Which antivirus to choose: comparison by speed, protection, and price

Microsoft Defender
Built-in and effective protection for Windows users, starting with Windows Vista. It includes a wide range of features to prevent threats and ensure data security.

Key features:
— real-time protection against viruses and phishing
— cloud-based protection for rapid threat detection
— restricts malicious software access to system files and services
— firewall controls incoming and outgoing connections
— SmartScreen checks the safety of applications and files before downloading.

PRO32 Ultimate Security
Provides protection against cyber threats, including ransomware and zero-day attacks, while regular updates do not reduce device performance, and optimized operation does not overload the system. Parental control is included.

Key features:
— detection and blocking of cyber threats
— data backup creation
— webcam protection against unauthorized access
— safe browsing and prevention of online attacks
— safeguarding sensitive data
— Wi‑Fi network analysis and home network control.

Price: from $22.45/ ≈ 12,000 tenge per year for three devices.

Dr.Web Security Space
Offers reliable protection against viruses, trojans, and spyware with minimal impact on system performance. It is designed for both individual users and small businesses, with a focus on countering enterprise-level threats.

Key features:
— protection against viruses, encryptors, trojans, exploits, and other malware
— blocking of phishing sites and fake pages
— prevention of hacker attacks
— protection against data leaks and surveillance via microphone or camera
— restriction of access to removable drives
— parental control to block unwanted websites.

Price: from $25.11/ ≈ 13,000 tenge per year for one device.

McAfee Total Protection
Offers effective protection against malware and phishing attacks. However, McAfee does not provide web browser protection, the antivirus can heavily load the system during scanning, and disabling auto-updates limits the functionality of some features.

Key features:
— protection against malware and phishing attacks
— two-way firewall for controlling network connections
— secure file deletion using a shredder
— unlimited VPN in advanced versions
— enhanced privacy protection.

Price: from $30.83/ ≈ 16,000 tenge per year for 10 devices.

Bitdefender Total Security
Stands out for its lightweight and unobtrusive nature, including advanced features. High effectiveness in detecting malware. However, active background scanning can affect system performance, which is important to consider for users with less powerful PCs.

Key features:
— protection against viruses, trojans, and spyware
— webcam protection and blocking of phishing sites
— web filtering and protection against online threats
— safeguarding sensitive data
— minimal system load.

Price: from $34.68/ ≈ 18,000 tenge per year for five devices.

Comodo Internet Security Pro
Provides comprehensive protection, preventing viral attacks before they penetrate the device. The antivirus recognizes viruses, trojans, spyware, and other threats by checking files and internet traffic in real time.

Key features:
— running unknown files in a virtual environment
— automatic blocking of suspicious programs
— disabling notifications in game mode
— detection and removal of spyware
— 24/7 remote support.

Price: from $39.99/ ≈ 21,000 tenge per year for three devices.

Kaspersky Total Security
Offers high-level protection for a safe and convenient digital life. 24/7 technical support is ready to help resolve issues with viruses and malware.

Key features:
— real-time virus protection
— device performance optimization
— secure payments via a special browser
— fast and secure internet connection without restrictions
— regular checks for data leaks
— protection of digital identity from remote access and document theft
— reliable password manager and secure storage
— detection and removal of viruses.

Price: from $40.46/ ≈ 21,000 tenge per year for five devices.