The best online antivirus shields your laptop or computer (and frequently other devices such as routers and IoT home appliances) from malware, ransomware, cryptojackers and phishing attacks, data breaches and much more. Many antivirus programs also offer security tools for cyberspace, such as dark monitoring of websites, device optimization and identity theft security.

The most important feature of any antivirus program is a reliable engine. Every antivirus program needs to detect threats with high precision. Other factors can also help by providing a solid heuristics detection engine as well as behavioral-based security. You should also make sure that the antivirus program you use has a wide selection of anti-malware software security signatures in its database, as well as a comprehensive and thorough collection of scanning techniques.

Windows PCs and Macs have built-in anti-virus software however they aren’t as effective as third-party software. It’s not always updated and can result in missed threats. And it’s often missing the internet security features that make third-party antivirus beneficial, such as parental controls, advanced phishing defenses and web-based security features.

The most popular antivirus programs on the market are Avast, Norton and Kaspersky. Avast’s antivirus is easy to use and has excellent malware detection rates, according the independent lab AV Comparatives. However, the parent company was discovered selling data of users that was anonymized through its Jumpshot service in 2019 and hasn’t completely cleaned its act since it click resources was discovered. Kaspersky has a similar solid alternative, offering a decent detection rate of malware and a wide array of internet security options, including a memory fire wall and banking tools as well as VPNs.