7 Top Picks
4 Reviewers
30 Hours of Research
30 Options Considered
Investing in the best internet security software will ensure that you are safe. But with so many to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? And what does all his lingo about anti malware, spyware protection, VPN safe browsing and firewall mean, anyway? Don’t worry, I’m going to help you so that you understand these terms.
My goal is to inform you on the different types of internet security solution so that you end up with the best virus protection based on your personal needs. After weighing your wants and needs, you will be able to confidently protect yourself from potential cyber-threats. That also includes your phone safety, so getting a virus protection for android is recommended, too.
3 Top Internet Security Software
1. [Best Overall] McAfee Total Protection
4.9/5
If you want comprehensive protection, McAfee has your back. As one of the top antivirus software companies on the planet, you can trust that you and your family will be well-protected from online threats.
With a wealth of protective features, you are sure to have a safe browsing experience.
2. [Best For The Money] Norton 360 Deluxe
4.8/5
Norton 360 combines the familiar Norton protection with LifeLock’s deep security. The result is a hugely popular and effective premium security suite that ensures plenty of protection against online attacks.
With Norton 360, you get excellent malware protection. I appreciate how well this software detects potential threats and eliminates them without issue.
3. [Best For The Protection] Total AV
4.7/5
Total AV comes with an impressive array of protection. I like the many useful features that come with this software. If you’re concerned about browsing the internet and the many threats that exist online, you’ll want to give Total AV a look.
As one of the best antivirus for Windows 10, you can rest easy knowing that your activity and personal data are safe and secure.
Internet Security Software - Top-Rated Options to Date
In the field of internet security, there is a lot to absorb. And some of it can be pretty overwhelming if you aren’t hip to what’s been going on. If you’ve been out of the loop on the latest advancements in malware removal and other protective features, fear not.
We’re going to get through this together. I’m going to do my best to break things down in the simplest of terms so that you know exactly what to look for in your internet security solution. We have covered reliable network security software and network protection here.
I want you to invest in the best internet security solution, and I hope the following information and in-depth reviews help you do just that. Maybe you need antivirus software specifically for Mac or Windows 10? I covered those as well.
Your safety and security are important. With the right research into the top antivirus and security software from independent testing labs score, you will be well on your way to fighting the good fight against online threats and attacks.
To begin, let’s talk about why you need to protect yourself against these things.
Why is internet security important?
Now more than ever, thieves are developing new and clever ways of stealing your money. And let’s not mince words. That’s what it all comes down to. If a thief attempts to steal your personal data, it’s so that they can get into your bank account and wipe it out.
If there’s a phishing attempt on you (more on that in a moment), the goal is to get your online credentials so that they can log into your bank account and clean it out.
If you get a bogus email with an offer that sounds too good to be true, it’s all in an attempt to siphon money from you.
Identity theft is big business, and you are the target. Stealing your sensitive data gives thieves the ability to use everything you’ve worked hard to get for their own personal gain.
Thank God there’s such a thing as internet security with anti-theft feature or identity theft protection. Because without it, fraudsters would never again have to work an honest job.
But with all the talk of antivirus software and internet security feature, how can you be sure you’re investing in the right shield?
What’s the difference between “antivirus” and “internet security”?
It really comes down to comprehensive coverage and shield. With an antivirus software, you’re getting just that: shield against viruses for all your devices.
Internet security suites, on the other hand, protect you from a litany of threats and attacks. Let’s take a moment to see just what it is that you can expect to get from security suites.
Depending on the internet security suite that you invest in, you may also find additional shield. Not all suites include the same features. The following, for example, are often considered bonus features:
Protection against malicious email attachments |
Protection against ransomware |
Firewall protectors |
Parental control |
Anti-keyloggers |
As you can see, these suites offer a whole host of shield and then some. It’s important to weigh your needs before you invest in any one internet security suite.
Best Internet Security Software Reviews
1. [Best Overall] McAfee Total Protection
4.9/5
If you want comprehensive shield, McAfee has your back. As one of the top antivirus software companies on the planet, you can trust that you and your family will be well-protected from online threats.
With a wealth of protective features, you are sure to have a safe browsing experience. From antivirus protection to parental controls, McAfee Total Protection provides you with everything you need to stay safe.
Features:
- Some of the best mobile antivirus protection to ensure that your family is secure
- Safe Kids parental controls makes it easy to monitor and manage your children’s web use
- Identity protection ensures that your personal data remains safe
- With limitless VPNs to secure your internet traffic, you can safely browse the internet in confidence
- The password manager simplifies your many passwords and logins
- Advanced file encryption keeps your data secure
If you have a family that uses different operating systems, Total Protection is a great investment. It covers all the major platforms so you can be sure that everyone is equally protected.
I’ve always maintained that McAfee is some of the best virus protection for PC. And Total Protection takes it to the next level with mobile devices protection, to boot.
I like the VPN feature on this antivirus program, as it allows you to do all of your online activity incognito. If you’re fearful of prying eyes looking into what you’re doing on the internet, this is a must-have feature.
McAfee Total Protection Technical Specifications: | Header |
|---|---|
Protection type | Security suite |
Secure VPN Service | Yes |
Parental controls | Yes |
Phishing protection | Yes |
File encryption | Yes |
Password manager | Yes |
File shredder is another handy utility that comes with Total Shield. Afraid of someone checking out your deleted files? File Shredder ensures that is no longer a concern, as it completely destroys your deleted files for good.
Small business owners will want to take notice, as McAfee allows you to buy up to 10 licenses to protect your computers at work. Now you don’t have to worry about sensitive customer information getting into the wrong hands.
Your online banking is equally protected thanks to the bank-grade encryption. This allows you to perform online transactions safely and securely.
Parents, you will be pleased to know that Total shield comes with parental controls to ensure that your kids are safe and/or up to no good. You can keep a watchful eye on their online activity and nip it in the bud if there’s a breach of trust.
The only issue I found with this internet security software is that there are no parental controls for Mac users. So if your child has a Mac, you won’t be able to monitor or manage their internet use.
Aside from that, McAfee Total Protection is an excellent choice and is sure to serve you well in your fight against online threats.
McAfee Total Protection Pros
McAfee Total Protection Cons
2. [Best For The Money] Norton 360 Deluxe
4.8/5
Norton 360 Deluxe combines the familiar Norton protection with LifeLock’s deep security. The result is a hugely popular and effective security suite that ensures plenty of shield against online attacks.
With Norton 360, you get excellent malware protection. I appreciate how well this software detects potential threats and eliminates them without issue.
Features:
- Affordable plan options make it easy to find the best package for your needs
- Parental controls feature a wide range of features to keep your kids safe
- Password Manager makes it easy to keep track of all of your logins
- Unlimited VPN (Virtual Private Network) ensures that your online activity is always secure
- Customer service makes it easy to get help when you need it
You’re also getting incredible firewall protection to ensure that outside courses can’t access your internet connection. A firewall is a nice plus, as not all suites include this handy feature.
It keeps track of your software, too. If anything suspicious is discovered, you will be altered to the potential threat and be able to address it accordingly.
Online backup is another beneficial addition that makes sure you have a plan to fall back on if there’s ever a loss of data. You can choose anywhere from 10 to 75GB of online backup storage.
Norton 360’s URL protection is a much-needed feature that keeps you safe while you’re online. No more worrying about stumbling onto harmful websites that are out to trick you into giving up your logins and passwords.
Norton 360 Deluxe Technical Specifications: | Header |
|---|---|
Protection type | Security suite |
No-limit VPN | Yes |
Firewall protection | Yes |
Phishing protection | Yes |
Secure VPN | Yes |
Online backup | Yes |
Parental controls come included with Norton, as well. Now it’s easier than ever to manage your children’s online activity. There is plenty of customization available that ensures each child gets the right level of defense.
Like some security suites, a password manager comes standard with Norton 360. You can easily keep track of all of your logins for easy management. I like that it lets you change all passwords at the same time in case there’s a breach of data.
The faster you can get to your logins, the sooner you can foil cyber-thieves plans to access your sensitive accounts.
There are different plans available to you that make it easy to find the package that best suits your needs. I’m quite fond of the pricing structure, as well. It’s reasonably priced to ensure that everyone can protect themselves without breaking the bank.
Norton 360 Deluxe Pros
Norton 360 Deluxe Cons
3. [Best For Protection] Total AV
4.7/5
Total AV comes with an impressive array of shield. I like the many useful features that come with this software. If you’re concerned about browsing the internet and the many threats that exist online, you’ll want to give Total AV a look.
As one of the best antivirus products for Windows 10, you can rest easy knowing that your activity and personal information are safe and secure.
Features:
- Incredible virus detection hit-rate give you the peace of mind to browse the web
- Access to robust customer service to ensure you have help when you need it
- Browser Manager lets you easily manage your web browser’s history
- The tune-up utility ensures that your PC continues to run smoothly
- User-friendly interface makes this a great investment for novices
No longer do you have to worry about running into harmful websites, as Total AV blocks access to harmful URLs. And if you need a hand keeping track of all of your logins and passwords, Total AV comes with a password management feature.
I found this to be a huge benefit in keeping your extensive list of unique logins in one easy-to-use place. There’s also incredibly deep encryption that adds an extra layer of shield against online baddies.
During my AV test, I found Total AV to be a powerhouse when it comes to detecting malicious software. If something is discovered, this Windows antivirus ensures that it will not harm your computer.
Looking for an antivirus suite that comes with PC tune-up? Total AV has you covered there, as well. Now you can perform tune-ups on your computer to ensure that it is running at its very best.
Total AV Technical Specifications: | Header |
|---|---|
Protection type | Security suite |
Real-time antivirus protection | Yes |
Cloud scanning | Yes |
Phishing protection | Yes |
Web protection | Yes |
Password manager | Yes |
Beginners who have trouble with internet security suites will definitely want to give this suite a look. It is very user-friendly and makes PC management a breeze.
Total AV gives you an amazing range in what you can do with your online activity. Not only is your browsing history safe, but you can wipe out all traces of your activity with ease. This ensures that your history can’t be used for nefarious purposes.
If you’d like try out Total AV, there is a free antivirus software trial available. With this version, you can browse the web in safety and monitor threats on your computer.
Total AV Pros
Total AV Cons
4.6/5
Avira Antivirus Pro is another comprehensive security suite that covers a lot of bases and keeps all of your popular devices secure from outside threats.
I like that Avira made sure to offer a wide range of support for all platforms, ensuring that you and your family have the protection they need for a safer browsing experience.
Features:
- Slick interface is a boon for beginners who have trouble with antivirus software
- Avira doesn’t keep logs of your activity, giving you another layer of shield
- Shield is in real-time, ensuring that new threats are handled accordingly
- Password manager makes it easy to track and secure your many logins
- iPhone users will appreciate the rich shield for iOS devices
If you’re in the market for a security suite that is easy to use and doesn’t take up a lot of space, Avira Antivirus Pro is just for you. This program takes only mere megabytes to install, leaving you with lightweight yet powerful shield against the bad guys.
You get access to highly-effective optimization tools that work wonders in boosting the system performance of your devices, whether it be Windows PC, iOS, or Android.
You get a handy password manager, too, so you never have to worry about your logins or who might be accessing them. It’s safe, secure, a robust in its protection.
Avira Antivirus Pro Technical Specifications: | |
|---|---|
Protection type | Internet Security suite |
File encryption | Yes |
Game booster mode | Yes |
File shredding | Yes |
Network traffic manager | Yes |
File recovery | Yes |
One of the biggest threats software faces is not being properly updated. Thieves try to take advantage of this and use the software’s outdated status as a way to exploit you and your money.
Avira takes care of this by giving you an auto-update feature that regularly checks all of your programs and updates them accordingly. No more loopholes, no more threats.
I like the cost of this internet security suite. It’s affordable, easy to use, and comes with a host of beneficial features. Give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.
Avira Antivirus Pro Pros
Avira Antivirus Pro Cons
5. Malwarebytes
4.5/5
Features:
- Incredible malware protection ensures that you are safe from the latest threats
- Integrates easily across all major platforms to ensure everyone is secure
- Several plans make it easy to get the coverage you need to stay safe
- User-friendly interface makes antivirus management a breeze
- Robust protection that keeps you safe at all times
If you want some of the best protection against malware, Malwarebytes is a solid buy that works hard to keep you safe from attacks. I like how effective this software is, as it focuses on these threats and eliminates them without issue.
Back in the day, Malwarebytes was pretty limited in its protection.
All that has changed for the better, as it is now a complete Internet security suite that comes equipped with many layers of effective protection.
Thanks to malicious URL blocking, you no longer have to fear running into malicious websites that could be trying to phish your sensitive information.
Malwarebytes takes things a step further by incorporating top-notch ransomware protection. It is no effective and refined that it even catches zero-day threats. These are viruses that have yet to be discovered and logged for review.
Malwarebytes Technical Specifications: | Header |
|---|---|
Protection type | Internet Security suite |
Malicious URL blocking | Yes |
Antivirus protection | Yes |
Exploit protection | Yes |
Malware protection | Yes |
Ransomware protection | Yes |
Another huge bonus with Malwarebytes is that it acts against programs that act suspiciously. If anything is detected that seems out of the ordinary, preventive action is taken to keep anything from harming your operating system.
You can then decide what needs to be done. This is a welcome addition that will serve you well if you happen to interact with a host of new programs on a daily basis.
If you use different platforms regularly, Malwarebytes integrates well in to all of them. This ensures that everyone in your family or in your employment is safe and secure in their online activity.
Need to protect a small team of people or family members? Malwarebytes has plans that cover up to 10 devices, so you can rest easy knowing everyone has the protection they need against potential attacks.
Malwarebytes Pros
Malwarebytes Cons
4.4/5
Features:
- Malicious URLs are blocked to ensure you have a safe browsing experience
- Real-time protection ensures new threats are addressed accordingly
- Ultra-inexpensive so that everyone can get protection on the cheap
- Easy user interface makes this great option for first-timers
- Malware focus keeps you safe from harmful activity
Search and Destroy has been around for a while now, building a reputation as being one of the better malware detection and endpoint protection programs on the market.
So, how did it do during my time with it?
I was quite impressed with its ability to detect malicious behavior and put a stop to potential attacks on my operating system.
The only real issue with Spybot is that doesn’t offer the same level of protection against other viruses and threats. But then again, it’s not really designed to. You see, Spybot Search and Destroy is intended to protect against a small number of threats.
If you want things like firewall protection, password manager, and so on, you will need to invest in one of the other security suites that I reviewed. A firewall will ensure that you have seamless protection against all viruses and attacks.
Spybot Search and Destroy Technical Specifications: | Header |
|---|---|
Protection type | Malware protection |
Real-time protection | Yes |
Antivirus protection | Yes |
Malware protection | Yes |
Spyware protection | Yes |
Malicious URL blocking | Yes |
I found Spybot Search and Destroy to take up a lot of precious operating system resources. So if your machine is running on the slow side, you’d do best to invest in something like Avira. That software takes up much less space and uses fewer resources.
I will say that Spybot is a boss at searching out infections and does a stellar job of eliminating such threats. It’s designed to do what it does really well, but it can’t touch the other security suites found elsewhere among the reviews.
If your machine can handle the resource-hungry behavior of Search and Destroy, you might want to give it a try. It’s incredibly inexpensive, costing a fraction of what some of the more robust antivirus software will run you.
Based on its price alone, I say it’s worth the download. If nothing else just to see if it is capable of meeting your needs. If you don’t like it, you’re not out much. At all. Plus, you’re protected for a full year for next to nothing in price.
Spybot Search and Destroy Pros
Spybot Search and Destroy Cons
4.3/5
Features:
- Parental controls are incredibly deep and work well in protecting your kids
- Low price makes it easy to protect your family from potential attacks
- Blocks malicious URLs to ensure your safety while browsing
- High compatibility keeps all devices protected
- Rich protection stops possible spying
Bitdefender’s Total Security is one of the best security suites I tested. It has all the bells and whistles you’ve come to expect from these kinds of suites. There are plenty of bonus features, too, keeping you on the cutting-edge of internet security suites.
Parental controls are one of Bitdefender’s best features, giving parents total control over their children’s online activity. We’re talking some really deep protection here.
Have you ever been concerned that some creep is watching your kids through their PC webcam? Bitdefender takes care of that potentiality by monitoring the function of their webcam.
It blocks any outside sources from accessing it, even going so far as to do the same for the computer microphone. Now that’s rich protection! These are things I appreciate as a parent, and you likely will, too.
Bitdefender Total Security Technical Specifications: | Header |
|---|---|
Protection type | Internet Security suite |
Wi-Fi scanning | Yes |
Secure file deletion | Yes |
Banking protection | Yes |
Firewall protection | Yes |
Webcam protection | Yes |
If you don’t think these things are a possibility, I urge you to do some research on such matters. What you find will probably disturb you. Take a stand against these threats now so that there are no chances of your children being exposed to such behavior.
Bitdefender works like a charm with all of your operating systems and platforms, giving you the peace of mind that your family is safe at all times. I will say that found iOS support to be a bit limited compared to the other operating systems, but at least there is enough protection to ensure your safety.
Bitdefender is currently available at a must-get price. I recommend you at least give it a try to see if it meets your needs for family protection. I think you will be very pleased with what you find.
It’s easy to use and highly effective. You’re sure to find something you like.
Bitdefender Total Security Pros
Bitdefender Total Security Cons
Firewall Choices
A firewall is important for a couple of reasons. Firewall keeps an eye on applications to ensure that they aren’t improperly using your internet connection.
And perhaps most importantly, firewalls work to prevent outside sources from accessing your connection. When most of us think of firewall, this is what we envision.
If you are satisfied with your current operating system’s built-in firewall (assuming it has one), you can safely opt for an internet security suite that doesn’t include a firewall feature.
Windows 10, for example, has an effective firewall at the ready. firewall does not, however, keep watch of your applications. If you’re concerned with this becoming an issue, spring for internet security that handles this aspect.
Squelch Some Spam
When is the last time you received junk mail in your inbox? I would wager that it’s few and far between. If you’re using a service like Gmail, spam is likely not an issue for you.
If your email provider currently fails to separate spam from valid messages, look for the best internet security suites that incorporates email integration.
If you’re not used to having spam taken care of for you, your email experience will be akin to Dorothy stepping into the colorful Land of Oz
Phishing and Privacy Protection
To those unfamiliar with a phishing scam, this is when a fake website tricks you into thinking it is legitimate.
It could look like your bank’s login page, for example, but in actuality be a phishing attempt.
Once you enter in your credentials, the scammer will access to your bank account, often wiping it out in record time.
Fortunately, the brainchildren behind the best internet security software give you the protection you need against such scams. When you stumble onto a fraudulent site, the software will either warn you or outright block you from accessing it.
This is just a small part of privacy protection that is included in some of the best antivirus software suites. If you run a small business, you’re going to need more than just phishing protection to keep you and your customers safe.
Some suites come with keylogger protection that ensures no one is trying to spy on your keystrokes. These are usually planted first-hand, but it doesn’t hurt to be cautious.
Other privacy protection is in place to secure your credit card information and bank-related data.
What About Parental Control?
Not all internet security suites come with parental controls. It’s important to research each to ensure that you’re getting one that does if that’s what you’re after.
If you’re looking for the best way to keep an eye on your kids’ online activity, parental control is definitely the way to go. Many suites give you the ability to set times when your children can access the internet, as well as what websites they can and cannot see.
As a parent, I feel compelled to advise that parental control is an absolute must. Even if your child isn’t actively trying to access inappropriate material, I’ve found that it has a way of finding them.
Parental control is your best defense against the trash on the internet.
Added Backup and Tune-Up Utilities
Even if you think your computer is safe from an attack, disaster often strikes when we least expect it. You don’t want to risk losing all of your files and having to start over.
With a backup feature, you can safely store everything in a separate drive on the cloud storage, thereby ensuring that your files are secure in the event that there’s an issue.
If you’re investing in an internet security suite for this feature specifically, you want to make sure that it doesn’t offer anything you can’t already get online for free.
Aside from backup software utility, you might also be interested in tuning up your PC. What does this have to do with internet security, you ask? Not only is it a nice feature that stands to potentially make your computer use more enjoyable, tune-ups often allow you to clear out browsing history and temporary internet files.
Clever cyber-thieves like to access this information in an attempt to steal personal information and the like. While most security suites provide this feature, it’s a nice backup to have in place just in case yours doesn’t.
Mac, Android, and iOS Security
Back in the day, people used just a singular operating system. But in the modern era, you might have a Windows-based computer and an Apple iPhone. Or a Mac computer and an Android smartphone.
Maybe you strictly use Windows devices and Android (sorry, Linux). But what happens when your spouse and kids use Macs and iOS?
For this, you need Windows security and Apple protection. Some of the best antivirus software for Windows 10 also includes the best phone antivirus for Android and iOS. These comprehensive packages ensure that everyone in your family or small business is protected from online threats, regardless of the platform they are using.
FAQs
1. Which Internet security and antivirus is the best?
Here are the Top Internet Security Software's that we can recommend.
1. McAfee Total Protection - If you want comprehensive protection, McAfee has your back. As one of the top antivirus software companies on the planet, you can trust that you and your family will be well-protected from online threats.
With a wealth of protective features, you are sure to have a safe browsing experience.
2. Norton 360 Deluxe - Norton 360 combines the familiar Norton protection with LifeLock’s deep security. The result is a hugely popular and effective security suite that ensures plenty of protection against online attacks.
With Norton 360 , you get excellent malware protection, phishing and dark web monitoring and protection. I appreciate how well this software detects potential threats and eliminates them without issue.
3. Total AV - Total AV comes with an impressive array of protection. I like the many useful features that come with this software. If you’re concerned about browsing the internet and the many threats that exist online, you’ll want to give Total AV a look. As one of the best antivirus for Windows 10, you can rest easy knowing that your activity and personal information are safe and secure.
2. Do I need both antivirus and Internet security?
Yes, they are both important. Antivirus protection is required, whereas Internet Security protects against Internet threats. Both alert the user to potentially dangerous websites, but Internet Security automatically blocks the URLs.
3. Does McAfee slow down computer?
No, McAfee does not slow down computers. In fact, it is designed to help protect your computer from viruses and other online threats.
4. How often should you do a full scan on your computer?
It's generally a good idea to do a full scan of your computer on a regular basis, especially if you use it for important tasks. However, the frequency of scans will vary depending on your individual needs and the security software you're using.
5. Which is better McAfee or Norton?
McAfee and Norton are both well-known brands for antivirus software. They offer similar features, but there are some differences. McAfee is a little more expensive, but it has a higher detection rate. Norton is a little more user-friendly, but it doesn't have as many features. In the end, it comes down to personal preference.
6. Is Bitdefender Internet Security worth?
Bitdefender Internet Security is a great option for those looking for comprehensive online security. The software offers a wide range of features, including malware protection, anti-phishing, and parental controls. It's also very easy to use, making it a good choice for both novice and experienced users. Overall, Bitdefender Internet Security is a great value for the price.
7. Is Kaspersky Internet Security better than antivirus?
Kaspersky Internet Security is a comprehensive security suite that provides protection against viruses, spyware, and other online threats. It also includes features like a firewall, parental controls, and a password manager. While antivirus software is designed to protect your computer from malware, Kaspersky Internet Security provides additional protection that is not found in most antivirus programs.
