How to Protect Your PC and Mobile Devices from Threats IT
Have you just purchased a new PC or mobile device and want to protect it from all potential cyber threats? Know that you don't need to spend a fortune to ensure your online security. In this article, we will explore some of the best free antivirus software options available on the market.
Choose between Free and Paid Antivirus
If you think that a good antivirus has to be expensive, you are wrong. There are several free options that offer a level of protection comparable to that of paid suites. However, it is good to know that free solutions may lack some additional features such as firewalls and VPNs.
Note: If you prefer more advanced options, there are sites that offer paid software licenses at discounted prices. These platforms sell unused licenses from companies, compliant with European laws.
Free Antivirus Options for PC
Let's take a look at the best free antiviruses for Windows PCs, based on data provided by specialized companies such as AV-Test and AV Comparatives.
Windows Defender: Microsoft's Integrated Antivirus
For new Windows users, Windows Defender is a great starting option. This antivirus software is already pre-installed in Windows and offers robust protection especially when you are connected to the Internet. The antivirus does not burden the system, making it ideal for less powerful PCs.
To check your settings, go to 'Settings' > 'Update & Security' > 'Windows Security'. Here, you can make sure that all security features are active.
Avira Free Antivirus: Extended Protection and Ease of Use
Avira Free Antivirus is known for its excellent performance in comparative tests and its high level of protection. The software is lightweight and easy to install. After installation, you can run a quick scan to check for any security issues. Avira also offers options for custom scans, allowing you to focus on specific areas of your system.
Bitdefender Free: One of the Best on the Market
Bitdefender is known for its effectiveness and intuitive user interface. It is one of the most recommended antivirus in the cybersecurity industry. After downloading and installing it, you will be asked to create a free account. After that, you can perform full or targeted scans of your system.
Avast Free Antivirus: Complete and Reliable
Avast is another free antivirus that offers a wide range of features. After installation, the software will perform an initial scan of your system. Avast also gives you the ability to perform targeted scans, giving you total control over your PC's security.
To conclude, malware protection is essential in an increasingly digitalized world. Choosing a good antivirus may seem like a daunting task, but with the right information, you can easily find the solution that's right for you. I hope this article has given you the information you need to make an informed decision.
Panda Free Antivirus: Effectiveness and Lightness
Are you looking for an effective and lightweight antivirus? Then you should consider Panda Free Antivirus. Thanks to its cloud-based technology, this security software takes advantage of remote servers for some of the heaviest operations, thus lightening the load on your computer. One of the most interesting features is that virus definitions reside in the cloud, ensuring constant and immediate updates. However, it is worth noting that you will be more vulnerable if you lose your internet connection.
How to Install Panda Free Antivirus
To download and install Panda Free Antivirus on your PC, visit the official website and follow the guided steps. The process is quite simple: click on “Download”, then on “No, thanks” and finally on “Download now”. Once the download is complete, run the .exe file and follow the on-screen instructions. Once the installation is complete, you will be given the option to create an account, which is optional but offers advanced features and extra customizations.
VirusTotal: A Second Opinion on Suspicious Files
Another security tool that should not be underestimated is VirusTotal, an online service that allows you to scan files using more than 50 antivirus engines simultaneously. It is ideal for getting a "second opinion" on suspicious files, although it does not replace a traditional antivirus.
Using VirusTotal
Using VirusTotal is easy: go to the website, click on “Choose File” and upload the file you want to scan. Once the analysis is complete, you will have a complete overview of the results provided by the various antivirus engines. There are also utilities for Windows and macOS that allow you to upload files to VirusTotal directly from your desktop, without having to open your browser.
CleanMyMac X: A Mac-Specific Option
If you're a Mac user and want software that goes beyond simple antivirus protection, CleanMyMac It not only offers effective antivirus protection, but also a set of tools for cleaning and optimizing your Mac.
Features and Costs of CleanMyMac
CleanMyMac The paid version offers advanced features and costs 29.95 euros per year. You can download it directly from the Macpaw website.
Antivirus for Smartphones: Choice and Use
Protection shouldn't stop at your computer. There are many options to keep your mobile device safe too.
Antivirus for Android
If you are an Android user, know that Google offers basic protection built into the operating system. However, many of the PC antivirus solutions I talked about also offer a mobile version, including Avast, Bitdefender, and Panda.
Antivirus for iPhone
For iPhone and iPad users, the need for an antivirus is relatively low, unless you have jailbroken your device. However, if you want more information on how to protect your iPhone, there are specific guides on the topic.
I hope this guide has been useful to you in choosing the best free antivirus for your needs. Online security is key, so take the time to make the right choice.
