There are numerous antivirus software available but only a few handful of them have the speed, strength and other features you require to protect your computer. The best antivirus software uses a multilayered approach to detect and eliminate threats, such as signature detection, heuristics-based identification, behavior monitoring, sandboxing and artificial intelligence. This is especially important for sophisticated threats like ransomware, which can be difficult to detect using one method.

Our top choices combine outstanding malware detection rates with an array of additional features, including password management, VPN, cloud backup and dark web monitoring. They offer a range of subscription options that can be tailored to your budget and requirements.

Malwarebytes antivirus scanner is extremely quick and lightweight on system resources, yet it offers outstanding protection against all kinds of malware. Other additional features include password management as well as the ability to use a VPN and storage optimization tools. It’s available for Windows, Mac and Android.

Bitdefender’s antivirus tool earned top marks from independent labs such as AV-Test and AV Comparatives in 2022. It’s easy to use and comes with a number of extras, such as banking protection to ensure secure online shopping as well as parental controls to protect your children. It also comes with the ability to locate and remotely wipe or lock a lost or stolen mobile device.

Norton’s security suite is largely unchanged from our check this last review. It’s still a decent option, with a high level of malware detection. The additional features make up for its expensive price. Its ads-blocker, password manager and antispam all function well and offer the best value for money by offering a five-device plan.