As a successful IT support business, we know computer virus removal, malware and how to prevent it. Read about our top picks for the best computer protection software! We suggest you install at least one of these products for the best computer protection against malicious attacks, annoying popups and identity theft.
The Best Computer Protection For Windows 10 – December 2024
 | see discount | Winner - Best performance | YES | Unlimited | YES | YES | YES | YES |
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 | see discount | 2nd - Great for the family | YES | 1-10 | YES | YES | YES | YES |
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 | see discount | 3rd - Soild all rounder | YES | 1-5 | YES | YES | YES | YES |
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 | see it | Great all-rounder | YES | 1 | YES | YES | YES | NO |
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 | see it | Multi Device Protection | YES | 5 | YES | YES | YES | NO |
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 | see it | Automated & easy to use | YES | 2-6 | YES | YES | YES | YES |
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 | see it | Excellent tech support features | YES | 1-5 | YES | YES | YES | YES |
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 | see it | Unique detection methods. Very effective | YES | 1 | YES | YES | YES | NO |
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 | see it | Great value for money virus protection | YES | 1-3 | YES | YES | YES | YES |
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 | see it | Awesome value for money virus protection | YES | 1-10 | YES | YES | YES | NO |
Alex B – Editor & Computer Tech
”Malicious computer software is growing faster than ever and fortunately for us, the latest computer protection software products are equipped to handle the vast majority of malicious attacks. Simply put, you get what you pay for when it comes to free internet security vs the premium best computer protection for Windows. If you’re asking yourself the question – What is the best computer virus protection software for either Windows or Mac? We’ve done the hard work and reviewed the top 10 Windows protection for you. Every paid or free PC protection program we recommend below in our list is worth your investment. The differences between these best security software are minor and they all perform extremely well in our tests.”
Common FAQs Regarding Windows PC Protection Software
Is it important that I buy expensive software to clean any viruses or Malware from my PC?
Not necessarily. Though some computer protection software offer more for their price, for some of the basic functions there are some inexpensive options and some that are free. But you must do your research before utilizing any free anti-virus software or malware removal software because they might be harmful to your PC especially is they advertise themselves via pop-up windows or an unsolicited email.
How would I know if my PC was Infected?
There are some tell-tell signs to be on the lookout for. For example, your computer might be running slower than usual. It might start crashing out of nowhere, resetting itself, or displaying error messages. But occasionally you won’t have any issues at all, that’s why it’s important to get some computer protection software that frequently scans your computers for viruses so you know what can be hiding.
I don’t have to worry about threats because I tend to stay away from shady websites—isn’t that right?
Wrong. There are many ways for a virus to infect your computer. Like using a flash drive. Flash drives can transfer viruses as well as files from one computer to another. That’s why you should scan them before opening any documents saved. And even just visiting corporate websites isn’t a safe bet that you won’t pick something up. There have been instances where large scale company websites have infected their site visitors with malware. So, you should always protect your computer, because you never know where the threat may come from.
What are some things I need to keep my computer safe?
No product on the market can keep your computer safe from every threat, however there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. For instance, you should install some sort of antivirus or computer protection program that updates its virus definitions daily. Make sure you configure your PC and that you are connected correctly to your internet source. This ensures that your computers default defenses are being utilized to their maximum potential. Make sure you have your automatic settings enabled. Do this across multiple systems on your computer, including your security software, operating system, any other system applications. Remember to be vigilant about things on the internet. Spotting what seems like a scam and knowing when you should follow a link or open a document can mean the difference between a clean PC and one that is riddled with bugs. And remember to perform backups on your computer regularly so that if your computer does get infected and you have to reboot your entire system you won’t lose any of your data.
Is one anti-virus software program better than another?
Yes and no. Most of the top anti-virus software contains some of the same features, but they may differ on certain aspects. One may offer a better application for some features over other companies, but overall any of them would be an improvement over having no protective software at all. You just have to decide which features are more important to you.
Should I use more than one anti-virus software?
No, it’s best to use just one anti-virus software for several reasons. One, these programs together could decimate your computers storage and leave you no system storage space for any new applications. Also, the two software may conflict with each-others programing and make virus blocking features ineffective, causing you more harm than good.
So, do I have to uninstall old protective software while installing a new one?
Yes, it’s a good safety precaution to install new antivirus software while removing your old one because it lessens the window of unprotection for your computer. And because new software won’t install it detects old antivirus software still on the system.
Will installing this protective software protect my computer completely?
No antivirus or computer protection software is 100%. New threats are developed every day and attempts are made to detect these new threats as soon as possible, but there will be times when a virus can slip through the cracks before a new update for the protection software can detect.
Windows Computer Protection Software
Your computer is put at risk every time you browse the web. New viruses, spyware, and malware are being developed every day and they are getting harder to avoid. That’s why it is important to have computer protection software installed on your PC. You will significantly reduce your chances of external computer threats affecting your PC and all your data.
What is Computer Protection Software?
Computer protection software is a program on a computer that is specifically designed to aid in security of the computer owner’s information and enhance the computers defenses against cyber threats. There are several components to computer protection software, and depending on the threat level, there are certain aspects that can be of great use to keep your computer safe and some that may not be necessary. Types of computer protection software include:
- Antivirus – Software that searches a computer’s hard drive for viruses and then actively obliterates them. Microsoft and Apple have their own brand (windows antivirus software and mac antivirus software)
- Anti-Spyware – Spyware is a unique brand of virus that instead of downloading bits of code and programing, this software gathers information about the computer user and sells what they’ve gathered to different companies. Anti-spyware software detects these threats and puts an end to them. This is usually often separate from the average computer protection software package.
- Anti-Malware – Malware is the shorten form of malicious software, which is a general term that includes many categories of viruses like Trojan horses, worms, and even spyware. Anti-Malware software features is known for its ability to adapt to new threats and counteracting them.
- Firewalls – One of the oldest types of computer protection software. This feature attempts to limit the spread of a virus in the network by controlling the flow of traffic between two networks. PC using Windows have a firewall already built in from Microsoft.
- Security Suites – This type of software combines components from many of the computer protection software listed above. This option offers an overall solution for any kind of virus that may try to attack your computer. This catch-all solution is complex and is constantly updating itself.
- VPN – Virtual Private Networks – VPNs are a great way to encrypt and anonymise your online browsing as well as circumvent geographic restrictions placed on you because of where you live in the world. Comparing the best VPN service to protect your connection can be a great way to prevent hackers and malicious attacks on your computer.
How does PC Protection Software Work?
Computer protection software works differently depending on the type of software you purchase and who you purchased it from. Depending on the company and the service, you could be getting multiple protective software installed or just a few. The function of internet security software differs based on the type of software it is. Firewalls are installed to control the information that flows in to, out of and between networks. This is done in two ways. By monitoring the hardware component or the software components, both are effective at their job however they are located in different areas.
Who is Windows Protection Software For?
Computer protection software is for anyone who uses the internet or shares a network. Hackers and scammers are working overtime to develop new and debilitating viruses geared at either stealing your information or causing issues with your operating system. This goes for small home computers as well as huge corporate computers. With the internet being such a prevalent part of our lives, stumbling upon a virus or malware while browsing is inevitable. However, that doesn’t mean that it has to spell doom for your computer, that’s why you have to plan ahead with computer protection software so that any kind of virus or malware that appears can be immediately dealt with.
Why do I need Computer Protection?
The spread of computer viruses is simple. Clicking on the wrong link or downloading a suspicious file could open you up to many problems that could have been avoided had you used some sort of up to date computer protection software.
Besides avoiding spam email attachments from unknown senders. Computer users should read dialogue boxes before clicking okay, some computer ads will say your computer is infected and you need to download some software or apply a plugin to watch some content to get you to download a virus. Make sure to use recognized sources for your multimedia needs and to be cautious when downloading anything from a USB from strangers. These small tricks will help you avoid a virus. But the most crucial step to avoiding computer problems is by having security features already in place.
Keeping your information safe is important to everyone and if you are using the internet for any reason than you should have the proper precautions in place. Because there will be attempts to infiltrate your computer and one wrong click is all that is needed. So, having computer protection can give you the peace of mind that for your situation.
Pros of Computer Protection Programs
- Peace of Mind: Having computer protection software gives you that peace of mind so that you know anytime you’re not sure about something that you’re downloading your protection software can keep that potential threat from getting serious.
- Active Protection for Computer Information: Your information is important and that is why you need to keep it safe. Having around the clock protection will make your computer information one less thing you have to worry about.
- One Wrong Click isn’t the End for Your Computer: A click on the wrong ad or pop-up can send data-stealing viruses towards you, but with the right protections in place, you can avoid having one click ruin your computer or your day.
Cons of Computer Protection Software
- It Might Cost You: Good comprehensive protection may come at a price. These prices vary with the company and package size so you have to be wise about what you choose to get. A plan with only a few features leaves you open to vulnerabilities. However, a plan with too many features is unnecessary and can be needlessly expensive.
- Protection Software Takes Up a lot of Computer Space: With the constant updates and countless versions of software ready to be downloaded, you may need to make space for these features. You may not be able to keep your favorite cat video but at least your computer is safe.
What are the Main Features That You Should Look For?
- Security Suites: This feature is a hub of different protection software that a security company can offer to keep your computer safe. Some of the most basic features within these suites include Antivirus, Anti-Malware, firewalls, internet filter software, spam filter software, etc. But, the best suites offer something other than the usual protection software like anti-phishing, and file scanning to name a few.
- Signature Detection: This is a basic feature of security for most protection software. It uploads the information of known viruses so if your computer comes across the signature of this virus it can detect and avoided. However, with the sheer number of viruses being produced, security experts can’t keep up with the analysis of the volume, so your computer may not be able to detect new viruses that are created. However, signature detection is still a useful feature and should be standard in your protection software.
- Behavior and Cloud-Based Detection: This is a newer feature that is used in conjunction with signature detection to provide a security setup that is critical for internet surfers. Behavior detection software detects new viruses by observing their patterns and judges them based on past experiences.
- A Two-Way Firewall: A firewall is a great defense from potential threats, but the best firewalls contain software that can monitor your internet connection and keep strangers from gaining access to your Wi-Fi or VPN -virtual private network. They can also prevent your data from being leaked.
- Recovery and Backup Options: It’s important that if your computer should crash, you can recover or backup your information. Many of the best security software offer this feature, but you must ensure that there is encryption software so that your sensitive information can’t be easily hacked.