It doesn’t matter what you use your PC for; you could simply be posting on social media, you will still need antivirus protection. This list of best antivirus software of 2018 has been put together after studying results of independent antivirus testing labs, adware, spyware, and malware defenses, multilayered malware protection, ransomware protection, firewalls, and more. So, which are the best antivirus software in 2018?

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus
This antivirus has a new user software, VPN, additional ransomware protection, and even a network threat scan, along with great antivirus test results. It also has multi-layered ransomware protection, banking protection, as well as a password manager.

Kaspersky Anti-Virus
One of the most popular antiviruses on most lists, Kaspersky has great scores for testing labs, has excellent malicious URL blocking as well as malware blocking, has options for multiple bonus scans as well as 24×7 live chat and phone support. On the downside, the antivirus doesn’t score so well on anti-phishing tests. Nevertheless, the antivirus has remained a top favorite.

Symantec Norton AntiVirus Basic
One of the best-known antiviruses, Norton scores high on exploit and malware protection, as well as the malicious URL blocking tests.

Webroot SecureAnywhere AntiVirus
This speedy, small antivirus software is not only light on system resources but is great in terms of blocking and finding out fraudulent and malicious URLs, and in ransomware and malware protection. Its system scan is one of the fastest on the list. On the downside, lab test results aren’t there.

McAfee AntiVirus Plus
One of the more popular antiviruses, McAfee is a cross-platform antivirus that offers multiple device protection. The antivirus its features include file shredder, firewall, unlimited protection for iOS, MacOS, Android, and Windows devices, as well as good scores on malicious URL and malware blocking tests. However, some labs reported inconsistent testing results on some tests.

Avast Pro Antivirus
Avast not only features great scores for malicious blocking and anti-phishing. The antivirus features a password manager, a Wi-Fi inspector, protection against DNS hijacking, as well as a good network security scan. Its cons are that some of its bonus features need to be purchased separately by users.

Check Point ZoneAlarm PRO Antivirus + Firewall
This antivirus has the added advantage of having its antivirus program licensed by Kaspersky. It features powerful advanced firewall options as well as an effective and unique approach to phishing protection. On the downside, the phishing protection only works in Chrome browser and the advanced features are far too advanced for the average user.

Emsisoft Anti-Malware
Emsisoft features good scores on the independent lab tests, as well as great scores in malicious URL and malware blocking. It features signature-based effective detection which can flush out ransomware and a simple, clean, and easy-to-use user interface. Its shortcomings are that it doesn’t do so well when it comes to anti-phishing, and the signature-based detection warns not only about malware but also valid programs as well.

ESET NOD32 Antivirus
ESET features a Host Intrusion Prevention System that blocked malicious exploits in testing itself. It also features great scores on the independent lab tests, comprehensive device control, quick full scans, as well as a UEFI scanner that finds malware in firmware. Its phishing protection, however, isn’t that great, and its device control is difficult for average users.

Sophos Home Premium
Sophos Home Premium offers protection against malicious URLs, phishing, exploits, keyloggers, and ransomware. Not only is it cheap but it also offers remote management for up to 10 personal computers. Its disadvantages are that webcam protection and parental controls are limited, and the advanced features necessitate detailed tech expertise.

The Kure
When rebooted, the PC is restored to a malware-free, clean state with the Kure antivirus. What’s more, it can exempt personal data from being wiped off. It has also been proved extremely effective in ransomware recovery, but also features good live-chat tech support. However, the malware, until the PC is rebooted, can act untamed.