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How we choose the best

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Updated: September 2026

Best Antivirus Software for the USA

Protect your desktop and mobile devices with the best antivirus tools – picked by our security experts
1
Best-in-class antivirus protection
GET 60% OFF
Norton 360 delivers reliable, advanced security with extras like cloud backup, VPN & dark web alerts. Ideal for peace-of-mind users.
  • Cloud backup for file security
  • AI-powered protection
  • Parental control & monitoring
  • Credit & identity theft alerts
  • 60-day money-back guarantee
9.9
★★★★★
Outstanding
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2
GET 78% OFF
Bitdefender's next-gen protection defends against malware, fraud, and ransomware with a simple setup.
  • Ransomware & phishing defense in real-time
  • Light on system resources
  • Includes VPN for complete privacy
  • Safe online banking & shopping tools
9.8
★★★★★
Excellent
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3
GET 80% OFF
TotalAV offers complete antivirus + VPN + tune-up tools. Trusted by millions for simple, powerful protection on every device.
  • All-in-one security package
  • AI-powered threat protection
  • Auto-learns latest cyber threats
  • Works on all your devices
9.7
★★★★★
Great
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4
Aura covers you from identity theft to credit fraud with proactive alerts, VPN, and password management.
  • Secures up to 10 devices
  • Includes antivirus, VPN, and identity protection
  • Works with Windows, Android, and macOS
  • 24/7 US-based customer support
9.4
★★★★☆★
Very good
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5
NordVPN combines next-generation antivirus protection with a powerful VPN to block phishing, scam sites, fake shops, malicious ads, trackers, and malware-infected downloads. It helps stop threats before they reach your device while keeping your connection private in one easy-to-use app.
  • 30-day money-back guarantee
  • Includes VPN, tracker blocking, and protection for up to 10 devices
  • Blocks phishing, scam sites, and fake shops
  • Scans downloads for malware and blocks malicious ads
9.3
★★★★☆★
Very good
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6
Avast is a top choice of millions of users worldwide, providing comprehensive security solutions. It’s great at detecting viruses, not only on desktop, but also protecting mobile devices from malware.
  • Intuitive design
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Many useful features
9.2
★★★★☆★
Very good
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7
Malwarebytes stops malware and ransomware in real-time - simple, effective protection for all users.
  • Malware scans and removal
  • Ransomware and phishing protection
  • Detailed information
9.0
★★★★☆★
Good
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8
ESET provides complete device protection with multi-layered security, anti-theft tools, and real-time scanning at a reasonable price.
  • Extensive customization options
  • Bonus features available if you pay extra
  • 24/7 real-time protection
8.9
★★★★☆★
Good
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9
Surfshark Antivirus combines essential antivirus tools with VPN functionality, ideal for light everyday use.
  • Top VPN included
  • Webcam & real-time protection
  • Data leak notifications
8.8
★★★★☆★
Good
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10
Guardio is a browser-based security tool that helps you stay safe online by blocking threats in real-time. It’s easy to set up, works quietly in the background, and offers solid protection for everyday browsing.
  • Instant threat protection
  • Advanced scam security
  • Phishing protection
8.6
★★★★☆
Good
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Frequently Asked Questions

Cybernews.com seeks to provide the most relevant information about the tools we review. Our reviews are based both on objective (such as speed metrics) and subjective (e.g., user-friendliness, customer support) criteria. Service providers make constant updates regarding the provision of their services; thus, we do our best to keep up with them and change our reviews accordingly. However, please note the pricing could change quite frequently.

Yes – as long as you choose a reputable antivirus provider. They’re designed to protect your device from malware, phishing, and other online threats. Reliable services use advanced detection methods, regular updates, and independent audits to ensure your data stays protected. However, not every tool on the market is equally trustworthy. You should avoid free, unknown, or pirated antivirus software. These often lack proper security features, may bombard you with ads, or even contain malware themselves.

Antivirus tools protect your device by running scans that search for harmful files and suspicious activity. They compare what they find against a database of known threats and either delete or isolate anything dangerous. Since threats evolve quickly, the software updates regularly to spot the latest risks. Many antiviruses also use heuristic analysis, which looks at how programs behave to catch previously unknown malware.

Generally, a trustworthy antivirus will cost between $20 and $40 per year for a basic plan. The exact price depends on the provider, the subscription length, and any discounts available. Some premium plans with advanced features – like VPNs, password managers, or identity theft protection – can push the price higher. So while entry-level packages stay affordable, feature-rich bundles may cost noticeably more.

Editor's picks

1
GET 60% OFF
9.9
★★★★★
Outstanding
Norton 360 is hailed as one of the best antivirus programs around. It has excellent malware detection rates, offers good real-time protection while browsing the web.
Money-back guarantee
60-days
Simultaneous connections
10
Supported platforms
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
Visit Site
2
GET 78% OFF
9.8
★★★★★
Excellent
Bitdefender is a top-notch malware removal tool, and the additional benefits help lift the service above the competition.
Money-back guarantee
30-days
Simultaneous connections
10
Supported platforms
Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS
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3
GET 80% OFF
9.7
★★★★★
Great
TotalAV is one of the safest antivirus programs out there, as it offers strong protection against all kinds of viruses, trojans, spyware, ransomware, and worms. Overall, it’s a great tool for anyone concerned about safety.
Money-back guarantee
30-days
Simultaneous connections
8
Supported platforms
Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
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