This free version works on computers running Windows 7 to Windows 11. This could prove extremely useful if one is seeking a powerful tool for removing malware, but don’t want to sacrifice too much performance. But this doesn’t detract from the fact that it’s a powerful anti-malware option that has a proven track record at detecting even some of the more exotic malware strains around, and is mercifully free of advertisements.īitdefender Antivirus Free Edition also comes with the company’s Photon cloud-based scan system, which is designed to adapt the intensity at which it uses resources to match a device’s capabilities. There’s no denying that Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition lacks some of the more powerful features of the company’s paid offering, such as a password locker and advanced ransomware recovery features. This is a market-leading product when combined with other tools for preventing viruses.įor more information, read our full Avast Antivrius Free review. The free suite doesn’t push its premium plan that much, but you will find that tools in the paid tier are marked out visibly. These free features will only alert users to issues, while paying for the premium tier will ensure the software fixes these problems automatically, but as free software it still provides welcome insight into your security position.

The tool thwarts malware from writing to protected locations without approval from the user. This is much like Windows' built-in Controlled Folder Access feature, although the user interface is better looking. This then gives forward warning to facilitate actions such as changing affected passwords or adding two factor authentication (2FA). The Hack Alert feature is handy in helping users comprehend threats outside the business, such as if your email address has been found in a data breach. With the software installed, the tool sets off a scan of your browser to find any possible malicious extensions and installed apps. This aids in discovering insecure passwords or other weaknesses. These include a Wi-Fi scanner that detects other devices on a network you are on.

There is a variety of scanning and notification alternatives that will help you customise the tool to your own particular needs.

But Avast really comes up trumps with the wide range of extra features. This software provides robust malware protection, scoring 98.9% in an AV-Comparatives malware test, which is excellent for a free service and higher than many of its rivals.

Best free malware scanner