Best firewall software of 2025
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Whenever you connect to a network, protection against intrusions, harmful files, malware, and data theft is necessary for the network itself and your devices. That’s where firewall software comes into play, acting as the first line of defense.
Luckily, most antivirus programs come with included firewalls. After testing numerous options, I selected my top 5 firewalls based on malware detection capabilities, value for money, and additional features. Keep reading to learn more about the best firewall software in 2025.
Top-rated firewalls of 2025
- Norton 360 Deluxe – overall best firewall for all users
- Bitdefender Total Security – firewall with a powerful security suite
- TotalAV – firewall with stable performance
- Webroot – firewall for basic needs
- Avast – easily upgradable firewall
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 firewalls for 2025 – in detail
To help you pick the best firewall software, check out my list of the top 5 firewalls I evaluated based on their capabilities, price, and performance.
1. Norton 360 Deluxe – best firewall protection overall
| Rating: | |
| Starting price: | $29.99/year |
| Number of devices: | Up to 10 |
| Current deal: | Get up to 58% OFF Norton Antivirus |
Norton is the number one internet security suite with a firewall because it’s easy to use and it can greatly benefit users of any experience level. Specifically, the firewall is available with Norton 360 plans, which come equipped with additional security features, such as antivirus, scam, malware, and ransomware protection.
Firewall capabilities. I found Norton Smart Firewall’s interface to be user-friendly. Also, settings and setting presets are clear, so you can easily monitor and manage connections. What I particularly like about this firewall software is its world map feature that lets you see the destination of each app’s connection. Also, Smart Firewall allows you to view traffic history, add traffic rules, and manage private networks (LAN).
In addition, Norton also offers other security features, including dark web and privacy monitoring, LifeLock identity theft protection, stolen wallet protection, and up to $25,000 in stolen funds reimbursement.
Who it’s for. Norton Smart Firewall is suitable for both inexperienced and more advanced users. Especially those who are concerned with security as it offers a user-friendly interface and many security features.
2. Bitdefender Total Security – a powerful internet security suite
| Rating: | |
| Starting price: | $9.99/year |
| Number of devices: | Up to 3 |
| Current deal: | Get Bitdefender for up to 78% OFF |
Bitdefender Total Security is a powerful internet security suite that offers a firewall with exceptional scores based on our in-house testing. It also has antivirus protection and multi-layered malware protection that safeguards your devices against ransomware.
Firewall capabilities. When using Bitdefender’s firewall feature, I was able to see what applications are making outgoing connections through selected network adaptors and add rules for inbound and outbound connections. Also, I liked that I could assign each network adapter to a different network type from the selection of dynamic, home, and public.
Bitdefender includes some additional features as well: Stealth mode makes your device invisible on local networks; Alert mode notifies about application rights to access the internet; and Port Scan Protection blocks port scan attempts in the network.These features enhance both security and privacy.
Who it’s for. Bitdefender’s firewall is a great choice for a user that is more advanced and knows exactly what they're looking for. With its multi-layered malware protection and antivirus, it serves well as a comprehensive security system.
3. TotalAV – firewall with reliable safety features
| Rating: | |
| Starting price: | $19.00/year |
| Number of devices: | Up to 8 |
| Current deal: | Get TotalAV, now 80% OFF |
TotalAV demonstrates stable performance and is suitable for users of varying experience levels. Total Cleaner feature grants you access to Network Scanner that keeps you updated about the safety of your network.
Firewall capabilities. TotalAV doesn’t have a natively built-in firewall, but it has other tools that can substitute this feature. Network scanner is one of many tools that come with the Total Cleaner software and is similar to firewalls. This feature provides users with information about the network’s computers, open ports, suspicious open ports, and devices. Additionally, it comes with a deep Internet Cleanup feature that is able to go deeper than most regular performance scans. So you can count on TotalAV to be notified about any security issues.
Who it’s for. TotalAV’s Network scanner is a feature that will suit the needs of a user that looks for a trustworthy provider and wants to be on top of any safety concerns. With TotalAV, you can rest assured that your device will run smoothly, as it optimizes your device’s performance and removes bloat.
4. Webroot – firewall for average security needs
| Rating: | |
| Starting price: | $37.49/year |
| Number of devices: | Up to 5 |
| Current deal: | Get Webroot, save up to 40% |
Webroot is your average antivirus with a firewall that will keep your network secure. To its user, it gives just enough protection to be protected against possible security concerns, making it a perfect choice for beginners.
Firewall capabilities. While trying out Webroot firewall, I found that, compared to other providers on my list, it offers a limited amount of features. There are only 4 toggle switches to choose from.
The user is given an option to either allow all processes to connect to the internet or issue a warning in case any new untrusted processes connect to the internet. This has three different premises: warning only if new untrusted processes connect to the internet; warning if any process connects to the internet unless explicitly allowed; and warning if any new, untrusted process connected to the internet if the computer is infected.
Who it’s for. Webroot is a suitable provider for a user that is looking for standard firewall protection. Since it doesn’t offer additional security features or add-ons, it makes it a good pick if you’re looking for a basic firewall that will do the job.
5. Avast – budget-friendly firewall
| Rating: | |
| Starting price: | $49.99/year |
| Number of devices: | Up to 30 |
| Current deal: | Get up to 50% OFF Avast Antivirus |
Avast is another well-performing internet security suite with a firewall protection that also offers moderate prices for its services. In addition, it’s easy to upgrade from basic to more advanced security features, giving you an option to handle the security of your network and device the way you want.
Firewall capabilities. Much like other firewalls on this list, Avast offers most common firewall features: monitoring and blocking traffic from running applications; inspecting all the device’s networks and marking them either trusted or untrusted; and checking device traffic logs. It has everything you might need from a well-performing firewall.
In addition, Avast software offers some premium features. For example, leak protection that stops sensitive information leaking to networks, port scan alerts, and ARP spoofing alerts.
Who it’s for. Avast firewall is a great option for users that want to have an option to scale up easily in case they decide to. Also, it offers a pretty solid all-in-one firewall package, so you won’t need to worry about adding extras to your subscription.
Comparison of the best firewalls in 2025
| Brand | Rating | Price from | Firewall detection rates | Compatibility | Number of devices |
| 1. Norton 360 Deluxe | $29.99/year | 100% | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Up to 10 devices | |
| 2. Bitdefender Total Security | $9.99/year | None, as firewall is not natively built-in | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Up to 3 devices | |
| 3. TotalAV | $19.00/year | 97.8% | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux | Up to 8 devices | |
| 4. Webroot | $37.49/year | 40% | Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android | Up to 5 devices | |
| 5. Avast | $49.99/year | 99.5% | PC, Mac, Android, and iPhone/iPad | Up to 30 devices |
Testing methodology of the best firewalls
At Cybernews we dedicate special attention to testing methods that allow us to find the best antivirus providers that offer firewalls. You can learn more about our testing methods by visiting our how we test antivirus software page. To find the best firewall we first set up an account with the chosen platform, then we test the service to see what functionalities are available and assess the capabilities of the firewalls. To make sure that the firewalls would serve well to the users, I evaluated them based on:
- Features (35%). I assessed firewalls based on what features they offer: traffic management, device network inspection, and checking device’s traffic logs.
- Ease of use (30%). When reviewing firewalls, I also focused on how easy they were to navigate and use. I wanted to make sure it is suitable for both inexperienced and advanced users.
- Compatibility (25%). I also looked into the device compatibility and chose those firewalls that work on Windows, madOS, iOS, Linux, and android devices.
- Price (10%). I also took into account the prices of firewall subscriptions and what features they offer for that price, so you get a reasonable price-to-value ratio.
I ranked these providers from 1 to 5 based on how well they did in each of these categories.
FAQ
What is the best firewall for home use?
Norton 360 Deluxe is one of the best firewalls for home use on the market. It offers a well-rounded package that comes at a reasonable market price, starting at only $29.99/year. Additionally, you can count on its generous 60-day money-back guarantee if you’re not happy with the service.
Which firewall is the most secure?
Bitdefender Total Security is the most secure firewall as it comes with plenty of security measures that will keep your network safe. In addition to the firewall, it will give you multi-layered malware protection and includes an antivirus, so the chances of any cyberattack are kept to the minimum.
Do I need antivirus software if I have a firewall?
Yes, you still need an antivirus software even if you have a firewall. While a firewall acts as a security system that prevents unauthorized access in or out of your computer network, it doesn’t detect or protect from malware. That’s why antivirus is necessary.
