Microsoft’s built-in antivirus software, now called Windows Security, doesn’t require either a subscription or an installation thus it provides many benefits for no cost. It is highly regarded by the top AV testing labs across the globe, and offers solid malware protection without affecting performance. It also features some useful features, including the protection against ransomware as well as a password manager. It isn’t equipped with some of the more essential features found in premium antivirus suites, and isn’t a great user interface.

The virus and threat protection module provides quick scans full scans, custom scans as well as an offline scan mode that is specifically designed to eliminate the most difficult threats. The firewall and network module is easy to use, but not as robust as its competitors. The biggest drawback, however is that it’s only compatible with Windows devices, so if you’re looking to protect your Mac or Android phone, you’ll have to find a different option.

Family options include parental controls as well as the ability to monitor the health of the devices in your family. There’s even a password manager hidden within the Edge browser, which is able to sync with your other devices. The drawback is that you can’t actually control the features through the app and have to make use of a browser to manage the https://cyberkilla.com/top-antivirus-for-linux features.

Contrary to the majority of antivirus software It doesn’t integrate into the Windows kernel – a method which could open new attack opportunities for black hats and can be a risk to the stability of your operating system. It also provides good behavior detection and stops users from accidentally downloading malicious files.