If you think getting third-party antivirus software for free is possible, we must inform you that it is pretty much possible. The difference in features between paid and free antivirus software is so negligible that you donโt need a paid package.
So, before buying antivirus software, please review our compilation of the best free antivirus software for Windows computers.
Moreover, using a PC without malware protection software depends on a coin toss to decide your future. So if your system is still safe without an antivirus, you are lucky. But certainly, we cannot appreciate your decision.
A good antivirus must have the potential to discard existing malicious programs and further protect your system from ransomware, Trojans, and other kinds of harmful software.
And with the free antivirus software, you will get complete protection without worrying about your budget.
What Viruses Actually Are?
Viruses are unmonitored and unchecked pieces of tiny malicious software that can easily mess up your system without your knowledge. Viruses and malware have evolved.
In earlier times, viruses entered the systems, causing harm, and the story would end here. But nowadays, after corrupting the system data, they ask you for a ransom to regain your precious data.
How Do They Affect Your System?
Viruses can spread anywhere, from email attachments, social media links, and portable storage devices like Pen Drives to unimaginable things like a simple image (.jpeg, .png), an MP3 file that you use to listen to songs, and the list goes on.
So, if you feel vulnerable enough, simply installing antivirus software from the list below will help you significantly reduce the risk. It will protect you from cybercrimes, protect your data from corruption, prevent ransomware attacks, and prevent you from opening malicious files and visiting harmful websites that can harm your system.
Best Free Antivirus Software For Windows 10/11
1. Avast Antivirus
Avast is one of the oldest antivirus companies, operating since 1988, and is used by nearly 500 million worldwide. It has also won the Editorโs Choice award for best free antivirus. Avast is famous mainly due to its powerful virus protection and malware removal tools.
Moreover, users get an easy-to-use interface with many additional features, such as a network security scanner, web browser security, and more. You will also get a do-not-disturb mode that will help you undisputedly watch movies by blocking annoying ad pop-ups.
Compatibility: Windows 8, 8.1, 10
2. Kaspersky Security Cloud
This Russian-made antivirus software can be called one of the most popular in the software market. Its main motto is to offer free protection to users.
However, they have both free and upgradable packages available. But as per their mission, you will get almost every valuable feature in the free Kaspersky Security Cloud.
The most promising features of this virus protection software are a free password manager and a virtual private network (VPN). However, the VPN is limited to 300 MB of daily usage, but we all know โSomething is better than nothing.โ
Compatibility: Windows 8, 8.1, 10
3. AVG AntiVirus
While talking about free antivirus software, we canโt just ignore AVG AntiVirus. Though the virus protection software is free, you will get all the premium features like protection against malicious URLs, unwanted browser add-ons, and checking PC performances in it.
In addition, AVG AntiVirus has built-in features that report any problem as soon as it detects it and sends a report to its developers.
In addition, AVG AntiVirus has been proven to protect computers against hidden malware, such as spyware and ransomware attacks. Thus, this antivirus software is one of the best free tools for PC protection.
Compatibility: Windows 8 and above
4. Sophos Home Free
This antivirus has two varieties, namely Sophos Home and Sophos Business. Among these two, one is paid, and the other one is free to use. But interestingly, you will get all the premium features included in the paid variant in the free one.
Moreover, the software has remote security management, which allows users to manage a computerโs security-related issues remotely.
Sophosโs handy design has also made it popular among non-tech-savvy users. If you need perfect antivirus software with easy mechanics, this one should be your choice.
Compatibility: Windows 7,8, 8.1 and 10
5. Avira Free Security
Suppose you want software that performs essential antivirus functions, such as scanning for malicious words and protesting against harmful URLs. In that case, Avira Free Security will be a good choice.
Avira offers basic functionality and some advanced features, such as cleaning the registry, installing outdated apps, and deleting unnecessary files. It also has a privacy setting that protects all your passwords.
However, the software is designed for advanced users, so the settings are complicated. Therefore, we donโt recommend using antivirus software for the first time. Try this one.
Compatibility: Windows 8 and above
6. Bitdefender Antivirus Free
This Romanian antivirus company is another example of free antivirus software that we can suggest you use. Though itโs mostly famous for its paid variant, the free one is also quite powerful.
Moreover, you will get a simple user interface with no complications involved with the free Bitdefender Software.
Some of its protective functions include malware scanning, ransomware protection, system optimization, and more. It also provides a virtual private network (VPN).
Compatibility: Windows 8, 8.1, 10
7. Panda-Free Antivirus
Panda Free Antivirus is undoubtedly one of the best free antivirus software. It offers real-time protection against malware and spyware. Apart from real-time, you can also schedule the scanning process accordingly.
Using its rescue kit tool, you can run advanced scans. Furthermore, scanning a USB drive is a matter of a moment. The software aims to provide multimedia and a game mode for uninterrupted enjoyment.
Compatibility: Windows 10, 11
8. Malwarebytes
A comprehensive and straightforward software, Malwarebytes is widely known for its remarkable security services. It claims that it can deliver what other software fails. With it, you will get ultimate protection against hackers, malware, spyware, and ransomware.
Real-time threat protection is another key highlight of the software. Furthermore, the browser feature will help you enjoy a faster, safer, and more secure browsing experience. Although it comes with a pro version, you can use the free version.
Compatibility: Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10, 11.
9. Zone Alarm
Zone Alarm is free antivirus software that also provides ultimate firewall protection. It allows you to start scanning your system and remove viruses, spyware, trojan horses, worms, bots, and other malicious threats.
Its wireless network protection feature applies the most secure firewall that provides the best browsing experience. This powerful antivirus also offers customizable scan modes and real-time security updates.
Compatibility: Windows 7 SP1, 10, and 11.
10. Sophos Home
Sophos Home is yet another brilliant antivirus software that you can consider. It encompasses business-grade security for the ultimate security solution for Windows systems.
Its deep malware scan can detect and remove all underlying threats. In addition, Sophos Home has introduced AI threat detection, which will make things easier for you.
Compatibility: Windows 10 and 11.