Soft Ferret

Antivirus

Microsoft Defender (Windows Security)

per month on a yearly plan, checked November 1, 2026

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Free baseline protection on Windows

Built into Windows 10 and 11 at no extra cost, with real-time scanning. Mac, iOS and Android coverage needs Microsoft 365 Personal or Family.

In the list: Best antivirus, and whether you need to pay at all

Specs
Free tierBuilt into Windows at no extra cost; no separate purchase
PlatformsWindows

Close in price

ProductBest forPer month, yearly planCheckedLink
Norton AntiVirus PlusOne device, with cloud backup and a password manager$2.50November 1, 2026Visit
Bitdefender Antivirus Plus$29.99 first year for 3 devices$2.50November 1, 2026Visit
Webroot EssentialsCheap single-device antivirus$2.92November 1, 2026Visit
AVG Internet SecurityOne-PC buyers with a free fallback$3.33November 1, 2026Visit