Free Antivirus Software for Windows: An antivirus was originally developed to search, detect, and remove toxic files called viruses that are harmful to the computer. With the rapid increase in the number of malware, antivirus software started protecting from other computer threats.
However, modern antivirus software protects users from malicious browser helper objects (BHOs), dialers, malicious LSPs, keyloggers, browser hijackers, worms, ransomware, rootkits, trojan horses, backdoors, fraud tools, adware, and spyware. Some antivirus products also include protection from other computer threats like infected and malicious URLs, advanced persistent threat (APT), scam and phishing attacks, online identity, spam, social engineering techniques, online banking attacks, and botnet DDoS attacks. Free Antivirus Software for Windows
We all know that every computer on this planet and even in the space station can face a virus attack anytime. Therefore, it’s advisable to have antivirus software installed on your PC. Though powerful and effective antivirus will cost some money, thanks to the best free and reliable antivirus available on the internet. Below is the list of free antivirus software for Windows
Deciding on which antivirus to use on your PC or device depends on two main factors; which are the type of operating system you have on your PC (Windows or Mac) and where you are located on this planet. This article explains how to select the best free antivirus that’s compatible with your PC.
How to Selecting Free Antivirus Software
Now let’s get this clear. It’s a sheer myth to believe that Apple or Mac computers, as we know them, are immune to virus attacks. No, they’re not. Since fewer Apple computers, the number of virus attacks is relatively lower.
Some people believe that Apple or Mac computers don’t get affected or attacked by viruses. The answer is NO; they also can be attacked. They are not immune to virus attacks, but the rate they are being attacked is meager compared to other operating systems. About 77% of computers use the Windows OS. Hence, they are common targets for virus attacks.
Furthermore, users have to select antivirus according to their region or country because all antivirus software needs updates. Whenever an antivirus company detects a threat in your region, it will be used as an update to protect your computer.
Note, that it does not mean you should stop downloading antivirus updates because hackers are not targeting your region. It’s advisable to update your antivirus, and before you download it, we recommend you read users’ guides on antivirus on how to defend your computer.
Best Free Antivirus Software
Usually, every operating system comes with a built-in defender (Windows Defender for Windows OS), which is excellent antivirus, but if you wish to use another one, below is the list we have for you.
1. ZoneAlarm Free Antivirus
This antivirus software is not popular because few computer users are aware of ZoneAlarm. It is one of the high-rated antiviruses available on the internet at the moment. It has an eponymous firewall that prevents hackers from gaining illegal access to your PC, and it also prevents certain malware and other attacks. ZoneAlarm is free, and you can download it for firewalls and antivirus.
2. Kaspersky
Kaspersky is another excellent free antivirus for a computer made by Kaspersky Lab, and it has won several accolades for its simple and user-friendly interface. The free version of Kaspersky Antivirus provides basic protection for your computer. Users get an instant notification before opening an email attachment or visiting any suspicious website.
3. Avast: Free Antivirus Software for Windows
Avast antivirus offers three levels of protection for home computers. This includes blocking viruses and malware from attacking computers, exposing threats that may come up from any WiFi connections you are using, and protecting against attacks. Avast secures passwords you may use for any purpose. Thus your computer enjoys all-around protection with this best free antivirus software.
4. AVG Free Antivirus
The interesting features of AVG antivirus are its file shredders and protection against threats that may emerge without warning. It usually comes with several powerful tools like real-time scanning, and auto-scanning that usually works in the background. While you are busy on the internet, AVG is busy preventing unwanted browser add-ons from installing on your computer.
5. Baidu
Surprisingly, the unfamous Baidu free antivirus is the fastest moving up the ranks of the best antivirus. It provides almost every feature of a fully paid version from other brands. The only difference is that you don’t get real-time protection, but the internet security experts say Baidu free antivirus has every necessary feature to protect computers against online threats when you have the best Free Antivirus Software for Windows.
You may also like: Download Windows 10 for Free.
6. Avira: Free Antivirus Software for Windows
If you check on the CNet website today, you will find out that Avira got a 5-star rating by CNet editors. It is widely used as a home PC and laptop antivirus. The free version blocks spyware, malware, ransomware, and other threats from attacking computers. One of the major features of Avira is that it doesn’t slow down your computer, nor does a scan take a longer time to complete. It can be safely used with any good firewall for all-around and full protection.
7. Adaware Antivirus
The latest version of Adaware antivirus is a highly sophisticated version compared to the older version, which internet users widely know. It has all the features for protecting against viruses and threats, malware, and other potential attacks. Adaware offers real-time protection and alerts users when it detects any threats. Scanning is high-speed compared to the earlier version, and it’s widely known to cybersecurity experts.
8. Bitdefender for Windows 10
Bitdefender free antivirus has one unique feature: detecting threats and eliminating them almost instantly. This free antivirus is ideal for home PCs and laptops or devices that require minimal protection. Tests by Internet security experts prove that Bitdefender offers a very high degree of online protection and easy elimination of threats. Hence, any beginner can also use Bitdefender with ease. Like other free antivirus software, Bitdefender also comes with free updates and real-time protection. Free Antivirus Software for Windows
9. 360 Total Security Suite: Free Antivirus Software for Windows
The 360 Total Security suite is another free antivirus that most cybersecurity experts recommend for all computer users. It was formally called Qihoo 360, and it provides a complete internet security suite. The free version offers a complete firewall that protects users’ computers against phishing, hacker attacks, and other online threats. It defends computers from malicious and harmful virus attacks. To use 360 Total isn’t that easy: you will need to take their online tutorial to use all its features effectively.
10. Comodo Free Antivirus
This is a free antivirus developed by one of the topmost online security organizations globally, called AV-Test. Comodo antivirus has all the desirable features for home PC protection, and it offers quick scans, updates, and real-time protection against online threats. It is fairly speedy and doesn’t take up much space on your hard disk. Comodo antivirus is a deal for home PC users who need a simpler, lighter solution to counter online threats.
How to use Antivirus Effectively
Sincerely, one may be wondering what’s there to learn about using antivirus, especially when it’s free. There are three main points to remember for using antivirus effectively.
- Keep auto-updates feature on to ensure maximum protection.
- Turn on the email scan feature. This means this antivirus will also detect any malicious attachments.
- Use free virus detection and removal tools before installing an antivirus in your Windows PC. Some malicious software might prevent your antivirus from detecting it unless you scan and remove it before installation.
Once you have taken these steps, a PC or laptop is fairly safe against potential and everyday online threats.
Conclusion
The free antivirus will only give you fundamental protection against common threats. Therefore, it is advisable to use free antivirus if you will not use a computer for financial transactions or business purposes. It’s worth remembering that free antivirus software doesn’t have all the features of the paid version. Hence, assess your threat levels before using one of the antivirus software mentioned above for the operating system.
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