Microsoft released Windows 10 on the 29th of July, 2015. Other notable earlier versions – Windows 8.1-were released in 2013, Windows 7 in 2009, and Win XP in 2001. In its recent Hardware Report, Firefox provides data on operating system market share, which reveals that Win 7 is still used by 45%, Win 10 by 26%, Win XP by 10%, and Win 8.1 by 8% of users. The question of stability, major privacy issues, hardware compatibility, and software compatibility has made users still stick on to older versions of Windows. However, Microsoft ended support for Win XP in April 2009 and for Win 7 in Jan 2015.
The popularity of older operating system versions doesn’t seem to wane. However, securing the computers/devices from malware is a major issue. Microsoft won’t be releasing any sort of security patch updates. Antivirus solutions play a very important role in securing devices from malware. Even for Windows operating systems that are receiving support, and also for operating systems that are not receiving support.
There are many antivirus software in the market, some are effective and many are not. This blog discusses the top free antivirus solutions and the top paid antivirus solutions in the market.
Top Rated Free Antivirus Protection For The Windows Computer:
#1. Comodo Free Antivirus
A very popular free antivirus software for Windows versions due to the fact that it is the only AV that contains all of the features of its paid version – except support. It combines the most advanced and best antimalware protection technologies in a single package. This AV is compatible with Windows 10 and proactively protects against advanced security threats. This comes along with a highly robust and reputed Firewall. Comodo AV also features a Host Intrusion Prevention System and auto-sandboxing technology that limits damage from unknown programs. As it performs quick, cloud-based scans, it uses the latest updated virus databases. All unknown files are automatically placed in a sandbox and only known verified files are allowed to run on the computer system. It supports all versions of Windows.
#2. Avast Free Antivirus
This is a popular AV solution that has been around for a long time. It also has useful components for better management – a Safe Zone browser, Security browser extension, SafePrice extension, and Cloud Syncing Password Manager. The scan checks for available patches for applications on the computer checks for vulnerabilities in the network, including the router. Regarding CONS – it throws up considerable false positives, which is quite a pain.
#3. AVG AntiVirus Free
This security solution provides essential malware and spyware protection for Windows PCs or tablets. It is very popular, easy to use, effective and can be used to protect an UNLIMITED number of Windows computers and phones/tablets through Zen-enabled software. The cloud-based Real-Time Outbreak Detection and proactive AI Detection provide good protection even against the latest malware. This solution is compatible with Windows 10.
Top Rated Paid Antivirus Protection For The Windows Computer:
#1. Comodo Internet Security
A robust solution that includes a Firewall and antivirus. The package includes 24/7 malware removal support and a virus-free guarantee. Secure Shopping is a breakthrough technology that isolates the browser inside a secure container to provide total protection against hackers and malware. It also features a unique sandbox technology that automatically locks unknown files in a secure environment, and the Valkyrie system conducts a real-time behavioral test to look for not yet known malware such as ransomware. Additionally, it also features anti-spyware, anti-rootkit, and bot protection. The solution is compatible with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, and 10 versions.
#2. Avira Antivirus Pro
Avira includes antivirus and firewall. It also features parental monitoring that allows monitoring of children’s social networking accounts. This could help find out about their friends, contacts, and habits. This solution offers excellent virus and malware protection apart from basic firewall protection. The standard features of the Avira Antivirus Pro provide the needed security for any Windows OS.
#3. McAfee Internet Security
This solution is a complete security package with security features that are more advanced than the standard versions. McAfee/Intel also offers Intel’s True Key password management service that allows access to your devices through fingerprint, face recognition, etc.., Further, it also offers real-world protection and file detection.
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