In 2016 we wrote a blog posted titled "Security Software - Choosing what product works best for you?" That blog post still contains relevant information and sources to important places online that we encourage all consumers to review. At the end of the day we recommend sourcing unbiased testing from third parties and avoid taking recommendations of Big Box Stores or your favorite Computer Repair Shop [including us] because these recommendations are subject to change based on current partnerships and promotions [and how much kick back the vendor gives to the store or shop when they sell a product].
As cyber threats continue to evolve, ensuring the security of your devices is more important than ever. Whether you're using a Windows PC, a Mac, an iPhone, or an Android device, having the right security software is crucial. This blog post will guide you through the top subscription-based security software options available in the United States for 2024, organized by operating system and security features.
AV-Test Summary Chart
Subscription Security Software Options (Alphabetical List)
Here is a detailed list of subscription security software options, including single and multi-device pricing for 2024. Prices may vary based on promotions, locations, and specific features offered in each plan.
Single Device: $69.99/year for Avast Premium Security (1 device)
Multi-Device: $89.99/year for Avast Premium Security (up to 10 devices)
Single Device: $59.99/year for Avira Prime (1 device)
Multi-Device: $99.99/year for Avira Prime (up to 5 devices)
Single Device: $59.99/year for Bitdefender Antivirus Plus (1 device)
Multi-Device: $89.99/year for Bitdefender Total Security (up to 5 devices)
Single Device: $49.99/year for ESET NOD32 Antivirus (1 device)
Multi-Device: $79.99/year for ESET Internet Security (up to 3 devices)
Single Device: $59.99/year for Kaspersky Anti-Virus (1 device)
Multi-Device: $99.99/year for Kaspersky Total Security (up to 5 devices)
Single Device: $44.99/year for Malwarebytes Premium (1 device)
Multi-Device: $79.99/year for Malwarebytes Premium (up to 5 devices)
Single Device: $89.99/year for McAfee Total Protection (1 device)
Multi-Device: $119.99/year for McAfee Total Protection (up to 5 devices)
Single Device: $84.99/year for Norton 360 Standard (1 device)
Multi-Device: $104.99/year for Norton 360 Deluxe (up to 5 devices)
Single Device: $59.95/year for Trend Micro Antivirus+ Security (1 device)
Multi-Device: $89.95/year for Trend Micro Maximum Security (up to 5 devices)
Single Device: $39.99/year for Webroot Secure Anywhere Anti-Virus (1 device)
Multi-Device: $79.99/year for Webroot Secure Anywhere Internet Security Plus (up to 3 devices)
Security Software Recommendations by Operating System
1. Windows Operating System
Best Overall: Bitdefender Total Security
Offers comprehensive protection, including antivirus, anti-ransomware, VPN, and more. Rated highly for its low system impact and robust security features.
Runner-Up: Norton 360 Deluxe
Provides extensive protection, including a VPN, dark web monitoring, and a password manager. Consistently performs well in independent tests.
Lightweight Option: ESET NOD32 Antivirus
Known for its fast performance and effective malware protection, making it ideal for users with lower system resources.
2. Mac Operating System
Best Overall: Intego Mac Premium Bundle X9
Designed specifically for Mac, offering comprehensive protection including antivirus, firewall, parental controls, and backup.
Runner-Up: Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac
Provides excellent protection with minimal system impact and includes Time Machine protection.
Lightweight Option: ESET Cyber Security for Mac
Offers real-time protection and anti-phishing features while being light on system resources.
3. iPhone iOS (Apple) Operating System
Best Overall: Norton Mobile Security
Provides comprehensive mobile security, including a VPN, Wi-Fi security, and protection against malicious websites.
Runner-Up: McAfee Mobile Security
Includes anti-theft features, secure browsing, and identity protection, making it a strong contender.
Lightweight Option: Avira Mobile Security
Offers essential security features like identity protection, anti-theft, and call blocking in a lightweight package.
4. Android (Google, Motorola, OnePlus, Samsung) Operating System
Best Overall: Bitdefender Mobile Security
Provides robust protection with minimal impact on battery life, including anti-theft, web protection, and a VPN.
Runner-Up: Kaspersky Mobile Security
Offers comprehensive protection including anti-phishing, app lock, and real-time antivirus scanning.
Lightweight Option: ESET Mobile Security
Known for its efficient, low-resource impact with features like anti-theft and real-time scanning.
Additional Security Options
1. Network Firewall
Here is an extended list of network firewall options available to consumers, ranging from built-in software firewalls.
Avast Firewall
Available in Avast Premium Security, this firewall offers protection against hackers and malicious network activity with an easy-to-use interface.
Avira Firewall
Integrated into Avira Prime, it provides an enhanced firewall with more control over network connections.
Bitdefender Firewall
Available in Bitdefender Total Security, offering strong network protection with detailed control over incoming and outgoing traffic.
ESET Personal Firewall
Part of ESET Internet Security, it offers advanced firewall protection, controlling network access and blocking intrusions.
Norton Smart Firewall
Included with Norton 360, this firewall provides advanced protection against unauthorized access and malicious network activity.
Integrated into Kaspersky’s security suites, this firewall protects against network attacks and monitors all network activities.
McAfee Firewall
Part of McAfee Total Protection, it provides a two-way firewall that monitors both inbound and outbound traffic.
Trend Micro Firewall Booster
Included in Trend Micro Maximum Security, this tool enhances the built-in firewall, especially for gaming and streaming.
Webroot Firewall
A supplementary firewall included in Webroot Secure Anywhere, offering additional protection to complement the default OS firewall.
2. Browser Extensions Protection
Here is an extended list of browser extensions that offer robust protection against various online threats, including phishing, malicious websites, and trackers:
Avast Online Security
Protects against phishing sites, tracks website reputations, and blocks malicious downloads. Available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Avira Browser Safety
Protects against phishing, malware, and tracking. It also helps block unwanted ads. Available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Bitdefender Traffic Light
Provides real-time scanning of web pages, blocks malicious websites, and adds an extra layer of protection to your browsing. Compatible with Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.
ESET Online Scanner
Provides a free online scanning tool that can detect and remove threats directly from your browser. Available for Chrome and Firefox.
Kaspersky Protection
Offers secure browsing, anti-phishing, and blocks dangerous websites. Available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Malwarebytes Browser Guard
Blocks ads, trackers, malicious websites, and browser hijackers. Available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
McAfee Web Advisor
Helps avoid risky websites and prevents malicious downloads. Available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
Norton Safe Web
Protects against phishing sites, scams, and potentially malicious websites. Available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
Trend Micro Toolbar
Scans websites and social media feeds for potential threats and blocks dangerous links. Available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Webroot Web Threat Shield
Scans URLs and blocks dangerous sites before you visit them. Available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
3. Supplemental Adblocking Tools and Extensions
For users seeking additional ad-blocking capabilities, several browser extensions are available:
Blocks intrusive ads, pop-ups, and online tracking, enhancing both security and privacy. Available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
An open-source, highly efficient ad blocker that also protects against trackers and some types of malware. Available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Opera.
DuckDuckGo Privacy Essentials
Protects your privacy by blocking trackers, encrypting connections, and keeping your searches private. Available for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
Additional Features
Possibly Unwanted Programs (PUPs) or Possibly Unwanted Applications (PUAs) Detection
Here’s an updated list of tools for detecting and removing Possibly Unwanted Programs (PUPs) and Possibly Unwanted Applications (PUAs), including links to each product:
Malwarebytes provides robust detection and removal of PUPs and PUAs as part of its broader malware protection suite. It includes real-time protection and advanced scanning features to identify and eliminate unwanted programs.
AdwCleaner
A free tool from Malwarebytes specifically designed to remove adware, toolbars, and other unwanted software. It is lightweight and easy to use for quick scans.
Emsisoft Emergency Kit (EEK)
EEK offers a portable solution for detecting and removing malware, including PUPs and PUAs. It features a powerful scan engine and on-demand scanning capabilities.
HitmanPro
HitmanPro is a cloud-based malware scanner that detects and removes PUPs, PUAs, and other types of malware. It complements existing security solutions by providing an additional layer of protection.
These tools are effective for identifying and removing potentially unwanted programs that may not be caught by traditional antivirus software. They are particularly useful for users looking to clean up their systems from unnecessary or malicious software.
Password Managers
Norton Password Manager: Included with Norton 360, offering secure storage and auto-fill capabilities.
Bitdefender Password Manager: Part of Bitdefender Total Security, providing secure password storage and generation.
McAfee True Key: Available with McAfee Total Protection, offering secure login and multi-factor authentication.
Parental Controls
Norton 360 Deluxe: Includes robust parental controls for monitoring and managing children's online activities.
Bitdefender Total Security: Offers comprehensive parental controls, including screen time management and content filtering.
Kaspersky Safe Kids: Available as an add-on, offering advanced parental controls and monitoring features.
Consumer Metrics
When choosing a security suite, both individuals and businesses often consider various metrics to ensure they are getting the best protection and value. Here are some key points that may sway their opinions:
1. Company Ownership and Headquarters Location
Company Reputation: The reputation of the security software provider can influence consumer trust. Companies with a long history of reliable products and positive reviews are often preferred.
Ownership Concerns: Consumers might be wary of software from companies with ownership ties to other entities due to potential data sharing concerns. For example, NortonLifeLock, which owns Norton, Avast, AVG, and Avira, may face scrutiny regarding data privacy and competitive practices.
Headquarters Location: The location of a company’s headquarters can impact consumer choice due to data protection laws and perceived security. For example:
U.S.-based companies like McAfee and NortonLifeLock might be subject to U.S. surveillance laws.
European companies like Bitdefender (Romania) and Kaspersky (Russia) may be viewed through the lens of GDPR compliance and geopolitical considerations.
Avira and ESET (Slovakia) are based in regions with strict data protection regulations, which may be reassuring for privacy-conscious users.
2. Laws Determining Software Usage
Data Protection Laws: Regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in the U.S. impact how security software handles and protects user data. Software that complies with these laws is often preferred.
Government Restrictions: Some countries have restrictions on the use of certain software due to national security concerns.
3. Overall Rating of the Product Year Over Year
Performance Metrics: Regular evaluations from independent testing organizations like AV-Test and AV-Comparatives provide insights into a product's performance over time. Consistent high ratings in protection, performance, and usability are strong indicators of reliability.
Company Ownership and Headquarters
Understanding who owns these security companies and where they are headquartered is crucial, especially in a competitive and consolidating market.
Avast, AVG, Avira: Owned by Gen Digital Inc. (formerly NortonLifeLock), headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, USA. The consolidation of these brands under NortonLifeLock has raised concerns about reduced competition in the market.
Bitdefender: Owned by Bitdefender, headquartered in Bucharest, Romania.
ESET: Owned by ESET, headquartered in Bratislava, Slovakia.
Kaspersky: Owned by Kaspersky Lab, headquartered in Moscow, Russia. Kaspersky has faced scrutiny in the U.S. due to geopolitical concerns.
Malwarebytes: Owned by Malwarebytes Inc., headquartered in Santa Clara, California, USA.
McAfee: Owned by McAfee Corp., headquartered in San Jose, California, USA.
Norton360: Owned by Gen Digital Inc., headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, USA.
Trend Micro: Owned by Trend Micro Inc., headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.
Webroot: Owned by OpenText Corporation, headquartered in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
U.S. Laws Affecting Security Software Use
Several U.S. laws and regulations can impact the use of certain security software, particularly those from foreign-owned companies. For instance, the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) prohibits the use of Kaspersky software by government agencies due to national security concerns. Additionally, the CLOUD Act and various data privacy laws may influence consumer choices, as they pertain to how data is handled and stored by these companies. Source: https://www.bis.gov/press-release/commerce-department-prohibits-russian-kaspersky-software-us-customers
Performance in Prevention, Detection, and Removal
According to AV-Test and AV-Comparatives, many of the aforementioned security solutions consistently rank highly for their ability to prevent, detect, and remove threats. For example, Bitdefender and Norton frequently score at the top in malware detection and system performance, while Kaspersky and ESET are praised for their lightweight, yet effective, protection. Malwarebytes is particularly recognized for its excellent PUP detection and removal.
Year-Over-Year Performance
Over the past decade, Bitdefender, Norton, and Kaspersky have consistently been top performers in the security industry. These companies have maintained high scores in independent tests, reflecting their commitment to evolving their technology to meet new threats. Trend Micro and ESET have also shown strong performance, particularly in detection and low system impact. The consolidation of companies like Avast and Avira under NortonLifeLock has reshaped the market, but these brands continue to perform well under their new ownership.
Global Threat Analysis
In 2023 and 2024, the landscape of malware origin has evolved, reflecting both new and persistent threats. Here’s a summary of where malware is originating based on recent statistics and reports:
Phishing and Social Engineering Attacks
Statistics: According to the Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG), phishing attacks remained a leading method for distributing malware, with over 300,000 new phishing sites reported in 2023 alone (APWG Phishing Activity Trends Report). These attacks often lead to malware infections through malicious attachments or links.
2024 Update: The trend continued into 2024, with sophisticated phishing campaigns targeting high-profile organizations and individuals, often exploiting current events or popular trends to lure victims.
Malvertising and Malicious Ads
Statistics: Symantec (now NortonLifeLock) reported that malvertising campaigns were responsible for a significant portion of drive-by downloads in 2023, where users unknowingly download malware from compromised ads (Symantec Internet Security Threat Report).
2024 Update: The use of malicious advertisements continued to be a problem, with cybercriminals leveraging ad networks to distribute ransomware and other malware.
Compromised Software and Supply Chain Attacks
Statistics: Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR) highlighted that supply chain attacks, where malware is inserted into legitimate software updates, accounted for a significant percentage of breaches (Verizon DBIR).
2024 Update: Supply chain attacks remained a major threat, with notable incidents involving widely used software platforms, emphasizing the need for stringent security practices throughout the software development lifecycle.
Exploit Kits and Vulnerabilities
Statistics: The Exploit Database and CVE Details indicate that exploit kits targeting unpatched vulnerabilities were a major vector for malware in 2023, with numerous zero-day vulnerabilities being exploited by cybercriminals (Exploit Database, CVE Details).
2024 Update: Exploit kits continued to evolve, leveraging newly discovered vulnerabilities in popular software and operating systems to deliver malware.
Botnets and Peer-to-Peer Networks
Statistics: Cisco’s Annual Cybersecurity Report reported a rise in malware originating from botnets and peer-to-peer networks in 2023, with these networks being used to distribute ransomware and steal data (Cisco Annual Cybersecurity Report).
2024 Update: The use of botnets and decentralized networks persisted, with advancements in these networks making it more challenging to trace and dismantle malicious operations.
Email and Messaging Platforms
Statistics: Microsoft noted that email remains a primary distribution method for malware, with a significant percentage of threats originating from email attachments and links (Microsoft Security Intelligence).
2024 Update: Email-based attacks remained prevalent, with increased sophistication in targeting and evasion techniques.
Sources:
Anti-Phishing Working Group (APWG): APWG Phishing Activity Trends Report
Symantec (NortonLifeLock): Symantec Internet Security Threat Report
Verizon: Verizon DBIR
Exploit Database: Exploit Database
CVE Details: CVE Details
Cisco: Cisco Annual Cybersecurity Report
Microsoft: Microsoft Security Intelligence
These sources provide a comprehensive view of the evolving origins of malware and the methods used by cybercriminals to exploit systems and distribute malicious software.
Free Tools vs. Paid Subscriptions
Several free tools offer supplemental protection and real-time scanning, although they often lack the comprehensive features of paid subscriptions:
Malwarebytes Free: Offers on-demand scanning and removal of malware, but lacks real-time protection found in the premium version.
Avira Free Security: Provides basic antivirus protection and some additional tools, but without the full suite of features available in Avira Prime.
Kaspersky Security Cloud Free: Includes essential antivirus protection and automatic updates, but without the advanced features of Kaspersky’s paid tiers.
While free tools can provide adequate protection for users with minimal needs, paid subscriptions generally offer a more comprehensive security suite, including real-time protection, firewall features, and additional security tools like VPNs and password managers.
This guide should provide a clear overview of the best security software options available in 2024, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and operating system. For the most up-to-date reviews and performance scores, consider visiting sites like AV-Test and AV-Comparatives.
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