In 2025, most devices come with built-in antivirus software. These tools scan files you attempt to download, blocking anything they deem suspicious.

If you only want antivirus software to protect a single Windows computer, you can choose the free version of Bitdefender Antivirus. Bitdefender also offers a free antivirus for Android.

The first tier, Avira Free Security, includes the core antivirus, device performance optimization tools, a VPN with 500MB of monthly bandwidth and a password manager.

However, you may not need to purchase or download antivirus software for your computer. Windows 10 and 11 include Microsoft Defender, a free antivirus tool that provides good protection for most ...

In a perfect world, antivirus software would only collect and share data that was absolutely necessary. Since that’s not the world we live in, you’ll need to be proactive in protecting yourself.

So, if you’re using Windows 11, you’ll want an antivirus solution as part of your cybersecurity toolkit. Here’s why you should be using antivirus, and what software to get.

While VPNs and antivirus software are excellent tools and can be tremendous assets for your online privacy and security, they’re not 100% failsafe and can’t cover every threat posed online.