How good are free antivirus programs?

To protect your system and data from malware, you need appropriate protection. In addition to the many paid protection solutions, there are also numerous free tools that also protect against viruses and malware. Learn which free tools you can use to protect your system.

Free antivirus software at a glance

The free antivirus programs often offer only basic protection, but this is already enough to protect your system from attacks by viruses and malware.

• You will, however, have to do without additional features such as a VPN connection, online backups or a password vault with many free virus programs.
• Free tools such as AVG Antivirus Free, Avira Free Security Suite, Avast Free Antivirus or Panda Free Antivirus, however, offer extensive basic protection.
• Many of the various programs can be upgraded to the paid version if required. Depending on the program, you can even book or buy only individual features.

Windows 10 Defender: With on-board means against malware

The Windows 10 operating system is already equipped with good antivirus software ex works. Defender is regularly updated and improved by Microsoft. The protection is automatically activated if no other antivirus software is installed. In addition to a firewall, Defender is also equipped with real-time protection. You can also set up ransomware protection in the form of backups via Microsoft's cloud. To avoid complications with other protection programs, Defender switches off as soon as you install another tool.