Best Antivirus for Windows 7 2024

Mytips.id - I have conducted extensive testing on numerous free antivirus programs against thousands of Windows malware files, both old and new.

 I not only evaluate the malware protection capabilities of each antivirus, but also consider their reputation in terms of user privacy, ability to integrate with the latest Windows versions, and user interface. However, it is important to remember that every free antivirus has its limitations. 

That is why I always recommend investing a little in premium antivirus software that covers all types of malware - including additional features such as a virtual private network (VPN), dark web monitoring, and password management (Norton 360 offers all these features and is ranked as the best antivirus software of 2024, with a very affordable price). 

Nonetheless, it is better to use the best free antivirus than not to use any antivirus at all! I have found some excellent free antivirus programs that offer better protection than the built-in Windows Defender, as well as features not included in Windows Defender.

1. Norton

Norton is my preferred Windows antivirus software on the market - and while it currently does not offer a free plan, it provides a risk-free 60-day money-back guarantee for you to try it out for 2 months.

 It boasts an advanced malware detection engine, a wide range of additional features, and cost-effective plans covering up to 10 devices across all operating systems. 

Norton offers exceptional malware detection against all known and emerging cyber threats. In all my tests, it successfully identified every type of malware, from viruses to spyware. 

It also provides outstanding phishing protection, a customizable firewall, and online banking and shopping security. 

Furthermore, Norton includes a variety of valuable extras such as VPN (unlimited data), password manager, parental controls, secure browser, system optimization tools, and dark web monitoring. Norton's dark web monitoring feature employs live human agents to actively scan dark web forums, credit reports, and breach databases to alert you to any data leaks.

2. Bitdefender Antivirus Free for Windows

Bitdefender Antivirus Free for Windows is one of the best free antivirus programs available, achieving a 100% malware detection rate during my tests. 

It utilizes a cloud-based scanner, reducing the impact on your system during detection and analysis. 

Bitdefender also offers excellent anti-phishing protection and remains lightweight with no significant impact on system performance. 

The free version lacks additional features found in the premium version, which includes ransomware protection, online banking security, VPN, password management, parental controls, and more.

3. Panda Free Antivirus

Panda Free Antivirus for Windows is lightweight, secure, and user-friendly. 

During my testing, Panda's antivirus scanner detected more adware, spyware, and ransomware compared to Windows Defender. 

The real-time protection feature effectively blocks most malware files I attempted to download. Plus, Panda offers a Rescue Kit, allowing users to download a bootable version to clean infected PCs. This feature is rare among free antivirus programs.

4. Total AV

TotalAV Free Antivirus provides excellent virus and phishing protection, with its cloud-based malware scanner detecting and removing more malware samples than most antivirus programs.

 Its phishing protection is top-notch, utilizing a large blacklist and AI-powered detection system to identify known phishing sites. TotalAV is intuitive and easy to use, with a minimalist dashboard making navigation straightforward for users.

In conclusion, investing in premium antivirus software is recommended for comprehensive protection. However, using a free antivirus program is better than having no protection at all. Choose the best option that suits your needs and ensure your device's security against cyber threats.