powerful scanning engine and advanced malware detection. With additional features such as web protection and system optimization, TotalAV ensures comprehensive security for everyone.

What is the best program to stop ransomware?

TotalAV is the best program to stop ransomware. Due to its real-time and web protection, it’s a solid choice to effectively block any suspicious activity before ransomware can encrypt files or do other damage.

Which antivirus firewall is best?

Bitdefender has the best antivirus firewall. It’s easy to use, effective and provides comprehensive protection. A firewall is an essential feature because it prevents unauthorized access to your computer.

How do antivirus products work?

Antivirus softwares are made to detect and eliminate any potential harm to your computer, such as malicious files, ransomware, trojan horses, viruses, spyware, etc. Antivirus program usually runs in the background, actively scaning your files and activity for any harmful threats.

How to run an antivirus scan?

You can run the selected antivirus scan with an Antivirus app. Open the Antivirus software, select the scan (most offer quick, full, or custom scan), and start the process by selecting Scan or Start.

Which type of antivirus scan provides the best protection for a typical home user?

Every household will benefit from a real-time scan as it always monitors the computer for any potential harm. It is also recommended to do a full scan from time to time for a more thorough check-up.