In a world where cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, protecting our digital identity is more important than ever. Whether personal documents, confidential business data or private photos – our devices store a lot of sensitive information that needs to be protected from hackers and malware. A good antivirus program is the first step towards greater security in everyday digital life. But with so many options available, the question arises: Which are the best antivirus programs that really offer the best protection? We’ll tell you.
Comparison of the best antivirus programs in 2025
Best antivirus programs: Avira Prime
Avira Prime is a comprehensive premium package designed to provide users with holistic protection and optimal performance for their devices. It combines real-time antivirus protection that detects and blocks malware and online threats with an unlimited VPN that anonymizes and encrypts traffic. In addition, it includes system optimization tools that increase the speed and efficiency of computers and mobile devices, as well as a password manager that creates and stores secure passwords.
An outstanding advantage of Avira Prime is its cross-platform compatibility, which makes it possible to protect up to 25 devices simultaneously – regardless of whether they are PCs, Macs, Android or iOS devices. The integration of various security and optimization tools in a single solution offers users a high level of convenience and ensures that all aspects of digital security are covered. Users also benefit from regular updates and comprehensive customer support.
A potential drawback of Avira Prime for some users could be the price, as premium features and multi-device protection come at a higher cost. For users who are only looking for basic protection for a single device, the extensive features of Avira Prime may seem oversized. Nevertheless, the package offers an attractive overall package for those who value comprehensive security and performance.
McAfee Total Protection
McAfee Total Protection is a comprehensive security solution designed to protect your data and privacy so you can enjoy your digital life with peace of mind. This package offers premium antivirus protection, secure browsing, identity monitoring and a secure VPN.
An outstanding feature of McAfee Total Protection is the ability to protect multiple devices at the same time. Depending on the subscription you choose, you can protect up to 10 devices, which is particularly beneficial for families or users with multiple devices. The software is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, so you are protected across all platforms.
The benefits of McAfee Total Protection include award-winning antivirus protection, a firewall to protect against hackers, a password manager to securely manage your passwords and a file shredder to completely delete sensitive files. A potential drawback for some users could be the price, especially if they only want to protect a single device. However, McAfee offers several subscription options, including a basic package for one device, so you can choose the protection that suits your needs.
Bitdefender Total Security
Bitdefender Total Security is a comprehensive security solution designed to protect devices across platforms. It offers advanced malware protection for Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, complemented by features such as a password manager and a standard VPN with 200 MB of traffic per day to secure your online privacy.
An outstanding feature of Bitdefender Total Security is the multi-layered ransomware defense that protects your documents, images and videos from known and new threats. In addition, the low system load ensures that the performance of your devices is not affected, so that you can work or play undisturbed.
A potential drawback for some users could be the limited data volume of the integrated VPN, which is rated at 200 MB per day. For more intensive use, an upgrade to an unlimited VPN would be required. Nevertheless, Bitdefender Total Security offers comprehensive protection with numerous functions that are more than sufficient for most users.
Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton 360 Deluxe is a comprehensive security solution designed to protect devices and online privacy. With this package, you get multiple layers of protection for up to 5 PCs, Macs, smartphones or tablets. It provides real-time threat protection against viruses, malware, spyware and ransomware, so you can surf the web, shop and bank safely.
A standout feature of Norton 360 Deluxe is the built-in Secure VPN, which encrypts your online activity to protect your privacy, especially when using public Wi-Fi networks. In addition, the package includes 50GB of cloud backup for PCs to protect important files from data loss. Parental controls allow parents to monitor and control their children’s online activities to protect them from inappropriate content.
A potential drawback for some users could be the price, especially if they want to protect fewer than five devices. However, Norton 360 Deluxe offers a variety of features bundled into a single subscription, which increases the overall value. For users who are looking for comprehensive protection for multiple devices and value data protection as well as additional features such as cloud backup and parental controls, Norton 360 Deluxe is an attractive solution.
Best free antivirus programs: Avast Free Antivirus
If you can do without some of the additional functions of the premium solutions, Avast Free Antivirus is a free solution that also does a good job of virus protection. The software is available for various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, thus enabling cross-platform protection.
A standout feature of Avast Free Antivirus is its combination of real-time threat detection and machine learning, which allows it to effectively identify and block both known and emerging threats. In addition, the software offers features such as a Wi-Fi inspector to secure your home network and a password manager to securely manage your credentials. The user interface is designed to be user-friendly so that even less tech-savvy users can operate the software with ease.
A potential drawback of Avast Free Antivirus for some users could be the limited features compared to the paid version. Advanced features such as a comprehensive VPN or advanced protection against ransomware are not included in the free version. Nevertheless, Avast Free Antivirus offers solid basic protection that should be sufficient for many users, especially those looking for a free yet effective security solution.
Windows Security / Defender: Is the free solution enough?
In today’s digital world, reliable virus protection is essential. Windows users benefit from the integrated Microsoft Defender Antivirus as standard. But is this protection enough, or should you rely on additional security software?
What does Microsoft Defender Antivirus offer?
Microsoft Defender is an antivirus program built into Windows that provides real-time protection against malware, spyware and other threats. It monitors downloads, detects anomalies and blocks potential threats before they can cause damage. It is also regularly updated to protect against new threats.
Is the protection sufficient?
According to the Netzwelt test report, Microsoft Defender offers solid protection and achieves a malware detection rate of 99%. The user-friendliness and integration into the operating system are particularly positively emphasized. However, there are weaknesses when it comes to protection against offline threats and ransomware. In addition, full system scans can be very time-consuming.
When is additional security software useful?
For most private users, the integrated protection of Microsoft Defender should be sufficient, especially if they have a secure surfing behavior and regularly perform system updates. However, the use of an additional antivirus solution may be advisable in certain cases:
- Extended protection needs: Companies or self-employed people with sensitive data could benefit from extended security functions that go beyond the standard scope of Defender.
- Additional functions: Some paid-for antivirus programs offer features such as VPNs, password managers or advanced firewalls that may be of interest to certain users.
- Protection for the whole family: If you have several users, especially children, in your household, you could benefit from functions such as parental controls or advanced network protection measures, which are included in some antivirus suites.
Conclusion
Microsoft Defender Antivirus offers solid and reliable basic protection for most Windows users. Nevertheless, everyone should individually consider whether additional security functions or extended protection are required for their own needs. However, conscious surfing behavior and regular system updates remain the most important measures to protect yourself from digital threats.
A comparison of antivirus programs: what you should look out for when buying
n a time when cybercrime is on the rise, protecting our digital devices is one of the most important security precautions. Antivirus programs are indispensable tools to protect against malware, ransomware and other threats. But with so many programs on the market, choosing the right software can be a challenge. In this article, you’ll find out what you should look out for to find the right antivirus program for your needs.
1. security features: What should a good antivirus program offer?
A powerful antivirus program not only detects and removes viruses, but also offers comprehensive protection against various threats. Make sure that the software covers the following functions:
- Real-time protection: scans that detect and block threats before they cause damage.
- Ransomware protection: Ensuring that your data is not encrypted and held for ransom.
- Firewall: An extra layer of protection that prevents unauthorized access to your network
- Phishing protection: Detection of fraudulent emails and websites targeting your sensitive data.
- Updates and patches: Regular updates to ward off new threats.
2. user-friendliness: How intuitive is the program?
A good antivirus program should be easy to use, even for people with no prior technical knowledge. Clear menus, well-organized dashboards and easy installation are crucial. In addition, the software should offer automated processes such as scheduled scans and automatic updates to take the work off your hands.
3. performance: How much does the program affect your system?
An antivirus program must not slow down your device. Make sure that the software uses resources sparingly and runs in the background without noticeably affecting the performance of your computer or smartphone. Many providers offer free trial versions – a good opportunity to check performance before you buy.
4. costs: free or paid?
Free antivirus programs can offer solid basic protection, but usually lack important additional functions such as comprehensive ransomware protection or advanced firewalls. Paid programs often offer better all-round protection and additional features such as password managers or VPN services.
When making your choice, consider your budget, but also how much the protection of your data is worth to you.
5. customer support: help when you need it
Good customer support is particularly important if something doesn’t work as expected. Find out whether the provider offers support by email, chat or telephone and whether it is available around the clock.
6. additional functions: More than just virus protection
Many modern antivirus programs offer extras that go beyond classic protection, for example:
- Parental controls: control and protection for children’s online activities.
- VPN: Secure and anonymous surfing on the Internet.
- Password manager: Management of strong passwords in a central location.
- Backup functions: Automatic backup of your important data.
Conclusion: Your security, your decision
Choosing the right antivirus program depends on your individual requirements and your budget. Whether you opt for a free program or a premium solution, the important thing is that you actively protect your digital life. Compare different providers, read reviews and use trial versions to find the best software for your needs. In an increasingly digitalized world, strong virus protection is an indispensable companion.
