Microsoft Defender isn't bad, but it's not enough to fully protect your PC. You don't have to pay extra, though—just use one of the top free antivirus apps we've tested.

Looking for a new antivirus? My tried and tested favorites will improve the security of your desktop PC, laptop, and mobile devices.

Dianna Gunn built her first WordPress website in 2008. Since then, she's poured thousands of hours into understanding how websites and online businesses work. She's shared what she's learned on blogs ...

In 2025, most devices feature built-in antivirus software that scans files you attempt to download, blocking anything it deems suspicious. Antivirus tools also perform automated scans to remove ...

Every time I've had the pleasure of troubleshooting a slow computer, I've discovered that viruses were sapping the PC's performance—and that's included my own. However, you don't have to start pricing ...

PCWorld highlights three superior antivirus alternatives to PC free trials: Windows Security, free options like Bitdefender and Avast One, and comprehensive paid suites like Norton 360 Deluxe. Free ...

When the IBM PC was new, I served as the president of the San Francisco PC User Group for three years. That’s how I met PCMag’s editorial team, who brought me on board in 1986. In the years since that ...

Computer viruses can invade your system without you noticing, disrupting its operation and even stealing your data. To protect your device, it's important to know how to recognize signs of infection, ...

Realizing that your computer is infected with a virus can be a heart-stopping moment, but there's no need to panic. Viruses or other malware can have a devastating effect on your PC, slowing its ...

Back in 2023, we asked anti-virus expert Andreas Marx of AV-Test how so many infections escape antivirus software, even though it actually protects well. His answer: “Many programs successfully fend ...

It's important to know the signs of a virus, so that you can act quickly to get rid of any malware and stay safe in future. A virus is a type of malicious software, or malware, that can replicate ...