This means it is always actively looking for threats and stops them before they can infect your computer. Malwarebytes Premium has real-time protection. You still get the invaluable removal tools of the free version. Malwarebytes Premium is a paid platform and is more of a traditional antivirus program. While the Malwarebytes free program is a great, on-demand malware removal tool, there is a paid version available. It works very well with Microsoft Defender and, when running, will scan and find just about all threats loose on your system.įor a little more protection, we recommend also installing another antivirus program, like Bitdefender or Avast, both of which are a bit better at detecting threats so your system doesn't become infected in the first place. If you have click-happy kids, we definitely recommend an extra layer of protection, which is where Malwarebytes comes in. It's better than nothing, but it is best for those who understand the risks of clicking random links, or who are cautious of their online happenings so as to avoid threats. While it is free, Microsoft Defender also doesn't have the best scores when it comes to malware detection. File backup is great for restoring your computer back to its original state after a malware attack, especially one involving ransomware. The firewall is helpful if you're connected to a public network so that hackers and snoops can't sneak in and see what's stored on your device. There's also webcam monitoring, to ensure no one, or any program taps into it without permission.Ī firewall and file backup is also included. It has web filtering and parent controls, which are especially helpful for families with kids. Microsoft Defender comes with your Windows operating system with most of its protection tools already on by default.

(Image credit: Shutterstock) Microsoft Defender Malwarebytes easily can be used as a backup to gather missed threats while you still take advantage of Avast's other security and privacy tools. This is especially important if you choose to use one of Avast's free versions that tend to let some files slip through more easily than its paid platforms. Avast One, the all-in-one solution, also includes identity theft protections like medical ID and password use alerts.Īvast is one of the best programs when it comes to tandem running. This antivirus has a secured quarantine folder where you can look further into suspicious files before permanently deleting them. Any suspicious files are automatically sent to Avast for further analysis to see if it is a true threat or just a weird program. This feature recognizes when you visit or start an online game and minimizes the resources it uses so you have all the power you need to play without lag or drag.Īvast keeps an eye on your network connections and alerts you of anything suspicious, from possible data leaks to apps that show unusual behavior. This software is one of the best for gamers because of its innovative game mode. It's been around for a long time, and even its free version is super powerful at stopping most malware. AvastĪvast security solutions are some of the most recognized and downloaded worldwide. While other antivirus programs will require you to uninstall them first before continuing with the Malwarebytes installation, Bitdefender simply takes a backseat for a moment while the malware removal tool does its job. Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. Get the hottest deals available in your inbox plus news, reviews, opinion, analysis and more from the TechRadar team. Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox You will get a message from Bitdefender during the download and installation of Malwarebytes double checking that you want to run this second program. Even its most basic version includes these features while its top-tiered plan includes identity theft protection.īitdefender prefers to be the only antivirus program running, but it doesn't have a problem running in tandem with Malwarebytes. Other features included with Bitdefender are a file shredder, one of the best VPN services, and extra protections for when you are shopping or banking online. You can still watch movies and play online games during deep scans and not experience buffering or lag. This antivirus solution doesn't take up a lot of space and won't slow down your computer while it runs. It recognizes malicious links, websites, and files and does a really good job of stopping them before they have a chance to infect your computer. Bitdefender has been at the top of the antivirus industry for years, and pretty much sets the standard for other companies to follow.

Malwarebytes premium version