Top 10 Best What Is A Good Antivirus Software of 2026

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is a top-tier antivirus program offering multi-layered protection against viruses, malware, ransomware, zero-day threats, and phishing attacks through real-time scanning and behavioral analysis. It utilizes cloud-based scanning and machine learning for lightning-fast threat detection with minimal false positives. The software also includes web protection, safe banking tools, and a file shredder, all while maintaining low system impact for seamless performance. Its intuitive dashboard makes security management straightforward for all users.

Norton 360 is a comprehensive antivirus and security suite that delivers top-tier malware detection, real-time threat protection, and advanced defenses against ransomware, phishing, and zero-day attacks. It bundles extras like a secure VPN, password manager, 50GB cloud backup, dark web monitoring, and parental controls for all-around digital safety. Supporting unlimited devices on premium plans, it's ideal for multi-device households seeking robust, feature-packed protection.

Kaspersky Anti-Virus is a robust security solution that delivers real-time protection against viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks using advanced heuristic analysis and cloud-assisted scanning. It includes features like safe banking, webcam protection, and system vulnerability assessments to safeguard users across devices. With consistently high scores in independent lab tests, it excels in threat detection while maintaining low system impact.

ESET NOD32 Antivirus is a lightweight, high-performance security solution from ESET that delivers industry-leading malware detection using advanced heuristics, machine learning, and behavioral analysis. It protects against viruses, ransomware, phishing, and exploits with real-time scanning and minimal impact on system speed. The software also includes features like a secure browser, anti-phishing tools, and UEFI scanning for comprehensive defense without unnecessary bloat.

Malwarebytes Premium is a specialized anti-malware tool that delivers real-time protection against malware, ransomware, exploits, and zero-day threats. It excels at detecting and remediating infections that traditional antivirus might overlook, using behavioral analysis and a vast threat database. While lightweight and efficient, it functions more as a malware specialist than a full antivirus suite with extras like firewalls or VPNs.

Avast Premium Security is a comprehensive antivirus suite providing real-time malware protection, ransomware shielding, and advanced web defense against phishing. It includes extras like an unlimited VPN, firewall, password manager, email guardian, and system optimization tools for multi-device coverage on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. With cloud-based threat intelligence from its massive user base, it delivers proactive security without heavily impacting performance.

AVG Ultimate is a comprehensive multi-device security suite from AVG that bundles antivirus protection, a secure VPN, system optimization with TuneUp, and enhanced internet security features. It safeguards Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices against malware, ransomware, phishing, and other threats while optimizing performance and ensuring online privacy. Ideal for users seeking all-in-one protection without managing multiple subscriptions.

Avira Antivirus Pro is a robust security solution offering real-time malware scanning, ransomware protection, phishing defense, and network threat blocking. It bundles extras like a limited VPN, password manager, software updater, and browser safety tools for comprehensive PC protection. Known for its German engineering, it delivers high detection rates with minimal system slowdown.

McAfee Total Protection is a comprehensive security suite offering antivirus, anti-malware scanning, firewall protection, unlimited VPN, password manager, identity monitoring, and web safeguards. It supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices, with plans covering up to unlimited devices for family use. The software focuses on all-around digital safety, including parental controls and secure file shredder tools.

Trend Micro Maximum Security is a comprehensive antivirus suite that delivers multi-device protection for up to 10 devices across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS platforms. It combats malware, ransomware, phishing attacks, and identity theft with AI-powered scanning and behavioral analysis. Additional features include parental controls, a password manager, webcam protection, and tools for safe online banking.