This article was initially published on Mashable for a U.S. audience and has been modified for readers in Australia.

Having dependable antivirus software is just as critical as possessing a keyboard or mouse. Frankly, it’s dangerous to browse the internet without it. Regardless of the type of computer you own, there’s always some harmful entity waiting to strike.

Shielding yourself from viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing scams is merely the start. A comprehensive antivirus suite can protect you from much more. It’s not solely your hardware that’s in jeopardy; your personal documents, financial details, and private images could also be at risk from cyber attackers.

Although free antivirus solutions exist, they frequently come with various restrictions. Thankfully, there are numerous options to fortify your PC, but with an abundance of selections, picking the right one can be challenging. Sorting through the jargon and technical terms can feel burdensome. That’s why we’re here to assist you in making an informed choice. Here’s some vital information to help you begin.

What is antivirus software?

Antivirus software is a type of program created to identify and eliminate viruses and other forms of malicious software (often known as malware) from your computer. It detects, quarantines, and removes viruses, preventing them from harming your device. Most antivirus programs automatically update to guard against the latest threats.

What’s the difference between a virus and malware?

While they are interconnected, they are not entirely identical. Malware is an umbrella term that encompasses all varieties of malicious software, with viruses being just one category of malware. Other types of malware include trojans, spyware, ransomware, and scareware.

How do computer viruses work?

A computer virus replicates itself and disseminates across devices as swiftly and broadly as possible (hence its designation as a “virus”). They can infect applications and emails, and spread via websites, email attachments, storage devices, and even routers. Basic viruses might harm a hard drive or erase files, while more sophisticated viruses can make your device send out spam or avoid detection altogether.

What is anti-malware software?

Antivirus software mainly targets the identification and removal of viruses and select other types of malware, whereas anti-malware applications are designed to defend against a wider array of threats, including newer and more advanced attacks. Antivirus software is often pre-installed on new PCs (though you may want to upgrade to something more thorough), while anti-malware typically serves as an additional security layer.

What are the best antivirus features?

Selecting the appropriate antivirus software depends on your specific needs and how you utilize your computer. Keep in mind that installing multiple antivirus applications can actually lead to issues, so it’s advisable to use just one. There are several critical features to consider when making your selection. For instance, since many dangers arise from internet surfing, phishing protection is an essential feature. Spyware and adware also pose common challenges, so it’s wise to find antivirus software capable of scanning for these threats too.

Moreover, you’ll want software that provides on-demand malware scanning and vulnerability assessments, ensuring you remain in control of your data. Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving landscape, making it crucial to choose software that stays current with the latest developments, such as the emergence of ransomware that can compromise your files.

What’s the best antivirus software?

If all this information seems daunting, don’t fret — we have conducted the necessary research and identified the best paid antivirus options, detailing why they are worth the investment. Typically, you get what you pay for, but can you truly assign a value to protecting your computer — and the sensitive information it contains — from potential risks?

Here are the leading antivirus solutions for every scenario in 2024.