Top Antivirus Programs of 2018 for Your Computer Security

Leading Antivirus Solutions in 2018

No matter your computer usage—whether browsing social media or working—having reliable antivirus protection is essential. This overview highlights the top antivirus software of 2018, chosen based on independent lab tests focusing on malware defense, anti-ransomware, firewalls, and multilayered security features. Curious about the best options? Here are the leading antivirus programs of the year.

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
Featuring a user-friendly interface, VPN, enhanced ransomware shields, and network scans, Bitdefender offers excellent test results. It includes multiple layers of ransomware defense, banking protections, and a password manager. A separate subscription is required for unlimited VPN access.

Kaspersky Anti-Virus
Well-known on various lists, Kaspersky delivers strong malware and malicious URL blocking, coupled with multiple scan options and 24/7 support via chat and phone. However, it scores lower on anti-phishing tests, but remains a preferred choice for many users.

Norton AntiVirus Basic
As a household name, Norton excels in malware and exploit protection and malicious URL blocking. It also offers a password manager and spam filters but has limited technical support options.

Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus
This lightweight, fast antispyware is resource-friendly and excels at blocking fraudulent URLs and ransomware. Its rapid system scanning is notable, but lab test results are not available.

McAfee AntiVirus Plus
A popular cross-platform choice, McAfee provides protection across multiple devices, including features such as a file shredder, firewall, and unlimited protection for iOS, macOS, Android, and Windows. Its malware blocking scores are solid, although some tests show inconsistent results.

Avast Pro Antivirus
Offering excellent malware and anti-phishing scores, Avast includes a password manager, Wi-Fi inspector, DNS hijacking protection, and network security scanning. Some additional features require separate purchases.

Check Point ZoneAlarm PRO Antivirus + Firewall
This program, licensed by Kaspersky, combines robust firewall capabilities with a unique anti-phishing approach. Limitations include limited phishing protection outside Chrome and potentially complex features for novices.

Emsisoft Anti-Malware
The software scores well in independent testing, especially in malware and URL blocking. Its signature-based detection effectively neutralizes ransomware, and the interface is simple. However, it may flag legitimate programs as threats and has weaker anti-phishing performance.

ESET NOD32 Antivirus
ESET offers a Host Intrusion Prevention System, quick full scans, and a UEFI malware scanner. It performs well in lab tests, but its phishing protection and user interface can be challenging for beginners.

Sophos Home Premium
Protection extends to malicious URLs, phishing, ransomware, and keyloggers. It’s affordable, supports remote management of up to 10 devices, but has limited webcam and parental controls, and requires tech knowledge for advanced features.

The Kure
This innovative tool restores PCs to a malware-free state after reboot and protects personal data. It’s particularly effective for ransomware recovery with good live-chat support, but malware can act up until the system is restarted.