The best antivirus software of 2019
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1. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus 2019
Our top antivirus software pick is Bitdefender Antivirus Plus 2019 that boast over 500 million users, and offers a full featured package.
Also, comparing test results, such as from leading antivirus testing labs like AV Test, and AV Comparatives, the Bitdefender antivirus products score high ratings.
Bitdefender Antivirus Plus 2019 is easy to get up and running with a simple installation process. However, be aware that creating an online account, including an email address is required prior to the initial download and install.
This program does have some weaknesses which include only protecting three devices without additional licenses, although there are some competitor products only protect one device. Also, this program only works on Windows 10 devices. It is also resource intensive when running, which is a downside for older and less robust systems.
The annual subscription includes automatic upgrades throughout the year for $34.99. This keeps the program always up to date to meet the threats of the latest malware. Multi-year discounts are also available.
2. Norton AntiVirus Basic
Norton Antivirus Basic is their entry level antivirus program. Norton has been around for ages, with a solid reputation earned over decades. Adding to the reputation, Norton offers an excellent value with their annual subscription available at a cost of $29.99.
Norton AntiVirus Basic offers quite a few customization options to control the settings. We also like the URL blocker that can protect from even acquiring the malware by protecting user by blocking visits to known malicious websites. The antivirus program is ever vigilant, and runs continuously, with scanning also available on demand.
Norton AntiVirus Basic also has their Norton Identity Safe, which is a password manager for the browser. However, some users have reported issues with this Chrome extension, including that the password manager randomly stops working, preventing Norton from taking the pole position in our rankings.
3. F-Secure Antivirus SAFE
Here is F-Secure Antivirus SAFE’s winning formula: start with strong antivirus software, and then include even more features to fully protect a user’s system. These tools include banking protection for the safest online shopping, and safety tools that are family centered. Another useful feature looking beyond your Windows computer is a locator for the loss of your Android or iOS mobile device, Additionally, if the device can’t be found, there is the option to remotely lock or delete it which at least keeps the data safe.
On AV-test’s analysis, they found that F-Secure Antivirus SAFE got a high score, although in some cases it was a little overly sensitive as they noted some false positives. However, the pluses include that it runs ‘resource lite,’ and has a easy to use, and simple interface.
The annual subscription of F-Secure Antivirus SAFE runs $34.99 for protection of up to 3 devices.
4. Kaspersky Anti-Virus
For those that seek more of just antivirus protection, and not a full security suite, tha, Kaspersky Anti-Virus is worth a serious look. A side benefit of this approach is that it keeps the cost more affordable, as this program is $29.99 for the annual subscription.
Rather than focusing on too many peripheral features, Kapersky Anti-Virus hones in on the basics of malware prevention and detection, and does them well indeed. Features include blocking of malicious URL’s via web filtering, antivirus scanning for threat removal and detection, and smart monitoring technology to find malware before it brings down your system.
Giving them credence, when tested, AV-Comparatives scored Kapersky Anti-Virus highly.
5. Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security
Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security has a strong reputation for effective antivirus prevention, with expertise in spam and ransomware. It is also noted to be easy to use, and the major antivirus labs give it high marks in their testing suites.
The downside of seeking out every virus like nobody’s business is that it can be a little overly sensitive, with a higher number of false positives when compared to the competition. Furthermore, Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security runs slower and requires more resources than some other products, making this a less preferred choice for an older system.
The upside is that this program is worth the free 30-day trial to fully clean up your system, and see how your system performs with Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security. If you like what you seem then the cost is $29.95 for single device antivirus protection via an annual subscription.