Don't know which antivirus to choose for your computer or phone? Here are the best and what you should consider
Considering the number of times or hours you spend daily connected to the Internet using your mobile phone or computer, these two gateways to access your data and personal information should be as secure as your home, car, etc. However, few people today are aware of the need for an antivirus, especially in the case of smartphones. Therefore, in this article you will learn how to choose the best antivirus for your computer and smartphone correctly.
- What is antivirus software and why do you need to get one?
Antivirus software is a program designed to protect your computer or smartphone from viruses and other digital threats, such as malware, Trojans, spyware, and more. When you connect to the internet, download files, or even connect other devices to your computer, you expose yourself to risks that can compromise your personal information, files, or even the performance of your devices.
In this context, you need to understand that a good antivirus is like having a digital guard watching over you and protecting you at all times, against any threat before it can cause harm. It is an important layer of security for anyone who uses devices connected to the Internet.
- What does antivirus protect against?
Most modern antivirus programs not only fight viruses, they are responsible for detecting and blocking them:
Malware : Software designed to damage your device or steal your information.
- Phishing : The scam attempts to steal your personal data.
- Trojan horses : Malware that disguises itself as a legitimate application.
Ransomware : Software that hijacks your device and demands a ransom to release it.
Spyware : Software that spies on your activity without your knowledge.
As you can see, today there are a huge number of threats on the Internet, and antiviruses are able to detect and eliminate them.
- Key factors for choosing a good antivirus
Choosing the right antivirus software depends on your needs, but there are some key factors to consider:
- Real-time protection : It is essential that your antivirus software has the ability to protect you in real-time, meaning it can detect and block threats the moment they try to enter your device. This ensures that no malware sneaks in without your knowledge.
- Device Performance : A good antivirus should protect you without affecting the performance of your computer or mobile phone. The best programs run in the background without consuming a lot of resources, allowing you to work or browse without any slowdown.
- Compatibility with multiple devices : Many of us today use more than one device: computers, mobile phones, tablets, etc. Choose an antivirus that offers protection for multiple devices and operating systems (Windows, macOS, Android, iOS).
- Ease of use : The antivirus program should be easy to use. The configuration should be simple, and the program should be intuitive so that you can take advantage of all its features without complications.
- Frequent updates : The world of cyber threats is changing rapidly, and your antivirus software should always be up to date. Make sure to choose a program that receives frequent updates to protect you from the latest threats.
Paid or free antivirus software?
One of the first doubts that arise when choosing an antivirus program is whether to choose a free or paid program. Free antivirus programs usually provide basic protection that may be sufficient if you only need to cover the basics. However, if you are looking for additional features such as parental controls, webcam protection, or an advanced firewall, it may be worth choosing the paid version.
If you're running Windows 11, Microsoft Defender antivirus works really well, is free, has a very good detection rate, consumes very few resources, integrates perfectly with the operating system, and is updated through Windows Update, so you'll be protected with the latest malware signatures available.
- What are the best antivirus programs today?
Here is a list of some of the most recommended antivirus programs at this time:
- Kaspersky : The famous antivirus is one of the best options out there, it is not only complete in terms of options, but also includes additional services such as a powerful firewall to protect our computer.
- Norton 360 : Offers a complete security suite, with protection against malware, ransomware, and an advanced firewall.
- McAfee Total Protection : Great for those looking for protection across multiple devices, with parental control options and Wi-Fi security.
- Bitdefender Total Security : Very complete and ideal for users who need advanced protection without sacrificing the performance of their devices.
- Avast : Available in both free and paid versions, it is a good option for those looking for basic protection at no cost.
Choosing an antivirus program is an important decision to make to keep your devices safe. Take the time to evaluate your needs, compare options, and make sure the program you choose meets your expectations.
Digital security starts with good antivirus software that allows you to surf the Internet, work, and enjoy with complete peace of mind.