Top 6 Best Antivirus Software | 2017 Ranking | Top Antivirus Software Reviews & Comparison

2017 RANKING & REVIEWS
TOP RANKING BEST ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARES

Protecting Your Devices with the Best Antivirus Software

Your computers and devices are highly important to your daily activities and work life. Now more than ever, we must make sure that we are taking the necessary steps to keep them protected with good antivirus software. Program choices abound for the best antivirus software that money can buy. 

Award Emblem: Top 6 Best Antivirus Software

According to one source, there are between 200,000 and 300,000 new viruses developed each day. With statistics like these, it’s important that we are paying close attention to where the latest threats are coming from while we read emails or browse the web.

Unfortunately, most of us lack the technological know-how to stop the attacks on our own. We couldn’t even begin to identify a dangerous file from a safe one, which is where an antivirus software comparison comes into play. When you compare antivirus software, you have to know which features each program has that would benefit you as a user.

No matter what your budget may be, AdvisoryHQ has a solution for your computer protection needs. Our antivirus software list provides options for the top antivirus software that range from free to just over $100 per year. You’ll want to take a closer look at this antivirus software comparison before you download anything else.

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AdvisoryHQ’s List of the Top 6 Best Antivirus Softwares

List is sorted alphabetically (click any of the programs below to go directly to the detailed review section for that antivirus software):

• Avast
• AVG Antivirus Free
• Avira Antivirus Pro
• Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
• F-Secure Antivirus
• Kaspersky Antivirus

Top 6 Best Antivirus Softwares | Brief Comparison & Ranking

Table: Top 6 Best Antivirus Softwares | Above list is sorted alphabetically

Do I Really Need Antivirus Software?

Many consumers are still asking the question of whether or not the top antivirus software would really make a difference on their personal computer. Unlike a business, personal computers don’t hold sensitive client data and files.

Is it really worth the cost of the options in our antivirus software comparison?

Many people are trying to get by without the cost of the best antivirus software on the market. Depending on your usage and comfort level, it turns out that you may not need to purchase anything at all for your computer. That being said, having the top antivirus software at your disposal isn’t likely to hurt anything either.

Image Source: Pexels

According to experts at CNet, the most popular internet browsers often employ some type of more advanced security features on their own. Because viruses and other types of malware tend to find their way in via the internet, these forms of protection do offer one layer of security for end-users.

They recommend heeding the recommendations of browsers like Google Chrome. If it states that a website may be dangerous, choose to browse elsewhere instead.

With safe browsing habits (including only opening and downloading files from those you know), you may not need to purchase any of the items you find in an antivirus software comparison. Safe web browsing can go a long way toward keeping your computer free of viruses for the long-haul.

The other option that many consumers choose to use is combining free versions of the latest antivirus software with these safe habits. This offers an additional layer of protection that cannot be understated when it comes time to compare antivirus software. Free downloads of programs from reputable sources don’t cause consumers to lose out on anything at all.

If you rely heavily on your computer, you may want to opt for one of the more robust programs in our antivirus software comparison. The additional cost may be worth the extra peace of mind it can afford you in sparing your files or information from disaster.

AdvisoryHQ’s Selection Methodology

What methodology does AdvisoryHQ use in selecting and finalizing the credit cards, financial products, firms, services, and products that are ranked on its various top rated lists?

Please click here “AdvisoryHQ’s Ranking Methodologies” for a detailed review of AdvisoryHQ’s selection methodologies for ranking top rated credit cards, financial accounts, firms, products, and services.

Detailed Review – Top Ranking Best Antivirus Softwares

Below, please find the detailed review of each program on our list of top antivirus software. We have highlighted some of the factors that allowed these antivirus softwares to score so highly in our selection ranking.

Avast Review

Avast tends to consistently rank among the top antivirus software options, particularly for those who want a free solution. When you compare antivirus software, you’ll find that Avast has a robust system available for all computer types. One of the best antivirus softwares in the market, Avast already covers more than 400 million people on their computers and devices.

Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This as One of the Top Antivirus Softwares

The company that makes this top antivirus software is frequently included in an antivirus software comparison. It features a cloud-based security structure that allows this latest antivirus software to view potential threats in advance.

With this unique system, they block more than one billion potential attacks each month using the best antivirus software that they can create. When you compare antivirus software, it is important to note that Avast has the largest user base on all types of platforms.

Program

One of the best things to mention in an antivirus software comparison is the fact that their program is free, to an extent. While many users will readily take this free protection, it’s critical to know what features to expect from the top rated antivirus software when you aren’t paying a dime:

• Protection from viruses, malware, spyware, ransomware, and phishing
• Wi-Fi inspector
• Personal real-time threat detection
• Smart Scan to identify problems and offer solutions quickly

Other key features to make note of on these best antivirus softwares are their password and browser functions. Not only is it safe to browse through the internet or bank while using Avast, but it also stores all of your passwords for you. All you need to do is create a master password and this top antivirus software can save you a few steps on each webpage.

Pricing

The most appealing feature of this top rated antivirus software is the free option available for download. However, users who prefer the more advanced protection plans available for their PC will want to consider upgrading to their pro or premier plans.

The middle range platform, Pro Antivirus, is still an affordable choice when you compare antivirus software pricing. It comes in at $49.99 per year on just one PC. Premier, the top of the line antivirus software from Avast, covers one computer per year for $79.99.

AVG Antivirus Free Review

AVG is a leading name when it comes time to compare antivirus software for both consumers and businesses. They offer basic and upgraded plans, both of which put them in a great position to be acknowledged for one of the best antivirus softwares on the market today.

Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This as One of the Top Antivirus Softwares

This past year brought plenty of changes for AVG, including being brought under the Avast umbrella. By combining with the largest company for the best antivirus software, AVG has plenty of impressive features to continue to include on an antivirus software comparison.

Some of the antivirus software reviews point out that the uncertainty over this acquisition could call the program into question. However, for the time being, AVG is still considered to be a strong contender to include on our antivirus software list.

Program

Much like the basic Avast program, the AVG Antivirus Free can work quickly to restore your computer and keep it in tip-top shape. According to reviews of an antivirus software comparison, it has a high rating when it comes to real world protection rates and few false positives.

The newest version of the top antivirus software has gotten a much-needed update from previous versions. The interface appears to be significantly more user-friendly, and the features have become a lot stronger also. When you compare antivirus software, you will want to note these impressive functions:

• Real-time security updates
• Malware and performance issue scans
• Catches malicious downloads in advance
• Blocks unsafe links, downloads, and email attachments
• Stops viruses, spyware, and other forms of malware

Pricing

The AVG antivirus software is a great option for users who want to make the most of a free program. It doesn’t cost you a dime to download on a Mac, PC, or Android product of your choosing.

Much like Avast, you also have the opportunity to spring for an upgrade to their other best antivirus softwares. Claiming to offer an advanced level of protection over the very basic capabilities of the free version, the Unlimited top rated antivirus software from AVG costs just $69.99 per year on unlimited computers.

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Avira Antivirus Pro Review

According to independent testing, Avira Antivirus Pro certainly has some impressive capabilities when it comes to keeping your computer safe from attack. It has a handful of unique capabilities (including anonymizing your web surfing) that aren’t often included in some of the other best antivirus softwares.

Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This as One of the Top Antivirus Softwares

The Avira Antivirus Pro software offers a robust and comprehensive solution for the top antivirus software. Particularly for consumers who want a security suite at an affordable rate, Avira has a lot to offer consumers with a Mac, Android, or Windows product.

In the 2016 AV Comparatives, Avira scored a number of awards. Popular titles included best real-world protection (silver), product of the year, best overall speed, and malware removal (silver).

Program

Claiming to be the first-ever full security package offered for free, the Avira program is a top choice for most consumers who are trying to compare antivirus software. These best antivirus softwares can remove malware and ransomware for a unique and effective option included in a thorough antivirus software comparison.

You also have the option to use their Avira Phantom VPN for free with the top rated antivirus software. Our antivirus software reviews should mention that this allows you to effectively hide your IP address, encrypts your communication, and confuses advertisers.

It also works hard to keep your computer performing well as time passes. When you compare antivirus software, you should recognize that this program helps to free up disk space as needed.

Real-time updates on this good antivirus software are available when you download the security suite.

Pricing

The best bargain when you compare antivirus software pricing, the Avira security suite can be downloaded to your computer for free. This gives you access to all of the basic functions of many of the good antivirus software choices available today. However, users who are prone to more web surfing and who may be more vulnerable should consider upgrading:

• Optimization Suite: Offers device control, secures shopping – $57.99 per year
• Total Security Suite: Offers all features of the Optimization Suite plus manages your firewall – $109.99 per year

Image Source: Avira

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Bitdefender Antivirus Plus Review

Bitdefender has already been classified as one of the top contenders among several companies who issued an antivirus software comparison. More than 500 million users rely on this latest antivirus software to shield their devices from major attacks, malware, and spyware. They can also offer antivirus solutions for personal and business usage.

Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This as One of the Top Antivirus Softwares

Similar to Avast, Bitdefender’s system is based upon a cloud-based security system which offers an estimated 20% improvement compared to traditional models. This slightly leaner contender for the best antivirus software has one of the smallest footprints as well as centralized security.

Some antivirus software reviews are even willing to go so far as to give Bitdefender a perfect score when it comes security. In an industry review from TopTenReviews.com, Bitdefender earned a ten out of ten for a first place victory.

Program

The Bitdefender Plus best antivirus software has a lot of advanced features that should be mentioned when you are attempting to compare antivirus software. Making good use of artificial intelligence, they have the following noteworthy capabilities for our antivirus software comparison:

• Protection from viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, rootkits, and spyware
• Active threat control to monitor apps
• Autopilot for decision-making without pop-ups
• Social media protection
• Separate browser for secure transactions

Compared to the other top choices for the best antivirus softwares, the Bitdefender Plus ranked higher than Kaspersky, Symantec, and McAfee. Tests included protection against infections and lowest impact on performance.

Pricing

While there is a less robust option from Bitdefender for free, the most important pricing to include in our antivirus software comparison is their Plus program. Through the manufacturer, it is originally listed at $59.99 per year for one device.

It is currently shown as on sale for a $20 savings, bringing your total to $39.99. This is a great price for a comprehensive security system in an antivirus software comparison.

Image Source: Bitdefender

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F-Secure Antivirus Review

F-Secure is an ideal option for consumers who have an older or slower computer. It has a comprehensive security system that can be purchased in bulk to cover multiple devices at one time. The major benefits that should be mentioned in an antivirus software comparison are the lightweight and fast workings of their secure systems.

Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This as One of the Top Antivirus Softwares

Around for more than a quarter of a century, F-Secure has had plenty of success in blocking attacks from malware. They have grown to more than 1,000 employees operating 25 offices globally.

They offer professional and personal solutions, though our antivirus software list focuses more on the home usage of the best antivirus softwares. When you compare antivirus software for businesses, some reviews still put the F-Secure options close to the top of the list. One review from TechRadar.com considers them to be “better value commercial products” in addition to their options for home.

Program

F-Secure has a number of positive features that should be mentioned when you are trying to compare antivirus software from the various providers. For starters, TopTenReviews.com points out that it has a pre-installation process that installs before the main application. This allows your computer to be searched for prior infections before the rest of the program is finished installing.

The F-Secure SAFE top antivirus software offers the basic capabilities that most users have come to expect when they compare antivirus software:

• Protection from viruses, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware
• Family protection
• Browsing, banking, and network protection
• Finder functionality for lost devices

It is also a lighter system, making it great for slower computers according to some antivirus software reviews.

One of the negative features that should be mentioned in an antivirus software comparison is their propensity to deliver false positives. The review notes that this may not have much effect on you as a consumer.

Pricing

According to one antivirus software comparison from TechRadar.com, F-Secure is one of the pricier options on today’s market. We found it to be pretty similar to some of the other subscription-based services from the best antivirus softwares.

The downside to the F-Secure SAFE is that you must purchase it for a minimum of three devices. The bundle is quite a bargain when you compare antivirus software pricing at just $69.99 per year. This works out to be approximately $23.33 per device.

You may also try this antivirus software free for thirty days.

Kaspersky Antivirus Review

Kaspersky tends to be a favorite among consumers who are searching for the best antivirus softwares. When you compare antivirus software, you find that Kaspersky offers a comprehensive solution to keep your computer from harm at a reasonable rate.

While it does not offer a free download like some of the other mentions in our antivirus software comparison, it is still a great choice.

Key Factors That Led to Our Ranking of This as One of the Top Antivirus Softwares

The primary reason that consumers continue to find Kaspersky Lab in many antivirus software comparisons is their impressive system. It is acknowledged via independent testing and third-party companies as some of the best antivirus softwares on the market. Their list of awards includes:

• Best protection and usability for Kaspersky Endpoint Security
• Best protection, usability, and performance for Kaspersky Small Office Security
• Best performance and usability for Kaspersky Internet Security
• Best repair with cleaning tool for Kaspersky Virus Removal Tool

Program

The most basic option to include in our antivirus software comparison is their plain Antivirus option. It includes features that consumers find standard among the other choices for antivirus softwares:

• Protection from viruses, spyware, malware, and more
• Instant safety checks on files and websites
• Automatic Exploit Prevention
• Gamer mode for uninterrupted playtime
• Free and automatic updates and upgrades

Internet Security also offers more advanced features when it comes to safe browsing, banking and financial transactions, and dangerous banner advertisements. Make good use of a two-way firewall with the Internet Security option as well.

Pricing

The Antivirus program from Kaspersky is on the pricier side of things for consumers who are trying to compare antivirus software. For just one device, it costs $59.99 per year.

For those who want the added benefits on the internet with Internet Security, you will pay slightly less. At just $54.99, Internet Security is still a pricier option but it affords you security you could hardly get elsewhere for a lower cost.

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Conclusion—Top 6 Best Antivirus Softwares

When it comes to researching antivirus softwares, you don’t want to leave anything to chance. Your computer and mobile device is critical to your daily life, from answering emails for work to surfing the internet at your leisure. If you don’t think you can live without your devices, it is going to be imperative to take a good look at an antivirus software comparison.

On our antivirus software list, you will find comprehensive solutions that work for every device and budget.

The top antivirus software may depend heavily on your needs as a user. While some individuals may find the free versions sufficient for their needs, others will need the more comprehensive packages.

Which of these programs would you consider to be the best antivirus softwares for your needs? Weigh your personal or professional usage and then examine our antivirus software comparison to come up with your answer.