Free antivirus apps can protect your PC from common threats—but paid software often adds stronger defenses, extra tools, and peace of mind. I'm here to walk you through the differences.

In 2025, most devices feature built-in antivirus software that scans files you attempt to download, blocking anything it deems suspicious. Antivirus tools also perform automated scans to remove ...

Free malware scanners help find hidden threats on your PC that normal antivirus programs may miss.Running regular scans keeps your computer ...

PCWorld highlights three superior antivirus alternatives to PC free trials: Windows Security, free options like Bitdefender and Avast One, and comprehensive paid suites like Norton 360 Deluxe. Free ...

A finger pressing a key with antivirus inscription on a keyboard - Diy13/Getty Images With the ever-growing threat of malware, ransomware, and phishing scams, a solid security app is essential for any ...

Every time I've had the pleasure of troubleshooting a slow computer, I've discovered that viruses were sapping the PC's performance—and that's included my own. However, you don't have to start pricing ...

Webroot - Its streamlined technology, efficient scanning, and powerful threat intelligence make it a highly recommended solution for maintaining strong PC security. The Software Experts evaluation ...

Computer viruses can invade your system without you noticing, disrupting its operation and even stealing your data. To protect your device, it's important to know how to recognize signs of infection, ...

Marshall Gunnell is a Tokyo-based tech journalist and editor with over a decade of experience covering IT, cybersecurity and data storage. Alongside CNET, his work has appeared in ZDNET, Business ...

Dianna Gunn built her first WordPress website in 2008. Since then, she's poured thousands of hours into understanding how websites and online businesses work. She's shared what she's learned on blogs ...

When the IBM PC was new, I served as the president of the San Francisco PC User Group for three years. That’s how I met PCMag’s editorial team, who brought me on board in 1986. In the years since that ...