The Best Free Antivirus in 2025

In this digital age, where cyberattacks are only getting larger and more sophisticated, using a reliable antivirus solution is essential. But if you’re unsure if you’re ready to commit to a premium solution, the next best option is free antivirus software.

The free solution will help detect and remove harmful threats and provide real-time protection without straining your budget. Choosing the right free antivirus lets you enjoy peace of mind knowing your devices are secure. Therefore, I tested free antiviruses in terms of security, ease of use, and performance to present you with the best solutions today.

Best Free Internet Security Tools Reviewed

Based on our comprehensive testing methodology, I’ve evaluated a wide range of free antivirus solutions to find the best antimalware software across a range of different use cases.

I’ve assessed their safety features, scanning capabilities, and system resource impact, among other details, while comparing them to the best antivirus software on the market.

1. TotalAV – Best Free Antivirus Overall

Why We Picked It

TotalAV is the best free antivirus on the market today. It offers excellent system optimization tools alongside impressive scanning features.

TotalAV’s free version includes advanced features like duplicate file removal and browser cleanups, which I found particularly valuable, while competitors only provide basic cleanup tools.

Free Features

• Malware Scanning – TotalAV’s free scanner thoroughly examines your system and can detect and block malware attacks, including Trojans, spyware, ransomware, and adware. I particularly appreciated that the free version allows you to schedule scans and customize scanning preferences, and the features are presented in a user-friendly dashboard that’s easy to navigate.
• System Optimization – The system optimization suite has features often reserved for paid plans with other antivirus software. It can remove junk and duplicate files and helps manage your browser cache. The tools worked quickly and easily in my testing, enabling me to noticeably boost my system’s performance.
• WebShield – The WebShield feature actively monitors for compromised passwords and provides alerts about data breaches affecting your accounts. It also includes a basic web filter that blocks malicious websites.

Lab Tests

TotalAV achieved 100% for malware detection and removal in AV-Test’s latest trials. Usability was also excellent, with a 6/6 score and no false positives against more than a million samples. TotalAV’s performance metrics were solid, too, aside from a moderate slowdown during app installation.

Pricing

TotalAV’s free plan provides protection for one Windows device, with malware scanning, performance optimization, and basic web protection.

Premium plans start at $19/year and add iOS and Android support, multi-device support, and additional system optimization and malware removal tools. Higher-tier plans add a VPN, an ad blocker, and a password manager. All plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It’s Best For

TotalAV’s free version is perfect for users who want to keep their system secure and boost its performance without dealing with complex settings or configurations. There are also very affordable premium plans if you want to upgrade.

For more information, check out our TotalAV antivirus review.

 

2. Bitdefender – Best Free Antivirus for Beginners

Why We Picked It

Bitdefender is the most beginner-friendly free antivirus solution I’ve tested. It has an intuitive interface with a streamlined design, unlike feature-heavy competitors, and requires minimal user intervention. Unusually, it also includes live customer support.

Free Features

• Malware Scanning – The Bitdefender antivirus free plan stands out for its effective malware detection and removal and its minimal system impact during quick scans. I found the full system scan does use slightly more resources, though, and will take some time during an initial run. It also includes malware scanning and cloud protection on Android, and many rate Bitdefender as the best free antivirus for Android Mobile.
• Real-Time Protection – Impressively, the antivirus free app includes real-time protection and online threat prevention, meaning that it can catch previously unseen viruses, unlike most other free solutions.
• Live Customer Support – Most providers reserve live support for paying customers, but Bitdefender makes the service available with the free plan, so you can reach out for help if you run into any issues. That makes this a great product for beginners.

Lab Tests

In recent AV-Test trials, Bitdefender successfully handled 100% of malware, including web and email threats, and it received the highest Advanced+ rating on AV Comparatives, which is a testament to its all-around performance.

It also got a 6/6 score for Performance, with no significant system impact during browsing, downloading, and app installation. However, Bitdefender was slightly noisier than some competitors, issuing one false warning against a set of over 1 million samples.

Pricing

Bitdefender free plan is an impressive package, but you don’t get device optimization, a firewall, a VPN, or tracker blocking. Bitdefender’s Antivirus Plus plan costs $23.99/year for a single device and $34.99/year for three devices, and it includes ransomware, adware, and spyware protection.

The Bitdefender Internet Security ($39.99/year) and Total Security ($49.99/year) plans offer advanced security tools, such as a firewall, parental controls, and device optimization. An important point to note is that you need to upgrade to Total Security for macOS, Android, and iOS support.

Who It’s Best For

Bitdefender is a great pick for beginners seeking a simple, lightweight antivirus solution. It’s easy to set up, simple to get started, and includes all the support you need if you have any issues. If you want to upgrade, there’s a free trial and a very affordable starting price.

To find out more, check out our BitDefender antivirus review.

 

3. Norton – Best Antivirus Free Trial For Malware Removal

Why We Picked It

Norton offers one of the best free antivirus trials, allowing you to test out the provider’s malware removal capabilities. The 30-day trial period and 60-day money-back guarantee period give you all the time you need to try out Norton’s tools.

Free Features

• Advanced Malware Scanning – While the Bitdefender free plan offers basic malware scanning, Norton’s trial provides unrestricted access to its threat detection and removal tools, which can make a big difference when dealing with sophisticated malware.
• Real-Time Protection – Norton offers multi-layered, real-time protection with behavioral analysis, enabling it to catch threats that other antiviruses might miss. It’s also lightweight and operates silently, without interrupting your regular device use.
• Free Tools – Norton offers a number of free security tools. These include the Norton Power Eraser, which can detect and remove Potentially Unwanted Programs, and the Norton Password Manager, helping you protect and secure your passwords.

Lab Tests

Norton dealt with 100% of malware threats in real-time and during system scans in recent independent testing and scored an overall perfect 18/18 score. The firm has a consistent history of getting full marks for protection under independent testing across Windows, macOS, and Android.

Performance was on par with industry standards, though you might notice slightly slower installation of frequently-used apps on lower-end PCs. Norton got full marks for usability, as well, so you’ll have minimal interruptions.

Pricing

Norton’s free trial lasts 30 days and provides full access to the provider’s features, giving you a taste of what’s available.

Norton’s entry-level AntiVirus Plus plan will protect one PC or smartphone for just $29.99/year, and it comes with an impressive 60-day money-back guarantee. You also get 2GB of encrypted backups and the Norton Virus Protection Promise, guaranteeing a refund if Norton and its expert staff can’t remove a virus from your system.

Based on my testing, the Norton 360 Deluxe plan ($49.99/year) offers the best value for money, protecting five devices and adding features like a VPN, dark web monitoring, parental controls, and 50GB of cloud backups.

Who It’s Best For

Norton’s trial offer is ideal for users who need advanced features and in-depth malware protection. It’s also a great option for the long term for users interested in upgrading to paid plans.

Check out our McAfee vs Norton guide for a detailed comparison of the two products.

 

4. McAfee – Best Antivirus for Free Security Tools

Why We Picked It

McAfee is a great free antivirus solution for Windows computers, thanks to its free trial, which includes a wide range of additional online security tools.

Free Features

• Real-Time Protection – McAfee’s 30-day trial offers unrestricted access to McAfee’s real-time protection tools and anti-ransomware features, allowing you to thoroughly scan your system for viruses and block incoming threats.
• Web Protection and Firewall – McAfee’s web protection suite actively blocks malicious sites, cryptocurrency miners, and phishing attacks. You can also make use of McAfee’s firewall, which automatically adjusts its settings based on your network type and offers enhanced protection on public networks without manual configuration.
• Additional Security Features – The antivirus also includes dark web monitoring – alerting you if your details have appeared in a breach so you can take action – and unlimited VPN functionality, which I found delivers consistent performance. I particularly liked the McAfee Protection Score, which gives you an overall rating on your security as well as actionable tips on improving your protection.

Lab Tests

McAfee’s 18/18 AV-Test score reflects its effectiveness against viruses and its minimal system impact. The antivirus is equally capable of dealing with zero-day and widespread malware, hitting a 100% prevention and removal rate for both categories.

Its performance metrics also beat industry averages, especially during tasks like web browsing and software installation. McAfee got 6/6 marks for usability, too, but wrongly flagged one legitimate application as being potentially malicious.

Pricing

McAfee’s free trial provides complete access to the provider’s security features for 30 days without requiring payment information. The Essential plan ($39.99/year) is a great upgrade option, though, covering five devices and including antivirus protection and the VPN service.

McAfee’s Premium plan ($49.99/year) offers the best value possible, with identity monitoring features, an unlimited VPN, and, most importantly, cover for unlimited devices.

Who It’s Best For

McAfee is a great pick for users who want to take advantage of advanced features for multi-layered digital security before committing to a purchase – and it offers huge potential if you choose to upgrade to a long-term plan.

Find out more in our McAfee antivirus review.

 

5. Avast – Best Antivirus with a Free Plan with VPN

Why We Picked It

Avast is the best antivirus with a permanently free plan. It offers robust real-time protection, along with a range of other features for free, putting it ahead of providers like Norton and McAfee, which only offer time-limited trials.

Free Features

• Real-Time Monitoring – Avast’s free version delivers protection against malware, ransomware, and emerging threats, while its behavior shield monitors app activity in real time, immediately quarantining suspicious programs.
• Network Security – The free plan includes an advanced firewall and Wi-Fi network scanner. In my tests, these tools successfully identified vulnerable network settings and blocked suspicious connection attempts.
• VPN and Additional Security Features – Avast’s free version includes optimization tools – to help maintain system performance by removing junk files and managing startup programs – and, notably, a VPN with a 5GB/week cap, which I found sufficient for secure browsing.

Lab Tests

In independent testing, Avast scored an outstanding 18/18. Avast’s free version got full marks for protection, blocking 100% of both zero-day and common malware.

It did so without a significant strain on system resources, and the antivirus incorrectly flagged only one piece of legitimate software from a pool of 990,000+ samples. Avast counted a small number of false positives in AV-Comparatives’ assessment, though this was better than the results for Norton and McAfee.

Pricing

The Avast free plan provides real-time protection and a firewall with no payment or registration required. To get started with the free plan, you just need to hit the “antivirus free download” button.

For enhanced protection, the cheapest option is Avast One at $35.88/year, but this doesn’t include any privacy or optimization features.

The Ultimate plan ($49.99/year for one device, $69.99/year for ten devices) provides far better value and includes an unlimited VPN, real-time protection, system optimization tools, and identity protection features.

Who It’s Best For

Avast is a good pick for budget-conscious users who want antivirus protection with a basic VPN. The straightforward interface also makes it a good option for beginners. It’s a great solution and will appear on any top 10 free antivirus list.

For more information, read out Avast antivirus review.

 

6. Trend Micro – Best Free Antivirus For System Optimization

Why We Picked It

Trend Micro is the best free antivirus for system optimization. Its modular approach allows users to pick exactly what they need without installing unnecessary components.

Free Features

• Antivirus Scans – Trend Micro’s HouseCall virus scanner performs Windows system scans and can detect and remove viruses, Trojans, and spyware. The Antivirus One utility, meanwhile, can scan Macs for viruses, ransomware, and spyware and block web threats. There are also anti-phishing tools that can block malicious URLs to protect against credential theft.
• System Optimization – The Cleaner One Pro tool can effectively identify and remove junk files, help manage startup programs, and optimize browser performance. I was able to recover a significant amount of storage space and improve boot times using the tool.
• Additional Security Features – Other free tools offered by Trend Micro include a password manager for iOS and Android, a VPN for iOS and Mac, and a Mac ad blocker. It adds up to being an impressive range of free utilities. A downside, of course, is that the tools are split between various different apps rather than being accessible from a single dashboard.

Lab Tests

In independent testing, Trend Micro scored 18/18, underlining the overall reliability of the platform and the quality of its services. Trend Micro’s free version fared well for protection in AV-Test trials, eliminating 100% of malware samples, including those from email and malicious sites.

The software issued no false warnings against 990,000 application and website samples. The antivirus is also surprisingly lightweight and didn’t significantly slow down either standard or high-end PCs.

Pricing

Trend Micro lacks a traditional free tier but offers a 30-day trial, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a range of free utilities.

The entry-level Antivirus+ Security plan costs $19.95/year and provides real-time protection, a centralized interface, automated phishing protection, and web filtering. Maximum Security ($49.95/year) delivers better value, though, by adding dark web monitoring, parental controls, and password management.

Who It’s Best For

Trend Micro provides an impressive range of free resources for users to help secure their systems.

It’s especially valuable for users with older devices or limited system resources with its free system-optimization capabilities and the fact that you only need to download the specific tools you want. For many, this will make it the best antivirus free for Windows 10.

For more information, read out Trend Micro antivirus review.

 

7. Intego – Best Free Antivirus for Mac

Why We Picked It

Intego is the best free antivirus for Mac, with free tools and a free trial of the premium product that has been built specifically for the Apple ecosystem.

Free Features

• VirusBarrier Scanner – Intego’s free scanner detects and removes macOS-specific malware, quarantining and removing potential threats. It can be set to automatically run daily scans, and the external drive scanning feature means you can extend protection to connected iOS devices. It doesn’t include real-time scanning, however.
• Email Protection – The VirusBarrier Scanner includes an email security component that can scan messages and attachments for threats, helping protect you from phishing attacks.
• Free Mac Security Features – Getting a free trial will give you access to the full Intego feature set, including an advanced two-way Mac Firewall, parental controls, system optimization tools, personal backups, and a VPN. It’s a great package for macOS protection.

Lab Tests

Although designed for Macs, Intego performed well for Windows devices in recent AV-Test assessments. The difference, however, was marginal, as the AV detected and removed 99.2% of macOS malware.

That said, performance can occasionally be an issue. Intego was light on resources when downloading and launching apps but showed above-average slowdowns during software installation.

Pricing

The free scanner offers valuable macOS protection. The Mac Internet Security X9 package ($37.50/year with a two-year subscription) significantly expands on this by adding real-time scanning and a macOS firewall, and you can test it with a 30-day free trial.

The Mac Premium Bundle X9 ($69.99/year), on the other hand, delivers the most value for users, enhancing the Mac-specific security suite with advanced backup options, parental controls, and a complete system optimization package designed for macOS. There’s also a VPN add-on available. The plans all have a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It’s Best For

Intego is a good pick for Mac users looking for specialized protection that goes beyond Apple’s built-in tools. Signing up for a free trial is a great way to test out Intego’s Mac-specific security features.

Find out more in our Intego antivirus review.

 

8. ESET – Best Free Antivirus Protection for Technical Users

Why We Picked It

ESET is the best free antivirus for IT professionals, with comprehensive diagnostic tools and customizable security settings. The provider gets great scores in independent testing and delivers far more detailed technical information than other solutions.

Free Features

• Free Scanner – ESET’s free online scanner can scan for viruses, Trojans, and spyware. You can scan manually or schedule scans – but the package doesn’t offer real-time protection. This is a reasonable start, but you can unlock a lot more features with ESET’s 30-day trials.
• Scan Customization – The NOD32 plan includes real-time protection and anti-phishing features, and technical users will particularly appreciate the platform’s customization options for malware scans. In addition, the scanning system generates detailed technical logs, providing in-depth insights into malware scan results.
• Firewall and Anti-Theft Tools – The Essential plan comes with a firewall and safe banking features, which significantly enhance your security posture. I also liked the anti-theft features, which enable you to track, locate, and lock lost and stolen devices – which can prove to be invaluable.

Lab Tests

ESET’s perfect 18/18 score in independent testing provides peace of mind that it’ll consistently block any malware threats you face.

It got full marks for protection, and performance was similarly good but with a small caveat. The antivirus ran well on lower-end PCs but showed a small reduction in browsing speed on high-end machines.

Pricing

The free ESET Online Scanner is a good starting point for malware protection, but a free trial offers far more and enables you to test out ESET’s full feature set.

The entry-level NOD32 Antivirus plan ($39.99/year) adds permanent access to real-time protection and anti-phishing features, but the Essential plan ($49.99/year) goes a step further with a firewall, web protection tools, and anti-theft features. All plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Who It’s Best For

ESET is perfect for IT pros who want detailed system analysis tools with customizable security configurations so they can fine-tune their security. ESET is also among the best server antivirus products we’ve tested.

Find out more in our ESET antivirus review.

 

9. AVG – Best Free Antivirus for Phishing Protection

Why We Picked It

AVG Free Antivirus offers a range of free security tools for your device and includes robust phishing protection and real-time protection for your device. It’s often named the best free antivirus by Reddit and is a great option for email security.

Free Features

• Phishing Protection – The AVG Antivirus free plan boasts an anti-phishing tool and email protection, blocking malicious links, malware downloads, and dangerous attachments. There’s also a basic firewall to stop unauthorized traffic and system optimization tools to remove junk files and apps and fix settings slowing down your device.
• Real-Time Protection – The free plan also includes real-time monitoring. The app’s virus definitions are continuously updated, and it can also detect previously unknown threats. One slight downside is that full scans can be time-consuming.
• Private Browser – AVG’s free private browser enables you to access the internet safely and securely. It automatically blocks ads, cookies, dangerous sites, and browser fingerprinting and includes a built-in VPN.

Lab Tests

AVG aced AV-Test’s recent evaluations, getting full marks for protection and performance. The software scored a 100% malware removal rate and didn’t issue any false positives for legitimate websites and applications.

Performance was also solid, with AVG only having a noticeable impact during web browsing on lower-end PCs. Like Avast, AVG detected several false positives in AV-Comparatives’ testing, though this was better than the results of many other providers.

Pricing

Upgrading to AVG Internet Security’s paid starter plan ($46.68/year for one device or $59.88/year for ten) provides improved defenses, including webcam protection, malicious website alerts, and support for up to ten devices.

For the same price, you can get a better deal with the Ultimate plan, which includes a VPN and privacy and system optimization tools. Both plans offer a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 30-day free trial.

Who It’s Best For

AVG is a great free antivirus app for individuals who need real-time protection and online security and are particularly concerned about email protection. It’s also the best free antivirus app, according to Reddit.

See our Avast vs AVG guide for a deeper analysis of the product’s place in the market.

 

Comparing the Best Antivirus Free Solutions

Here’s a comparison table covering the best free antivirus services I’ve discussed in my guide so you can make a free antivirus comparison for your needs.

Methodology

How We Review And Test Antivirus Software

15 Antiviruses Tested

20 Datapoints Measured

300+ Hours Testing

500+ User Reviews Read

We base our recommendations on first-hand experience and in-depth testing. All the Antivirus products we suggest, have been tested based on the following criteria:

• Core Security Features: We make sure that the antivirus software is fully equipped with features like real-time protection, scanning, a firewall, web protection, and more.
• Malware Detection Rates: We test malware detection rates ourselves by running both in-depth and quick scans on our devices. Additionally, we check independent lab tests.
• Compatibility: We check which devices and operating systems the antivirus software is compatible with. Often, different-looking dashboards and slightly different packages of features may be available.
• Performance Impact: A reliable and functional antivirus should not slow down your device significantly. So, we examine our device performance with and without the antivirus running.
• Customer Experience: Alongside our own experience, we are curious to know what real users have to say regarding the services. So, we’ve scoured the web for feedback on each of our tested antiviruses.
• Value for Money: We always consider value for money and how much each product is offering for the set price point.

Are Free Antivirus Software Solutions Enough?

Using a free antivirus program is better than having no antivirus at all, as it will provide essential protection against malware and online threats and allow you to remove harmful software from your device.

However, it’s not an ideal solution and will often present severe limitations like:

• No multi-device support – Most free antivirus services only protect a single device and have limited cross-platform functionality.
• Lack of advanced features – Free antiviruses lack the advanced features provided with their paid plans, such as enhanced firewalls, real-time scanning, secure online banking, and anti-theft protection. Free plans may leave you exposed to ransomware attacks, for example – a major issue given that there are hundreds of millions of ransomware attack attempts every year.
• Limited customer support – Since free antivirus solutions offer minimal customer support, it can be challenging to get help when encountering technical issues.
• Pop-up ads – Free antiviruses often display annoying ads and notifications, and frequent upsell messages can hamper the user experience.

In short, while free plans are a good starting point, it’s advisable to invest in a reliable third-party antivirus solution to ensure you have comprehensive defenses against threats.

Do Built-In Virus Protection Tools Work?

However, third-party antiviruses use multiple scanning engines and AI systems to identify and neutralize threats that built-in tools might miss.

They also incorporate advanced security features such as password managers, parental controls, and unlimited VPN access, as well as cross-platform protection.

By using third-party antiviruses, your device benefits from comprehensive, multi-layered security, ensuring protection from emerging threats.

Free Antivirus vs Paid Antivirus

The best free anti-virus software is a good way to achieve enhanced cybersecurity before upgrading to paid antivirus subscriptions. Here are some pros and cons of free antivirus software:

What Features Do Free Antivirus Programs Provide?

A free antivirus program will generally provide:

• On-demand malware scans – These may include quick or in-depth computer scans to detect and quarantine malware and viruses.
• Basic web protection – The free antivirus app will alert you when you click on or attempt to visit malicious sites or click on suspicious links.
• System optimization – Free antivirus solutions may offer system optimization tools that clean up junk or duplicate files.

Even the best free antivirus for PC will generally lack these features:

• Multiple-device support – Free antivirus programs generally only support a single device.
• Real-time monitoring – Although they have manual on-demand scans, there will typically be no real-time monitoring to protect your computer 24/7.
• In-depth online security – Free antivirus software may not safeguard your device against all types of threats.
• Firewall – A firewall is an essential component for multi-layered security but often isn’t available with free versions of AV software.
• Additional tools – Free antivirus solutions will rarely have additional cybersecurity tools like a VPN, a password manager, identity protection, or credit monitoring.

How to Choose the Best Free Antivirus For You

When evaluating the top free antivirus for your needs, whether you’re looking at TotalAV, the Avira free antivirus, the Malwarebytes free plan, or Microsoft Defender Antivirus, consider these factors:

Best Free Antivirus Solutions for Different Device Types

Antivirus operators provide varying levels of support for different devices, so the best free antimalware software for you will depend on your device. Here’s a free antivirus comparison by device:

Conclusion – What’s the Best Free Antivirus?

Antivirus solutions have come a long way in the last decade, and you don’t need to break the bank for high-quality protection. Free security software can now give you most of what you need for everyday use, from real-time monitoring to malware detection and removal.

Based on my experience of testing the top products on the market, I rank TotalAV as the best free antivirus you can find.

The service’s free tools are a cut above the competition in terms of malware removal, performance, and usability. If you choose to upgrade, TotalAV also provides one of the cheapest plans around.

Its real-time browsing protection is excellent and provides comprehensive protection. System scans are highly efficient, and with built-in optimization tools, you get an antivirus that will keep your machine both fast and clean.

FAQs