10 Best Antivirus Software in 2025

Ronan Short
May 15, 2025

Looking for the best antivirus software in 2025? With online threats on the rise, finding the right protection for your devices is more important than ever. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the 10 Best Antivirus Software in 2025, highlighting the key features and pros.

Whether you want all-round security, lightweight performance, or budget-friendly options, there’s something here for you.

1. Norton 360 – Best Antivirus for All-Around Protection

If you're after reliable, well-rounded security that works across all your devices, Norton 360 is a top pick. It offers powerful protection for Windows, Android, and iOS, plus great extras like a VPN, cloud backup, and identity protection.

Why We Like Norton 360

  • Excellent malware detection powered by AI and machine learning
  • Unlimited VPN with no data limits
  • Parental controls and ID protection – great for families
  • 500 GB cloud storage for secure file backups
  • Compatible with all devices – phones, tablets, PCs, and more

Drawbacks:

  • No free version – premium protection comes at a price
  • Limited features on iOS apps

Key Features:

  • Real-time malware protection
  • Smart firewall & phishing protection
  • Private browser & password manager
  • Dark web monitoring & ransomware defence

2. Bitdefender Total Security – Best for Lightweight Protection

Need strong protection that won’t slow you down? Bitdefender Total Security offers excellent malware detection with a lightweight, cloud-based system that runs quietly in the background.

Why We Like Bitdefender

  • Fantastic malware detection
  • Minimal system impact
  • Secure online payments with Safepay browser
  • Webcam & mic protection for extra privacy

Drawbacks:

  • VPN has a 200 MB daily data limit
  • Limited features for Mac and iOS users

Key Features:

  • Cloud-based scanning
  • Web protection & vulnerability scanner
  • Password manager & parental controls
  • Scam Copilot & Safepay browser

3. TotalAV – Best for Ease of Use

Looking for a simple, beginner-friendly antivirus? TotalAV makes security easy, with real-time protection, optimisation tools, and a no-fuss interface.

Why We Like TotalAV

  • Real-time malware protection
  • System optimisation to clean up and speed up your device
  • Fast VPN with unlimited data
  • Built-in password manager

Drawbacks:

  • No built-in firewall
  • Occasional upselling of extra features

Key Features:

  • Real-time antivirus
  • WebShield & Total Browser
  • Unlimited VPN
  • System cleaner & password manager

4. McAfee – Best for Online Security & Families

McAfee is perfect for families needing full-featured protection. It covers unlimited devices and includes advanced parental controls, VPN, and ID theft protection.

Why We Like McAfee

  • 100% malware detection
  • Customisable scan options
  • Parental controls with real-time location tracking
  • Covers unlimited devices

Drawbacks:

  • May slow your system during scans
  • Firewall is basic compared to others

Key Features:

  • Real-time protection & anti-phishing
  • Family tools & device tracking
  • Built-in VPN for mobile
  • Personal data cleanup

5. Intego – Best for Mac Protection

If you’re a Mac user, Intego is built just for you. It’s designed specifically for macOS and offers strong real-time protection with tools to boost performance and secure your network.

Why We Like Intego

  • Made for Mac – not a Windows port
  • Excellent real-time detection
  • Backup and network tools for data security
  • Customisable firewall

Drawbacks:

  • Only available for Mac
  • Multiple apps instead of an all-in-one suite

Key Features:

  • Smart backups & real-time scanning
  • Custom firewall
  • Parental controls & Mac cleanup

6. Panda Dome – Best for Flexible Pricing

Panda Dome gives you solid antivirus tools with flexible pricing tiers. It’s easy to use and features handy tools like USB scanning and ransomware protection.

Why We Like Panda Dome:

  • External device scanning
  • Rescue Kit for emergency virus removal
  • Ransomware protection

Drawbacks:

  • VPN capped at 150 MB/day (except Premium)
  • Web protection could be stronger

Key Features:

  • Web protection
  • Rescue Kit
  • Dark web monitoring 

7. Kaspersky Premium – Best for Online Shopping & Banking

Kaspersky Premium is a great choice for safe online shopping and banking. It includes powerful security features and a secure browser for transactions.

Why We Like Kaspersky

  • Great anti-phishing protection
  • Safe Money browser for secure transactions
  • Unlimited VPN

Drawbacks:

  • Not available in the US
  • Some data tracking for partner sites

Key Features:

  • Parental controls 
  • Webcam protection
  • Unlimited VPN
  • Password manager 
  • Smart Home Monitor

8. Avira Prime – Best for System Optimisation

Avira Prime blends antivirus protection with strong optimisation tools. It’s ideal for users who want their systems to stay secure and run smoothly.

Why We Like Avira

  • 100% malware detection in tests
  • System optimisation & junk cleanup
  • Game booster for better performance

Drawbacks:

  • VPN limited to 1 GB/month (except Prime)
  • No parental controls

Key Features:

  • Privacy optimization 
  • System optimization 
  • VPN 
  • Password manager

9. Trend Micro – Best for Secure Web Browsing

Trend Micro is built for safe browsing. It blocks phishing scams, ransomware, and other online threats while offering privacy tools for social media and banking.

Why We Like Trend Micro

  • Ransomware protection
  • Social media privacy tools
  • Secure banking tools

Drawbacks:

  • No dedicated firewall
  • Optimisation tools could be better

Key Features:

  • Antivirus scanner 
  • Customizable scans
  • Phishing protection
  • Browsing history scanning 
  • Password manager
  • Web ad blocker 

10. Malwarebytes – Best for Basic Protection

Looking for something simple and effective? Malwarebytes focuses on core protection with extras like a VPN and browser security. It's perfect for no-fuss users.

Why We Like Malwarebytes:

  • Strong exploit protection
  • VPN with unlimited data
  • Browser extension blocks phishing & scam sites

Drawbacks:

  • No built-in firewall
  • Limited extra features compared to competitors

Key Features:

  • Exploit protection
  • Malware scanner 
  • VPN 
  • Web protection
  • Browser extension 
  • Identity protection 

Conclusion: 

Choosing antivirus software doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you want full-feature protection like Norton 360, lightweight performance from Bitdefender, or a straightforward option like Malwarebytes, the 10 Best Antivirus Software in 2025 have something for every type of user.

Take your pick based on your budget and needs—and enjoy safer, stress-free browsing all year round.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best antivirus software for 2025?

The best antivirus software for 2025 depends on your needs. For all-around protection, Norton 360 is highly recommended. For lightweight protection, Bitdefender is ideal, while Malwarebytes is great for basic, no-fuss protection. Check out our full guide for more options tailored to different user needs.

Do I need antivirus software if I already have a firewall?

Yes, antivirus software provides additional protection against malware, ransomware, and phishing, which firewalls alone cannot handle. While firewalls protect your network, antivirus software scans your device for harmful software and threats.

What’s the difference between a free and paid antivirus?

Free antivirus software typically provides basic protection, while paid options offer advanced features like identity protection, VPNs, cloud storage, and more comprehensive scanning. Paid antivirus also often includes customer support and fewer ads.

Is Bitdefender Total Security worth the price?

Yes, Bitdefender Total Security offers excellent malware detection with minimal system impact, making it a great choice for users who want strong protection without slowing down their device. It also includes features like a password manager, VPN, and web protection.

Can I use antivirus software on multiple devices?

Most antivirus programs, like Norton 360 and McAfee, offer plans that cover multiple devices, including PCs, smartphones, and tablets. Be sure to check the plan details to see how many devices are included.

Is a VPN included with all antivirus software?

Not all antivirus software includes a VPN. Norton 360, Kaspersky Premium, and Bitdefender are examples of antivirus programs that offer VPN services. However, some products like Trend Micro and Malwarebytes include VPNs with specific plans or upgrades.

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*FYI, parts of this blog post were drafted by artificial technlogy. But rest assured, it's been thoroughly researched, edited, reviewed and me & my team.
Ronan Short
Founder @ IT Support 4U

Ronan Short, the founder of IT Support, is a trusted authority in the IT industry, passionate about providing top-tier tech support at IT Support. Dedicated to solving complex problems with simplified solutions, catering to all your SME IT needs with cost-effective solutions.