Antivirus and security software buying guide

What is an internet security package?

We’ve used ‘antivirus’ to describe these products because people know what that means. But there’s more to security than just removing viruses – many products include extras such as firewalls, password managers and virtual private networks (VPNs).

It’s helpful to have a single suite that manages all your security needs with only one installation and, for premium products, one subscription to pay.

Macs need antivirus too

Even though fewer viruses target Macs, having an internet security package installed is just as important.

We found that the macOS operating system provides almost no built-in malware protection, with more reliance on the user to know what to block. Even a confident computer user can always make a mistake and allow the wrong program, so you should be proactive in keeping your hardware safe.

You don’t necessarily need to pay

Many packages are available in free and paid varieties. Both are legitimate choices, depending on your priorities.

Free version: Contains all the same basic functions and is just as secure. However, it will incessantly ask you to upgrade to the paid version and may also come bundled with extra programs you don’t need.

Premium version: Aside from removing ads, it will come with advanced features. Some, such as ransomware protection, are like insurance policies – not useful on a daily basis, but if you do need them, you’ll really need them. Others, such as password managers, are mostly for convenience or protecting against human error.

What kind of protection do you need?

If you partake in risky behaviour online, such as downloading pirated content from file sharing sites, gambling, or visiting adult sites, you should install a robust security package (which probably means paying).

If you’re not a confident internet user, you should also get a premium antivirus suite. Staying safe online relies on a certain level of savviness – if you don’t have that, you need the strongest safety net behind you.

If you’re confident and use the internet a lot, consider a free antivirus. The core protection is usually as good as the paid version, and you’re probably shrewd enough not to fall into the worst traps.

If you’re confident but don’t go online much, and you have a Windows PC, the built-in Windows Defender security features might give enough protection. Check our test results to see how Defender stacks up.

Features to look for

Phishing protection: An attacker tricking you into providing a password or other sensitive information – by impersonating another company, for example – is called phishing. Most security suites block phishing sites. Phishing is also done via email, so look for a package with email scanning as well.

Ransomware protection: This devastating type of malware steals and encrypts your data, only decrypting it once you pay a ransom (if you’re lucky).

Password manager: Generates complex, hard-to-guess passwords on demand and stores them in an encrypted database.

Multiple-device licences: Many premium programs have licence options that let you cover additional computers and devices, such as smartphones and tablets, across a range of operating systems including iOS and Android.

Parental controls (content filtering): Lets you block certain websites or specify keywords or content that will stop a page from loading if detected.

Pop-up and ad blocking: Clicking on ads (especially in pop-up windows) can expose you to viruses or intrusive adware.

Scan on install: Ideally, you’ll be installing on a virus-free computer. If you’re not sure, look for software that checks your computer for malware before or during installation.

Scheduled scanning: Lets you set the program to regularly scan specific folders.

System requirements: Check your computer meets the program’s recommended processing power and RAM. The software is running constantly, so if it’s too resource-hungry it’ll slow your machine to a frustrating crawl.

Game mode: Useful when playing online games in which speed is crucial, this mode tells the firewall to delay pop-ups, regular scans and updates until you’ve finished. Game mode can also be useful for streaming video or other demanding activities.

Cookie blocking: Cookies are small files that save personalised information about your activity on websites. They’re widely used and often helpful, but can be a privacy risk.

Resist the upselling!

When you buy a new computer, you might be offered an antivirus package such as McAfee or Norton as an optional add-on. While sorting out antivirus should be one of the first things you do with a new PC, we don’t think you should accept these offers.

Instead, you should weigh up all your options. Our test results can help you make an informed choice. For example, you might be able to get away with a free antivirus and not have to spend a cent.