Which Antivirus software should you use?
There are many vendors who produce anti-virus software, and deciding which one to choose can be confusing. Anti-virus software typically performs the same types of functions, so your decision may be driven by recommendations, particular features, availability, or price. Regardless of which package you choose, installing any anti-virus software will increase your level of protection.
Quick Summary of the Best Antivirus Software for 2026
Quick Comparison Table
What does anti-virus software do?
Although details may vary between packages, anti-virus software scans files or your computer’s memory for certain patterns that may indicate the presence of malicious software (i.e., malware). Anti-virus software (sometimes more broadly referred to as anti-malware software) looks for patterns based on the signatures or definitions of known malware. Anti-virus vendors find new and updated malware daily, so it is important that you have the latest updates installed on your computer.
Once you have installed an anti-virus package, you should scan your entire computer periodically.
- Automatic scans – Most anti-virus software can be configured to automatically scan specific files or directories in real time and prompt you at set intervals to perform complete scans.
- Manual scans – If your anti-virus software does not automatically scan new files, you should manually scan files and media you receive from an outside source before opening them. This process includes:
- Saving and scanning email attachments or web downloads rather than opening them directly from the source.
- Scanning media, including CDs and DVDs, for malware before opening files.
How to Choose the Best Antivirus for Your Operating System
Use this simple plan to zero in on the right product:
- Step 1. Identify your operating system’s specific needs. Every platform benefits from protection, but support varies. Pick a solution that’s proven on your OS (Norton shines on Windows, while Intego caters to Mac users).
- Step 2. Check that the antivirus has all the features you want. Beyond detection, consider extras that match your routine — VPN, password vault, parental controls, and more.
- Step 3. Compare the price with other antiviruses on the market. Features and term lengths differ widely. A quick comparison helps you get the best value without paying for fluff.
Browse our top picks by platform:
- Best antiviruses for Windows. Our testing points to Norton as the standout choice.
- Best antiviruses for Mac. Several macOS-focused tools go beyond Apple’s built-ins. We favor Intego for its ease of use and strong protection.
- Best antiviruses for Android. Reliable options are fewer than you’d think. Norton and TotalAV deliver robust malware and web protection.
- Best antiviruses for iOS. iOS still faces phishing, spyware, adware, and identity threats. Our #1 for iPhone and iPad is Norton.
- Best antiviruses for ChromeOS. Choose tools that are verified to work smoothly with Chromebook’s unique setup.
Quick Guide: How to Use an Antivirus
- Install from a reputable source. Visit the official site of your pick. Norton is our example here.
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- Choose a plan that suits your needs. Match features to your devices and look for a refund window — Norton includes a 60-day money-back guarantee.
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- Set up your account. After purchase, register, fill in your details, and select Create Account.
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- Perform an initial full system scan. Install the app and run a complete scan to catch any existing issues.
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- Schedule regular scans. Keep real-time protection on and add periodic full scans to your routine.
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- Use additional security features. Enable the firewall, web protection, anti-phishing, and parental controls. On Windows, Norton’s Private Browser adds extra browsing privacy.
![Quick Guide: How to Use an Antivirus]()
- Stay informed about new features. Check the provider’s announcements for updates that improve security and performance. Norton maintains a dedicated product & service update blog.
![Quick Guide: How to Use an Antivirus]()
Follow these steps to lock down your devices quickly and keep everyday threats at bay with minimal effort.
Built-In vs. Third-Party Antiviruses — Which Is Better?
Third-party suites are the safer route. Built-in tools on Mac and Windows are useful, but full security packages cover more ground and adapt better to modern threats in 2026.
Windows
Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender) is a decent baseline, yet it typically trails leaders like Norton in detection and breadth of features. It also lacks tune-up tools, a password vault, and dark web monitoring.
Install a third-party suite and Windows Defender usually steps aside automatically — sometimes keeping the default firewall if your suite doesn’t replace it. Products like Malwarebytes can run alongside it by design.
macOS
macOS includes web protections, anti-theft options, app review, and a basic scanner. Helpful, but not comprehensive — ransomware, spyware, and adware can still slip through.
For stronger coverage, use a Mac-focused suite with high detection, cleanup utilities, parental controls, and more. Pair Intego or another macOS solution with smart browsing habits for best results.
What Security Threats Can an Antivirus Protect You Against?
Expect solid defenses against the most common risks online:
- Worms. Auto-spreading malware that can corrupt files or operating systems.
- Viruses. Self-replicating code that tampers with your system.
- Adware. Annoying software that floods you with ads, slows performance, and harvests data.
- Trojans. Disguised as safe apps, then turn hostile — spreading and exfiltrating data.
- Spyware. From trackers to keyloggers, it quietly steals sensitive information.
- Ransomware. Encrypts files and demands payment — suites with remediation (such as McAfee) can interrupt encryption.
- Rootkits. Toolsets that seize admin privileges and alter core settings.
- Phishing attempts. Blocks access to known malicious sites before you hand over credentials.
- Browser exploits. Quality suites (like those listed) detect suspicious behavior and block hijacks, including JavaScript-based attacks such as SocGholish.
No solution blocks everything forever, but pairing a trusted suite with safe habits dramatically reduces your risk.
Recap
With different types of virus scans out there, it’s important to choose the right one, and to perform it at the right time. Otherwise, you can be stuck watching your computer slow down as it scans every file you’ve ever downloaded. The sweet spot? Run quick scans daily (they only take a few minutes), schedule full scans weekly during off-hours, and use custom scans whenever you download files from unfamiliar sources. The easiest way to protect yourself from viruses is to do scheduled scans; that way, you’ll never forget to do them manually.
