Microsoft’s integrated antivirus program known as Windows Security now, does not require an annual subscription. It’s also free. The product is incredibly well-regarded by the world’s leading testing labs for AV and provides solid protection against malware without affecting system performance. It also features some useful extras, such as ransomware protection and a password manager. However, it lacks some essential features found in premium antivirus software, and isn’t the most user-friendly of alternatives.

Protection against threats and viruses includes the standard quick, complete and custom scans plus an intensive offline scan mode that tackles difficult-to-remove threats. The firewall and network module is easy to use, but it’s not as comprehensive than other options. The main drawback is that it only covers Windows devices. If you wish to safeguard the security of an Android or Mac phone, you’ll have to choose a different option.

The family options include parental control and the ability monitor the health of www.cyberkilla.com/best-virtual-data-room-according-to-customers-choice devices in your family. There’s a password manager that is hidden in the Edge browser, and it can sync to your other devices. The drawback is that you can’t control the features directly through the app, and you must use a web browser to do this.

It is different from other antivirus programs because it does not hook itself into the Windows Kernel. This could create new attack surfaces for hackers and weaken the operating system. Additionally, it provides some good behavioural detection and stops users from downloading malicious files.