What is Antivirus Software?

Antivirus Software is designed to detect, block, and remove malicious software on a computer or network. It is an advised layer of any cybersecurity system. Also, it is often the first line of defence to protect the computer before the malicious software burrows too deep. It protects a computer or network and helps prevent the virus or other malicious code from spreading to other devices.

How much does Antivirus Software cost?

While there are free options, you get better protection and more features with a paid subscription. Paid versions offer features such as VPN, password management, and parental controls. Prices range from $20 to over $100 a year, depending on the number of licences, number of devices you want to be covered, and the features you prefer.

Is It Worth Paying for Antivirus Software?

Free AV software has improved greatly over the years, and again, anyone using Windows 10 already has free AV software that works pretty well. If all you want is software that detects a malicious software, blocks it from doing damage, and scans your system, then free is good.

Paid versions, however, will offer protections on web browsing, protect identity, or offer VPN services, as well as password managers and parental control across multiple devices and operating systems. These are more essential now, as more people are working remotely or using a single device for work and personal computing.

The best Antivirus Software of 2022:

We investigated 30 options recommended by cybersecurity experts as their software of choice and considered the software’s antivirus, malware, and ransomware. We also considered features such as multiple device protections and free version offerings. Here are our top picks.

  • McAfee: Best for multiple devices
  • Bitdefender: Excellent virus protection
  • Kaspersky: Comprehensive antivirus solution
  • Panda: Best overall 
  • Norton 360 with LifeLock: Best for Windows

McAfee: Best for multiple devices

McAfee is the best Antivirus software of 2022. It provides a highly accurate security solution for computer and mobile devices

Some of its benefits are:

  1. Protects an unlimited number of devices
  2. Allows you to fix security issues remotely
  3. Prevents scam attempts in their tracks

Pricing: 

McAfee costs you only Rs. 1,999.00 for a family pack. It can protect up to 10 devices. 

Bitdefender: Excellent virus protection

This provides you with excellent virus protection with an extensive list of great features and has minimal impact on system performance. Besides this other benefits are given below:

  • Highly rated virus detection capabilities
  • Chat safely in popular social networks
  • Extend battery life on laptops and tablets

Pricing:

Bitfinder costs you only Rs.1,080.00 for Antivirus Plus. 

Kaspersky: Comprehensive antivirus solution

This provides you with a comprehensive antivirus solution that covers all your security needs. Apart from this other benefits are:

  • Protects children from harmful content
  • Cleans and optimise your computer
  • Features a robust scanning and detection system

Pricing: 

Kaspersky costs you only $11.99/year. It is essential antivirus protection for Windows PCs.

Panda: Best overall 

Its powerful security protects you from numerous forms of online and offline danger. Besides others benefits of this software are given below:

  • Prevents virus infection from USB drives
  • Provides strong encryption for your private files
  • Cleans and optimises your computer

Pricing:

Panda antivirus costs you only 3,839.60 INR for a premium pack.

Norton 360 with LifeLock: Best for Windows

Norton 360 with LifeLock keeps improving on its history as a top antivirus option with its PC maintenance features, making it the best for Windows computers. Apart from this, you will get another benefit are given below:

  • Excellent malware protection
  • Lifelock identity theft protection 
  • PC protection with firewall and backups

Pricing: 

Norton 360 with LifeLock is costing you $149.99 per year with licences for up to 5 devices. 

We hope this article must be helpful in your selection of the best Antivirus Software for 2022.