Every year, many antivirus vendors boast about their performance, but how do you know which software really offers the best protection? The tests carried out by AV-Comparatives provide an objective, independent assessment of the solutions available on the market. This recognized organization regularly assesses the performance of cybersecurity solutions in terms of protection, system impact and threat detection. In this article, we analyze the best free and paid antivirus products to help you find the solution best suited to your needs.
- ESET HOME Security 2025: Voted Antivirus of the Year
- Avast Premium 2025 : The benchmark for free antivirus software
- Bitdefender Total Security 2025: The most award-winning antivirus
- AVG Internet Security 2025 : Comprehensive protection
- Kaspersky Standard: An antivirus under the microscope
- Microsoft Defender : The integrated antivirus since Windows 7
- AV-Comparatives: Which antivirus stands out this year?
- How to choose the right antivirus?
Important information
- ESET has been named Antivirus of the Year 2024 for Home Users by AV-Comparatives.
- Microsoft Defender is one of the best free antivirus programs for home users.
- Avast Free antivirus remains an excellent free and paid antivirus product
This comparison is entirely independent of any publisher or antivirus vendor, and is based on objective tests sourced at the end of the article.
ESET HOME Security 2025: Voted Antivirus of the Year
ESET HOME Security 2025 is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution designed to protect computers, smartphones and tablets against online threats. Thanks to its multi-layered technology, it offers advanced protection against all viruses, ransomware, phishing attacks and other malware. Its optimized scanning engine ensures minimal impact on system performance.
💡 Did you know? This European antivirus protects the infrastructures of the French National Gendarmerie thanks to its recognized expertise in cybersecurity.
This security suite integrates essential features such as online banking protection, webcam access control and home network analysis to identify potential vulnerabilities. Its secure browsing mode enhances data confidentiality by encrypting sensitive communications, while its ESET HOME application enables remote security management of multiple devices via an intuitive interface.
Available in a range of subscription packages, ESET HOME Security 2025 adapts to the needs of individuals and families, with the ability to protect multiple devices simultaneously. Simplified installation and automatic updates ensure continuous protection, making this solution a reliable choice for securing your digital environment.
Avast Premium 2025 : The benchmark for free antivirus software
Avast Premium Security is an advanced cybersecurity suite designed to offer comprehensive protection against online threats. It includes a high-performance antivirus, an intelligent firewall and a shield against ransomware and phishing. The solution also secures webcam and online banking transactions, guaranteeing the confidentiality of users’ sensitive data.
Available for Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, Avast Premium Security offers packages tailored to individual and family needs, with coverage for up to 10 devices. Its real-time scanning engine detects and blocks malware before it can cause damage, while features such as the file shredder provide additional protection for personal data.
Easy to install and configure, Avast Premium Security offers an intuitive interface and automatic updates to maintain optimum security. Thanks to its dedicated technical support, users benefit from rapid assistance in the event of problems, making this solution a reliable choice for secure browsing on all devices.
Bitdefender Total Security 2025: The most award-winning antivirus
Bitdefender Total Security is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution that protects devices against a wide range of digital threats, including viruses, ransomware, spyware and network attacks. Thanks to real-time monitoring and proactive analysis, this software effectively detects and neutralizes suspicious behavior before it compromises user data. Its advanced firewall, combined with an intrusion prevention system, enhances security by blocking unauthorized connections and protecting the confidentiality of personal information.
In addition to its antivirus protection, Bitdefender Total Security includes privacy features such as a password manager, integrated VPN and advanced parental controls. It monitors webcam and microphone access to prevent spying, and features a vulnerability scanner to identify potential security flaws on the system. Its impact on performance is kept to a minimum, thanks to intelligent optimization technologies that ensure smooth operation even during in-depth analysis.
Compatible with Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, Bitdefender Total Security offers multi-device protection, ideal for users wishing to secure all their devices with a single solution. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to manage security settings, while regular updates ensure effective defense against the latest threats. With a 30-day free trial available, it stands out as a reliable choice for those looking for high-performance, comprehensive cybersecurity.
AVG Internet Security 2025 : Comprehensive protection
AVG Internet Security 2025 is an advanced security suite designed to offer comprehensive protection against online threats such as viruses, ransomware, spyware and phishing attempts. With an enhanced firewall, anti-phishing shield and webcam protection, it guarantees the security of personal data and online transactions. Its artificial intelligence-based detection engine identifies and blocks threats in real time, ensuring proactive defense against cyberattacks.
In addition to its antivirus protection, AVG Internet Security includes several optimization and security tools, such as an update manager to correct flaws in installed software, and an in-depth analysis of suspicious attachments and links. It also features a lock function for sensitive files, preventing unauthorized access by malware or third-party users. Compatible with Windows and macOS, it can be adapted to the needs of home users and professionals alike.
Available on a subscription basis, AVG Internet Security 2025 offers a free 30-day trial period, enabling users to test its features before committing themselves. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to configure and manage security settings, even for novice users. For even more comprehensive protection, it can be combined with AVG Secure VPN and AVG TuneUp, optimizing online privacy and system performance.
Kaspersky Standard: An antivirus under the microscope
Kaspersky Standard Anti-Virus is a computer security solution designed to protect devices against digital threats such as viruses, spyware and ransomware. It offers real-time protection thanks to advanced scanning technology, detecting and neutralizing malicious files before they affect the system. Its powerful detection engine draws on artificial intelligence and regularly updated databases to ensure proactive defense against new cyberthreats.
The software also includes banking protection features to secure online transactions, as well as system performance optimization tools. It is compatible with Windows, macOS and some Linux versions, offering extensive coverage for various types of device. Easy to install and configure, Kaspersky Standard Anti-Virus is suitable for both home users and small businesses looking for a reliable, affordable cybersecurity solution.
Despite its many qualities, the use of Kaspersky can be controversial due to recommendations issued by the ANSSI (Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d’information) and certain cybersecurity agencies in Europe and the USA.
Nevertheless, the brand continues to be recognized for its effectiveness, regularly receiving awards in independent laboratory tests. Its excellent value for money makes it a popular solution with users looking for high-performance, discreet protection against online threats.
Microsoft Defender : The integrated antivirus since Windows 7
Microsoft Defender is a cybersecurity solution integrated into Windows and offered as part of Microsoft 365 subscriptions. Designed to offer effective protection against online threats, it includes antivirus, ransomware detection as well as phishing and malware protection. Thanks to regular updates and artificial intelligence, Microsoft Defender analyzes files and connections in real time to identify and block potential threats before they affect the system.
Available on Windows, macOS, Android and iOS, Microsoft Defender also offers centralized device management via a single application, enabling users to monitor the security of their equipment. For enterprises, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint offers advanced incident detection and response (EDR) capabilities to protect infrastructures from cyberattacks. It integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft solutions such as Azure and Intune for comprehensive security management.
Constantly evolving, Microsoft Defender has recently integrated additional features including an AI-based scareware blocker in Microsoft Edge and identity theft monitoring to alert users if their personal data has been compromised. With its proactive approach and seamless integration into the Windows ecosystem, Microsoft Defender has established itself as a high-performance, affordable security solution for individuals and small businesses alike.
AV-Comparatives: Which antivirus stands out this year?
Every year, AV-Comparatives, an independent organization specializing in the evaluation of cybersecurity solutions, publishes its test results and awards prizes to the best antivirus products on the market. These awards are based on a series of rigorous tests covering different aspects of protection, from real-time threat detection to impact on system performance.
Product of the Year 2024
This distinction is awarded to the antivirus that achieves the best results in all tests carried out during the year. In 2024, ESET was awarded the title of Product of the Year, confirming its overall performance in terms of protection and reliability.
This title is awarded to software that has demonstrated exemplary consistency in terms of threat protection, low performance impact and reduced false positive rate.
Top-Rated Products
In addition to the Product of the Year winner, several solutions also stand out for their overall performance. In 2024, Avast, AVG, Bitdefender and Kaspersky were among the top-rated products.
These software products performed very well in a number of tests, without necessarily achieving first place in all categories.
Protection test under real-life conditions
This test evaluates the effectiveness of an antivirus against Internet threats under real-life conditions. It measures the software’s ability to block attacks while minimizing false positives and unnecessary user interaction.
| Ranking | Antivirus |
|---|---|
| 1 | Avast, AVG, Avira and McAfee |
| 2 | Bitdefender |
| 3 | ESET |
These solutions offer effective protection against online threats, while maintaining the right balance between security and ease of use.
Malware Protection Test
This test assesses the ability of antivirus products to detect and block malware from sources such as USB storage devices and local networks. The focus is on detection capacity and false positive rate.
| Ranking | Antivirus |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bitdefender |
| 2 | G DATA |
| 3 | Avast |
These programs are particularly effective in identifying and eliminating offline threats.
False-positive test
A false positive occurs when an antivirus wrongly identifies a legitimate file or program as a threat. A high number of false positives can be problematic, as they cause inconvenience for the user and can affect productivity.
| Number of errors | Antivirus |
|---|---|
| 5 | Kaspersky |
| 15 | ESET |
| 20 | Bitdefender |
These solutions ensure accurate threat detection while minimizing disruption to the user.
Impact on system performance
Good anti-virus software must guarantee effective protection with minimal impact on computer performance. This test measures resource consumption during common tasks such as opening files, installing applications or surfing the Internet.
| Ranking | Antivirus |
|---|---|
| 5 | McAfee |
| 15 | Kaspersky |
| 20 | ESET |
These antivirus products offer a high level of protection while preserving system performance.
Protection against complex threats
Some so-called advanced attacks are not based on traditional files, but use sophisticated techniques to bypass the detection of traditional antivirus software. This test assesses the ability of solutions to block these targeted threats.
| Results | Antivirus |
|---|---|
| 93.33% success rate | ESET |
| 86.67% success rate | Bitdefender, Kaspersky |
| 80% success rate | Avast, AVG |
ESET stands out in this field with its excellent protection against advanced cyberattacks.
ESET dominates the antivirus rankings in 2025, winning the prestigious AV-Comparatives Product of the Year award in December 2024. Praised for its excellent detection of advanced threats, its low false-positive rate and its virtually non-existent impact on the system, it stands out as the most complete security solution in 2025. Bitdefender, Kaspersky, Avast and AVG follow close behind, and also stand out for their real-time protection and low resource consumption.
How to choose the right antivirus?
Choosing high-performance antivirus software is essential to protect your computer against malicious threats such as ransomware, spyware and Trojans. In addition to scanning your emails and downloads, a good antivirus program must be able to block malicious programs before they infect your system.
To assess the quality of a solution, check the results of antivirus comparisons carried out by independent organizations such as AV-Test. Also check that the software offers heuristic analysis, a regularly updated signature database and an effective firewall. These features enhance web protection and limit the risk of spam or malicious code.
Take your needs into account: if you often use USB sticks, opt for an antivirus capable of automatically scanning these media. If you play games or watch videos online, opt for a lightweight tool like Avira Free Antivirus or Bitdefender, which will have less impact on RAM. On the other hand, more comprehensive suites (such as Kaspersky Internet Security or Norton Security) offer a wider range of protection.
Finally, before buying and installing an antivirus program, check its compatibility with your operating system (Windows, Mac or Android). To make the right choice, we recommend you test several free versions offered by different publishers: this will enable you to compare performance, ergonomics and the various Internet security features before investing in a paid version.
Should I choose a free or paid antivirus?
Many publishers offer free antivirus solutions for home users, such as Windows Defender, Avast or AVG Free. These solutions are often sufficient to protect you against most common malicious threats, provided you keep your antivirus database up to date and practice cautious browsing (avoid unknown sites and suspicious e-mails).
Free versions can sometimes lack advanced features, such as enhanced Internet protection, encryption or full anti-spam. What’s more, some options, such as parental controls or cloud backup, are only available in paid security suites. If you’re simply looking for a basic tool to block malware, a free antivirus may suffice.
Paid antivirus software such as Norton Antivirus, Bitdefender Internet Security or Kaspersky Total Security often include a more advanced firewall, in-depth heuristic analysis and a better virus detection rate. They also offer responsive technical support to quickly resolve any problems related to an infected computer.
The choice between paid and free antivirus software therefore depends on your use, your budget and your desired level of security. If you handle sensitive data, it may be wise to invest in a complete antivirus solution. In any case, be sure to uninstall any obsolete software before switching to a new antivirus.
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