While the free version lacks some of the advanced features you get with the premium versions of Bitdefender, like automatic updates, it’s equipped with the basic features required to protect your computer with real-time threat detection, virus scanning, and malware removal. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus and Bitdefender Total Security, which are both paid versions of the software, add protection for iOS as well. The free version of Bitdefender is a lightweight antivirus program that’s available for Windows, Android, and macOS. That means you can use it as your primary defense against viruses, worms, trojans, zero-day exploits, rootkits, and all sorts of malware as well. No automatic (software) updates, but virus definitions are auto-update.īitdefender is our pick for the best antivirus that includes built-in malware protection. IOS version only available with premium versions.

The free version allows you to scan for malware and remove it whenever you want, but it lacks the real-time scanning and protection that you get from the premium version. This fantastic malware removal tool is available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even Chromebooks. Once Malwarebytes has identified an issue, it’s able to clean up and remove the malicious code. It receives daily updates to help you keep on top of the latest malware, and also employs a number of techniques that can help it identify brand-new malware on your system that’s never even been seen before. Malwarebytes is a comprehensive security tool that’s designed to shore up your traditional antivirus program. The free version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware even comes with a 14-day free trial of the premium version, which protects you with real-time scanning and additional measures to thwart ransomware.

Malwarebytes takes our top pick for the best overall free malware removal tool thanks to its sterling reputation, frequent updates, and how easy it is to use.

Microsoft antivirus scanner