Best Free Antivirus Software for 2025 – Ranked & Reviewed
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As cyber threats continue to evolve, having reliable antivirus protection is crucial. We've tested and reviewed the best free antivirus solutions available in 2025 to help you make an informed decision about protecting your devices.
Feature Comparison
| Software | Real-time Protection | System Impact | Extra Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avast Free | Yes | Medium | VPN (Limited) |
| AVG Free | Yes | Medium | File Shredder |
| Malwarebytes | No (Free Version) | Low | Advanced Scanning |
| Bitdefender Free | Yes | Low | Anti-phishing |
| Windows Defender | Yes | Low | Cloud Protection |
1. Avast Free Antivirus
Download: Official Avast Website
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong malware protection | Frequent upgrade prompts |
| User-friendly interface | Some features require premium |
2. AVG AntiVirus Free
Download: Official AVG Website
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to use | Occasional pop-ups |
| File shredder included | Limited features in free version |
3. Malwarebytes Free
Download: Official Malwarebytes Website
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent malware removal | No real-time protection in free version |
| Light system impact | Limited features |
4. Bitdefender Antivirus Free
Download: Official Bitdefender Website
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | Basic interface |
| Excellent detection rates | Minimal configuration options |
5. Windows Defender
Access: Built into Windows 10 and 11
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Built-in solution | Basic features only |
| No extra installation needed | Limited customization |
Conclusion
All these free antivirus solutions offer solid basic protection for your computer. Choose based on your specific needs:
- Best Overall: Bitdefender Free
- Most Features: Avast Free
- Best for Malware Removal: Malwarebytes
- Best Built-in Solution: Windows Defender
- Best User Interface: AVG Free
Remember that while these free options provide good basic protection, premium versions offer additional features and enhanced security.