This works with Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and even some browsers like Vivaldi (although some browsers like Brave aren’t supported, so it could be used to circumvent these blocks). You can use web filtering to block access to specific website categories, such as gambling or adult content. Parental control is generally reserved for paid antivirus programs, so I was pleased to see that Sophos offers a decent version for free. This is especially useful for managing your kids’ devices - you can configure settings, run scans, and get a quick overview of everyone’s devices in a single place. Sophos Home Free is a great Windows antivirus if you’ve got kids as it comes with parental controls and a remote dashboard. Apps available for Windows 7, 8, and 10.Extra features include parental controls and remote management tools.AI-based malware scanner protects against the newest viruses.Avira Free Security - #1 Antivirus for Windows at No Cost Try Avira for free today! The Best Free Antivirus Software for Windows 10, 8, and 7 (Updated March 2022) 1. This ensures you’ll have at least a minimum level of protection. I strongly suggest you combine Microsoft Defender with a free antivirus like Avira. While Microsoft Defender can act as a basic firewall, that’s nowhere near enough to keep private data safe on your Windows device. Even free antivirus brands often include key cybersecurity features like VPNs, parental controls, password managers, and PC optimization tools - none of which Microsoft Defender offers. After running extensive tests with my team, I was disappointed to discover that Microsoft Defender just doesn’t stand up to the competition.

Microsoft Defender (formerly known as “Windows Defender”) is the free default antivirus that comes with every Windows PC. Microsoft Defender is Good, But Not Enough Protection for Windows in 2022 In tests, my team and I found that Norton even blocks specific cyberthreats targeting Windows. Update March 2022: Norton 360 doesn’t have a free version any longer, but it’s the best antivirus for Windows and you can still try Norton 360 for free for 60 days with the money-back guarantee.

Bitdefender - Basic virus scanner for Windows, but comes with no extra features.

Panda - Free antivirus with configurable firewall and Game Mode, but no safe browsing feature.

TotalAV - Excellent antivirus engine, but leaves PC vulnerable due to no real-time or ransomware protection.

Kaspersky - Powerful scanner detects Windows-specific malware, but has limited features on the free plan.

Sophos - Best free antivirus for families with parental controls and remote management options, but average phishing protection.

Includes bonus PC optimization tools for enhanced performance.

Avira - #1 free Windows antivirus for protection against advanced malware.

Best Parental Control for iPhone & iPad.

IPVanish VPN vs Private Internet Access.

Good virus protection free