Best antivirus software for Windows 11
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In my March 2026 review, TotalAV remains my top recommendation for the best antivirus software for Windows 11. Its powerful real-time protection, anti-phishing tools, and system optimization features keep your PC secure, while its user-friendly design makes it accessible for all users.
If you want stronger protection for your Windows 11 device or often download files from less reliable sources, using antivirus software is a smart choice. While Windows Security covers the basics, it lacks advanced features and a quick response to emerging risks. That’s why it’s a good idea to invest in third-party antivirus tools. Premium options like TotalAV keep up with evolving cyberthreats, offer faster detection, and add extra security layers beyond what’s built in.
To help you choose the best antivirus for Windows 11, I worked with the Cybernews research team to select and compare reliable options. We focused on speed, protection quality, and useful features. I break down each antivirus software's strengths and weaknesses below.
My top-rated antivirus programs for Windows 11
- TotalAV – best antivirus for Windows 11 overall
- Bitdefender – excellent virus and malware protection for Windows computers
- Norton 360 – great Windows 11 antivirus for malware removal
- Avast – generous free version antivirus for Windows 11
- Avira – beginner-friendly antivirus for Windows OS
Our team of researchers thoroughly tests antivirus software following a well-established testing process. In unison, our experts combine in-house and independent testing lab findings with first-hand experience to help you make informed decisions about each product. Learn how we test antivirus software.
The best antivirus for Windows 11 – detailed list
Together with our research team, I reviewed 26 antiviruses to find the best antivirus software for Windows 11. We assessed real-time protection, scan capabilities, extra security features, and other essential criteria during the evaluations.
1. TotalAV – best antivirus choice for Windows 11
| Max devices: | 8 |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes |
| Platforms: | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
| Current deal: | Get TotalAV, now 80% OFF |
TotalAV is the best antivirus for Windows 11 in 2026 according to our recent tests and reviews. Although it has no exclusive Windows 11 features, it provides the best price-to-performance ratio overall, meaning you get the best amount of essential security features at an affordable price. Plus, the provider’s entire feature arsenal works on all supported platforms, making it a great all-rounder.
Why I picked TotalAV
TotalAV impressed me with its performance during Windows 11 testing. The quick scan found 9 out of 10 malware samples in just 3 minutes, which is fast and effective for regular checks. The full system scan took only around 15 minutes, a surprisingly quick time for such a thorough scan, while keeping CPU usage low enough not to disrupt other tasks.
Additionally, independent evaluations from AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives showed excellent results for TotalAV, further supporting our findings. I recommend reading our in-depth TotalAV review to learn more about our test results and the provider’s overall feature set.
Pricing is another reason I picked it. At $19.00/year, it’s one of the more affordable options. However, some features like the VPN, ad blocker, and password manager are only available on higher-tier plans.
The TotalAV layout is minimal and easy to understand, even if you're not tech-savvy. The main sections: Home, Total Security, Settings, and My Account are in a tidy sidebar. From there, you can quickly run scans, check quarantined files, or tweak settings without digging through cluttered menus.
Who is it for
TotalAV is a great fit for Windows 11 users who want solid protection without overcomplicating things. It’s especially suited for people who value performance, ease of use, and cross-platform consistency. The scans are fast, the system impact is low, and the interface is straightforward. It’s also a good option if you use multiple devices and want a consistent platform experience. However, while the initial $19.00/year price is appealing, the steep jump at renewal might be a dealbreaker for some.
2. Bitdefender – exceptional antivirus protection for Windows 11
| Max devices: | 25 |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes |
| Platforms: | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Get Bitdefender for up to 78% OFF |
Bitdefender is a robust Windows 11 antivirus service with excellent Windows-specific tools to keep your PC protected. Its affordable plans provide reliable security, despite longer scan times and higher system impact.
Why I picked Bitdefender
During our Bitdefender review, it stood out in our tests for its strong ransomware protection and consistently high third-party scores. It detected 100% of ransomware samples in our internal testing. That’s backed up by perfect scores from December AV-TEST.
On the other hand, in our recent full system scan, Bitdefender detected 132 out of 150 malware samples – an 88% detection rate. While that’s not ideal for a full scan, the results were consistent with other tools in its price range. The scan took around two hours to complete, and CPU usage remained high throughout (between 50% and 100%), which could be noticeable on lower-end systems.
For Windows 11 users, Bitdefender also includes useful features like a two-way firewall, ransomware remediation, SafePay (a secure browser for transactions), and tools like Vulnerability Assessment and Wi-Fi Security Advisor.
The Antivirus Plus plan starts at $12.99/year, and while scan times are longer and the system impact is higher, you get a layered, well-rounded set of protections for the price. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee if you want to try it risk-free.
Who is it for
Bitdefender is the perfect choice for Windows users who want powerful protection with a plan built specifically for their OS. The Antivirus Plus plan is tailored for a single Windows device, making it a great budget-friendly option. For broader coverage, the Total Security plan costs $19.99/year and supports up to three devices across any operating system.
3. Norton 360 – well-rounded Windows 11 antivirus solution for malware removal
| Max devices: | 10 |
| Free version: | ❌ No |
| Platforms: | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
| Current deal: | Get up to 60% OFF Norton Antivirus |
Norton 360 stands out on Windows 11 by blending strong antivirus protection with smart, Windows-focused tools. It’s a really good choice if you want strong security and don’t mind paying a bit more.
Why I picked Norton 360
What really pushed Norton 360 to the top for me was its balance of malware detection, fast scans, and unique Windows 11 features. During our Norton review, the full scan detected 102 out of 150 malware samples, showing a 68% detection rate. The quick scan was impressively fast, finishing in under a minute while catching most threats, which makes it practical for regular use.
Norton’s CPU usage during the full scan was high (70% to 96%), which can slow down your computer, so it’s something to consider if you need to multitask during scans. Supporting these results, Norton also earned perfect scores in the December 2025 AV-TEST round, proving its effectiveness isn’t just in my own tests but recognized independently.
The standout for me was Norton’s exclusive Windows 11 perks. SafeCam blocks unauthorized webcam access, a solid privacy feature for video calls. Plus, Norton offers built-in cloud backup, starting at 2GB with the basic plan and up to 100GB with higher tiers, which is rare in antivirus software and adds real value if you want extra file protection.
Norton 360’s entry-level plan starts at $29.99/year, which is notably higher than Bitdefender’s $12.99/year Antivirus Plus or its mid-range Total Security plan at $19.00/year. While Norton is still more affordable than some premium competitors, it’s not among the cheapest options. Norton doesn’t offer a free plan, but its 60-day money-back guarantee provides a solid risk-free trial alternative.
Who is it for
Norton 360 is a solid choice for users who want fast and effective antivirus protection with useful features like webcam security and cloud backup. It’s best for those willing to pay a bit more upfront for a full package. The subscription starts at $29.99/year, though renewal prices increase after the first year.
4. Avast – robust free antivirus offering for Windows 11
| Max devices: | 30 |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes |
| Platforms: | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Get up to 60% OFF Avast Antivirus |
Avast Antivirus is a solid choice for both casual and advanced Windows 11 users. It offers strong malware protection, a generous free version, and plenty of extra features to boost your device’s security.
Why I picked Avast
In our in-house tests, Avast's performance wasn’t ideal. During the full scan, it showed a 65% malware detection rate. The quick scan was a little less reliable, detecting 57% threats. That said, in AV-TEST’s December 2025 evaluation, Avast earned perfect scores for protection, performance, and usability.
Its free version is one of the most generous on the market, offering a firewall, limited ransomware protection, and network inspection at no cost. The Premium plan, starting at $31.20/year, adds phishing protection, webcam security, and a file shredder. There’s also a 30-day money-back guarantee, which adds peace of mind.
That said, Avast still deals with the shadow of past data collection controversies and can be persistent with upgrade prompts. However, it has since taken steps toward transparency, and its overall feature set, pricing, and protection quality make it a top contender.
Who is it for
Avast is a great fit for users who want strong malware protection without spending money upfront. Its free version is ideal for students, casual users, or anyone looking to secure a single device with essential features.
5. Avira Antivirus – Windows 11 antivirus for beginners
| Max devices: | 5 |
| Free version: | ✅ Yes |
| Platforms: | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
| Current deal: | Get 1 year of Avira at 65% OFF |
Avira Antivirus is my recommended Windows 11 antivirus service for beginners. It has an easy-to-use interface and compelling features for protecting your device.
Why I picked Avira
What stood out most about Avira is its speed and efficiency. Its full system scan only took 14 minutes, much quicker than many rivals, making it a good choice if you want thorough protection without long waits. Even though the CPU usage spikes during scans, that quickness means less downtime overall.
Avira’s privacy features, primarily the Windows Privacy Settings Customization tool, also caught my eye. It centralizes control over your privacy options, helping you reduce data collection, which is rare for antivirus software, and adds real value for privacy-focused users.
While the quick scan didn’t detect malware in our tests, Avira performed well in full scans and earned perfect scores in the latest December 2025 AV-TEST independent evaluations, affirming its strong security.
Pricing starts at $22.99/year for Avira Antivirus Pro, which covers the basics. Higher-tier plans add extras like software updater and PC tune-up tools, making it a flexible choice depending on your needs.
Who is it for
Avira is a decent choice for beginners due to its simple and easy-to-use interface. However, the quick scan’s failure to detect malware and the very high CPU load during full scans make it less suitable if you need a light system impact or reliable quick checks.
Choosing Windows 11 antivirus: what you need to know
If you’re not a security expert, choosing a reliable antivirus for Windows 11 can seem difficult and confusing. Especially considering all the options available on the market.
Before purchasing, it’s always wise to explore community perspectives by checking opinions on forums or sites like Reddit. Additionally, search for any known leaks or any incidents that the provider may have been involved in. Once you’ve got a general view of how people rate specific software, I’d read reviews and comparisons on reputable websites.
After you’ve chosen a handful of seemingly reliable antivirus providers, check which ones offer free trials or money-back guarantees. This way, you can test each or at least a couple to make sure they meet your security needs.
How we selected and tested these antivirus tools
To choose only the best antivirus solutions for Windows 11, we extensively researched and tested each antivirus provider. More than two dozen antiviruses were tested on a Virtualbox VM with Windows 11 (10GB RAM, 120GB dynamic HDD, and 2 CPU cores) installed on a Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen2 device (AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 5650U processor, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Windows 11 Pro OS).
Our research team installed various malware samples on the testing device and performed quick and full scans using each antivirus. We also checked how the device’s performance is impacted during scans, evaluated additional features, and reached out to customer support. Here’s a glimpse into the testing process:
- Performance (30%). During the antivirus software testing process, we also monitored the impact of antivirus on system performance, including CPU and memory load.
- Independent lab tests (25%). We checked the latest independent lab test results. They allowed us to pick only those services that show great results. This includes ratings from independent testing labs AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives.
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In-house testing (20%). We performed comprehensive antivirus testing in-house by planting threats on the test device and running all types of scans the antivirus offers. We also visited malicious websites with the Windows 11 antivirus enabled. This way, we could see how well the providers catch malware in real time and their ability to detect existing threats.
- Security features (15%). We researched what features each antivirus provides. Such additions as a firewall or real-time protection are beneficial for better protection.
- Customer support (10%). We took into consideration the customer support options that antivirus providers offer. We included services that provide you with 24/7 human support – something Microsoft Defender doesn’t offer.
After reviewing the results of extensive testing and research, I ranked the providers to introduce the best Windows 11 antivirus suites.
Best antiviruses for Windows 11 compared
| Rating | Free version | Windows app | Starting price | Renewal price | Real-time protection | Firewall | Parental controls | |
| TotalAV | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | From $19.00/year | From $99.00/year | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | |
| Bitdefender | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | From $12.99/year | From $39.99/year | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | |
| Norton 360 | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | From $29.99/year | From $59.99/year | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | |
| Avast | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | From $31.20/year | From $77.99/year | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | |
| Avira | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | From $22.99/year | From $64.99/year | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Why do you need more than Microsoft Security?
While Microsoft Security offers basic protection for Windows 11 computers, it falls short when compared to dedicated antivirus solutions. The software can warn you about dangerous websites or malicious downloads and includes real-time protection (RTP) and scanning options to quarantine or remove threats.
However, it lacks some of the advanced features found in premium antivirus programs, such as robust phishing protection, ransomware shields, or comprehensive privacy tools, which are essential against more sophisticated threats.
Before moving on, it’s important to clarify the difference between Windows Defender, Windows Security, and Microsoft Defender. Windows Defender is an outdated name for the Windows operating system’s built-in security software. Instead, it’s now called Windows Security and comes preinstalled on all Windows 11 devices. Meanwhile, Microsoft Defender is a paid service you can purchase separately or with the Microsoft 365 package.
Interestingly, many third-party antivirus labs test Microsoft Defender’s capabilities and not Windows Security. As such, it’s difficult for consumers to get some data on whether Windows Security is effective. However, I believe we can rightfully assume its effectiveness by checking Microsoft Defender’s results.
On the other hand, the latest December 2025 results from AV-TEST show that Microsoft Defender Antivirus is quite good. The software achieved top scores in all three categories: protection, performance, and usability.
Meanwhile, results from AV-Comparatives weren’t so favorable for Microsoft Defender in the site’s September 2025 Malware Protection test. The software performed well regarding offline malware detection and had 27 false alarms. On the plus side, the online protection rate was 100%, giving Microsoft Defender the highest Advanced+ rating from AV-Comparatives.
So, while Microsoft Defender is considered strong by independent sources, it's unlikely that Windows Security alone provides the same level of protection. If it did, there would be little incentive for users to pay for Microsoft Defender.
To sum up, I would advise investing in a well-performing premium antivirus service that shows greater effectiveness than Microsoft Defender.
Can I use a free antivirus for Windows 11?
Yes, a free antivirus can protect your Windows 11 device if you follow proper cybersecurity hygiene.
However, as mentioned previously, the default Windows Security tool lacks many extra features free antivirus services from third-party vendors can provide. For example, Windows Security cannot offer a password manager, a VPN, or ad blocking and is more vulnerable to zero-day attacks.
Moreover, premium antivirus software can provide comprehensive real-time protection, device optimization, dark web monitoring, and numerous other security perks. Naturally, the overall package depends on the paid antivirus you choose.
At the end of the day, a free antivirus is not the worst choice. It’s better to have some security layers than no security at all.
Video review: best antivirus for Windows 11
Find the best Windows 11 antivirus recommendations in this detailed video review. We assess apps and features, testing results, pricing, and more. Discover which antivirus solution might work best for you.
Why TotalAV is my go-to choice for Windows 11 antivirus
Using an antivirus program with Windows 11 is essential for preventing various cyberthreats. Windows Security can be enough for basic protection but might not handle advanced threats. For the best protection, you need a service that ensures above-average independent malware test results and includes important security features, such as real-time protection.
My top choice antivirus for Windows 11 is TotalAV. It secures you in real-time, blocks 100% of threats (according to independent lab test results), and provides extras like anti-phishing protection, a VPN, a password manager, and more.
FAQ
Does Windows 11 need an antivirus?
Yes, Windows 11, like any operating system, needs antivirus protection against viruses and other types of malware. Fortunately, antivirus programs like TotalAV offer a lot more than malware scans and protection.
Can I remain with my Windows 10 antivirus after switching to Windows 11?
Yes, but that depends on what kind of antivirus you have and whether it does the job well for you. If you have one of the tools from this list, you’re safe without a doubt. I encourage you to make sure that antivirus software is up to date after switching to the new OS version.
Is Microsoft Defender free for Windows 11?
Yes, you get Microsoft Defender Antivirus for free with Windows 11. This solution comes built into the operating system, and while it’s very convenient to use, it doesn’t offer the most comprehensive protection. If you’re trying to secure your PC against all kinds of threats, I recommend opting for a dedicated antivirus, like TotalAV.
What antivirus is the best for Windows 11?
TotalAV is the best antivirus for Windows 11. Based on in-house and independent lab tests, it delivers top malware protection and strong security for both online and offline use.
Is Norton or McAfee better?
Norton is better than McAfee. It shows higher malware detection rates and more reliable overall protection, while McAfee often lags behind in performance and results.
Is the Windows 11 antivirus good enough?
No, the default Windows 11 antivirus from Microsoft isn’t enough. It lacks advanced phishing protection, ransomware defense, and strong privacy tools. Options like TotalAV or Bitdefender provide more complete protection.
