When it comes to the computer, all security is low. Much of our lives depend on our computer files and our internet searches. A good antivirus protects your computer from attacks by other people with bad intentions. But not all of us have the money to buy an antivirus. Fortunately, there are several free options that do a good job...
Before you begin, learn about these important definitions: Malware is programs that attack your computer. Phishing is when a fraudulent website collects the user's personal data.
1. Kaspersky
The paid version of Kaspersky is recognized as one of the best antiviruses in the world. The free version also offers very good protection but less features. For those who want basic protection but with guaranteed quality, this is the ideal program.
- It works with: Windows
- Malware protection: Excellent
- Phishing protection: Excellent
- Other functions: VPN protection
Avast
Avast is one of the most popular antiviruses in the world. Leveraging the experience of over 400 million users, Avast offers very good all-round protection. The program is quite easy to use. But be careful: if you don't want the company to collect your personal information, you have to turn off this function manually.
- It works with: Windows, Mac e Android
- Malware protection: very good
- Phishing protection: Excellent
- Other functions: Wi-Fi inspector, password manager, warnings for software updates for other programs, website security rating
3. Bitedefender
For those who just want the basics, but with quality, Bitdefender is perfect. The program defends against files with viruses and fraudulent websites. If you don't like being bothered by notifications, Bitdefender has an “autopilot” mode. But, for those who want more protection, only in the paid version.
- It works with: Windows, Mac e Android
- Malware protection: very good
- Phishing protection: Excellent
- Other functions: only in paid version
4. AVG
AVG is a well-known antivirus that has been around for a long time. The free version is easy to use and very good at protecting against dangerous files. It's not perfect, but it's a good option for those who want simple but efficient protection.
- It works with: Windows, Mac e Android
- Malware protection: very good
- Phishing protection: average
- Other functions: data destruction of dangerous files, website security information and extra protection against online data collection
5. Avira
Avira has been around for decades and offers many different functions that you can download all at once or separately. The program does a relatively good job, but it's very slow. Its big advantage is the range of other free security products you can choose from.
- It works with: Windows, Mac, Android e iPhone
- Malware protection: good
- Phishing protection: average
- Other functions: Avira product manager, “ghost” VPN, extra protection against online data collection, warnings for software updates for other programs, online price comparison
6.Comodo Internet Security
For those who want to protect their transactions on the internet, Comodo is very good. The program also protects the computer relatively well from files with viruses. Comodo also offers some other functions, like an unknown file analysis program.
- It works with: Windows
- Malware protection: average
- Phishing protection: very good
- Other functions: program for safe online shopping, safe analysis of unknown programs
7.Panda
Panda is a lightweight and simple to use program. It has good essential computer protection. A good alternative, which competes with the best. Panda also has several paid options for those who want more protection.
- It works with: Windows
- Malware protection: average
- Phishing protection: average
- Other functions: virus protection on pen drives, recovery kit in case of infection
8. Qihoo 360 Total Security
360 Total Security provides basic security for your computer, along with many other functions. The program does much more than protect. It seeks to improve the functioning of the computer.
- It works with: Windows, Mac e Android
- Malware protection: average
- Phishing protection: average
Other functions: multi-computer monitoring app, system optimization, prompts for software update of other programs, easy installation of other programs
9. Baidu
Baidu stands out for being very lightweight and quick to install. The program does not take up much space on the computer and provides basic protection. However, the protection is not the most effective. It might be good to use Baidu in conjunction with another protection program.
- It works with: Windows
- Malware protection: average
- Phishing protection: weak
- Other functions: online ad blocking, system fixer
