Compare eight familiar security options and current US purchase terms. Sponsored placements are identified and lab findings are kept separate from our editorial choices.
Eight products · commercial placement order, not an independent quality ranking. Always verify plan details before purchasing.
Real-time antivirus and optional security extras
FEATURED PARTNER · PAID LINKReview the included protection tools and current promotional terms before deciding whether a subscription is right for your devices.
Established multi-layer security suite
Compare security features, device coverage and subscription levels directly with the manufacturer.
Windows security with a strong tested result
Explore current Windows protection plans and compare additional features by subscription tier.
Free and paid antivirus options
Explore free and paid antivirus options and check which capabilities are included with the edition.
Household and device-security subscriptions
Compare household security plans, eligible devices and renewal conditions before purchase.
Anti-malware focused security options
Explore protection against malicious software, with features varying by edition and plan.
Additional paid antivirus partner option
PAID PARTNERCompare currently available protection plans and their pricing, included tools and renewal conditions.
Antivirus included with Windows 11
A built-in antivirus option for Windows 11 users who may not require a separate paid subscription.
About placement: TotalAV is our featured commercial partner and PCProtect also has a paid link. Other brands link to their official websites or to our free guide. Commercial order does not imply a scientific score. Review our methodology.
Every device needs the right level of protection, not necessarily the most expensive subscription. Start with the ranking, check coverage and billing, then read the independent lab evidence.
Match lab scores to the exact tested product and Windows edition. Scores from a single round do not prove one product is always best.
Introductory pricing can differ from renewal pricing. Compare currency, taxes, device licenses and cancellation terms.
Windows 11 already includes Microsoft Defender. Additional paid suites make sense when their extra features justify the cost for you.
AV-TEST home Windows 11, July–August 2026. Scores below refer to specified products and versions, not a general ranking of our affiliate partners.
| Product | Protection | Total /18 |
|---|---|---|
| Norton 360 | 6/6 | 18 |
| Bitdefender Total Security | 6/6 | 18 |
| TotalAV | 6/6 | 17.5 |
| Microsoft Defender | 6/6 | 17.5 |
Not necessarily. Microsoft Defender is built in. Paid antivirus is worth comparing when it provides specific extras you value. Read our Defender guide.
No. Featured order represents commercial placement and available links, not the AV-TEST ranking. In the cited July–August 2026 round, TotalAV and Microsoft Defender earned 17.5/18; Norton 360 and Bitdefender Total Security earned 18/18.
We do not publish discounts or dollar amounts without verifying the live US checkout. The provider shows current introductory pricing, renewal prices and other subscription terms.
Our current commercial relationships are limited. Products without an affiliate agreement are linked to their official site without claiming a paid partnership.
Multiple active antivirus engines can conflict. Check Windows and the provider's instructions before installing additional real-time protection.
Start with the featured partner or return to the list for alternatives. Every purchase is completed on the provider's website.