We did the research for you: choosing the best antivirus software

What to choose when you have too many options?

It’s no secret that you should keep antivirus software on your computer. However, choosing the right program can be a daunting task. Just go to Wikipedia, search for antivirus software. It pulls up a list of over 100 different types just for Microsoft Windows, probably the most vulnerable OS. For practical purposes, this article is going to focus on software for Windows.

Don’t forget that all of your devices may require antivirus software, and some of the products work across all your electronics when you buy the license.

I’ve pulled together five charts that list the top antivirus software programs for 2015/2016. On the average, you can expect to pay about $40 for top antivirus software for the year. It’s a small cost compared to having to fix one after a virus infection or even having to replace your computer. Not only are you paying for a technician, but you will lose worktime while your system is offline.

ComparedandREviewed.com

This site reviews software and technology, and says it gives expert recommendations. Personally, I’d feel a bit better if I knew which experts were making the recommendations. However, they do have an extensive chart with good information. Their top three picks are:

1. BitDefender AntiVirus Plus 2015
2. VIPRE Antivirus 2015
3. Kaspersky Anti-Virus 2015

PC Magazine

PC Magazine has been around since 1982. For my money, these guys have the history to fully vet antivirus software. Their Editor’s Choices are:

1. Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus (2015)
2. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus 2016
3. Kaspersky Anti-Virus (2016)
4. McAfee AntiVirus Plus (2016)

Asecurelife.com

A Secure Life has been around since 2008 providing security resources. They have great bios on their team of researchers. They ranked 22 of the top antivirus programs. Here are their top 3:

1. BitDefender
2. Kaspersky
3. Panda Antivirus 2016

PC Antivirus Reviews

According to thewebsite, PC Antivirus Reviews has been trusted since 2006. However, I couldn’t find any company personnel or information about their sponsors or business, so I’m a bit skeptical about their expertise and association. They list their top three antivirus software as:

1. Vipre Antivirus
2. ESET Antivirus
3. AVG Anti-Virus

10 TopTen Reviews

Purch.com, the company behind 10 TopTen Reviews lists their own annual report of antivirus software.

1. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
2. Kaspersky
3. McAfee AntiVirus Plus

Final recommedations

Based on these recommendations, Bitdefender, Kaspersky or Webroot SecureAnywhere would be my first choice for computer protection. AVG might have a free version, but remember that you get what you pay for. Don’t take chances. Update your antivirus software today.

#Antivirus