Top 10 Free Antivirus Software for Windows (2025)
Best
free tools to protect your PC from viruses, malware, and online threats.
Keeping your Windows computer secure doesn't have to cost a penny. There are several powerful, free antivirus programs that offer real-time protection, malware scanning, and privacy features—all without requiring a subscription. Here's a list of the top 10 free antivirus software for Windows in 2025, along with their key features.
1. Windows Defender (Microsoft Defender Antivirus)
✅ Built-in & Free
Windows Defender comes pre-installed with Windows 10 and 11. It offers
real-time protection, firewall integration, and automatic updates.
Features:
- No installation needed
- Runs silently in the
background
- Integrated with Windows
Security Center
- Good for casual users
2. Avast Free Antivirus
✅ Lightweight & User-Friendly
Avast provides a clean interface, solid virus detection, and extra tools like a
Wi-Fi inspector and password manager.
Features:
- Real-time protection
- Ransomware shield
- Email security scanner
- Silent gaming mode
3. AVG AntiVirus Free
✅ Trusted & Simple
Owned by Avast, AVG shares the same engine but offers a different UI and fewer
pop-ups.
Features:
- Blocks viruses, spyware,
& malware
- Web & email protection
- Scans PC performance issues
4. Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition
✅ Fast & Silent Protection
Bitdefender offers strong malware detection with a “set-it-and-forget-it”
experience.
Features:
- Auto-pilot mode
- Cloud scanning
- Minimal impact on system performance
5. Kaspersky Security Cloud – Free
✅ Cloud-based, Powerful Engine
Offers strong malware protection and an easy-to-use dashboard, plus limited VPN
access.
Features:
- Real-time protection
- Secure connection (limited
VPN)
- Password manager (basic)
6. Avira Free Security
✅ Feature-Rich Bundle
Avira includes a free antivirus along with tools like a VPN, PC optimizer, and
password manager.
Features:
- Malware detection &
repair
- Free VPN (500MB/month)
- Privacy & tracking protection
7. Panda Free Antivirus
✅ Stylish & Smart Scanning
Panda offers unique features like automatic USB scanning and a process monitor.
Features:
- Real-time antivirus
- USB protection
- Rescue kit for infected systems
8. Sophos Home Free
✅ Business-grade Security for Home
Great for families, as it offers centralized management of up to 3 PCs.
Features:
- Web filtering
- Parental controls
- Remote device management
9. ZoneAlarm Free Antivirus
✅ Combo of Firewall + Antivirus
Developed by Check Point, ZoneAlarm offers antivirus + firewall protection for
basic users.
Features:
- Two-way firewall
- Identity protection
- Real-time antivirus
10. Comodo Free Antivirus
✅ Advanced Customization
Comodo includes a secure sandbox mode that isolates unknown apps from your
system.
Features:
- Auto-sandboxing
- Host intrusion prevention
- Real-time scanning
🔒 Which One Should You Choose?
- Beginners / Basic Users: Windows Defender, AVG, or
Avast
- Power Users / Privacy
Focused:
Bitdefender, Kaspersky, or Avira
- Family / Multi-device
Management:
Sophos or Panda
- Advanced Controls: Comodo or ZoneAlarm
💡 Bonus Tip:
Never
install more than one antivirus at a time. Multiple antivirus tools running
together can conflict and reduce performance or protection quality.
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