ZDNET has evaluated several antivirus programs for Windows 11, identifying Malwarebytes as the top choice due to its strong security features and user-friendly interface.
Malwarebytes: Best Overall
Malwarebytes stands out for its reliable protection against malware, viruses, and phishing. The free version offers on-demand scans, while the paid version enhances security with real-time protection, automated scan scheduling, and the Browser Guard extension. Supported platforms include Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. Users appreciate its robust protection and simplicity, though the free version is somewhat limited.
Norton 360 Deluxe: Feature-Rich Option
Norton 360 Deluxe is praised for its comprehensive features, including antivirus, anti-malware, ransomware protection, a password manager, VPN, and Dark Web monitoring. It supports multiple devices and offers 50 GB of cloud backup. While it is simple to set up, users should be aware of potentially high renewal costs after the initial promotional pricing.
TotalAV: Budget-Friendly Choice
TotalAV is a cost-effective option, often available at a discounted rate for the first year. It provides protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware, and includes a VPN, ad blocker, and system tune-up tools. Independent tests highlight its effectiveness and minimal performance impact, though some users report issues with customer service and subscription cancellations.
Other recommended antivirus solutions include McAfee Total Protection, Avast One, Windows Security, ESET NOD32, Bitdefender Total Security, and privacy-focused tools like uBlock Origin and the Brave browser. Users are advised to choose based on their specific needs, with Malwarebytes offering overall ease and protection, Norton 360 Deluxe providing extensive features, and TotalAV catering to budget-conscious users.
