antivirus software Archives

Tech Optimizer

September 30, 2026

Do You Actually Need a Separate Antivirus, VPN and Scam Protection? McAfee’s All-in-One Plans Have You Covered

Antivirus software prevents malicious software from infiltrating devices. A VPN encrypts internet traffic, providing privacy, especially on public Wi-Fi. Scam protection tools use AI to scan for signs of fraud in texts, emails, and videos. McAfee offers bundled security plans that include antivirus, VPN, and scam protection, with higher tiers providing features like Personal Data Cleanup, credit monitoring, and identity-theft protection. Users can save over 0 in the first year by consolidating security subscriptions. Antivirus software typically costs to 0 annually, standalone scam protection apps range from to per year, and VPN access costs between to 0 annually. McAfee’s Basic plan is available for .99 for the first year for one device, while the Essential plan covers up to five devices for an additional fee. McAfee’s plans include different features based on tiers: - Basic: Covers one device with essential security tools. - Essential: Covers up to five devices with core security tools. - Premium: Unlimited devices with personal info scans. - Advanced: Unlimited devices with personal info removal and identity restoration. - Ultimate: Unlimited devices with extensive financial monitoring and identity-theft coverage. Setting up McAfee involves downloading the app, creating an account, following setup instructions, turning on the Scam Detector, configuring the VPN, and adding other devices. McAfee plans include unlimited VPN data and support multiple operating systems under a single subscription. McAfee's Scam Detector has an accuracy of over 99% and works on both iPhone and Android.

Tech Optimizer

September 29, 2026

McAfee Overhauls Its Brand as AI Rewrites the Rules of Online Security

68% of consumers primarily associate McAfee with its antivirus software, despite the company offering additional services like scam detection and dark web monitoring. Awareness of these products is limited among consumers. McAfee is launching a rebranding initiative on September 29 to broaden awareness of its diverse offerings and strengthen its position in the cybersecurity market.

Tech Optimizer

September 29, 2026

Why Endpoint Detection and Response Is No Longer Optional

Traditional antivirus software relies on a signature-based model that compares files against a database of known malware, which limits its effectiveness against modern threats. Cybercriminals have adapted by using polymorphic malware and fileless techniques that evade detection. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) continuously monitors device activities, tracking process activity, network connections, and file changes to detect behavioral patterns indicative of attacks. EDR also enables rapid response actions, such as isolating affected devices and terminating malicious processes. Small and medium businesses are increasingly targeted by attackers who exploit the limitations of traditional antivirus solutions. Relying solely on antivirus software creates vulnerabilities, making it essential for organizations to incorporate EDR for enhanced security.

Tech Optimizer

September 29, 2026

The Evolution of Endpoint Security: Why EDR Represents a Fundamental Shift From Traditional Antivirus

Organizations that rely on technology face evolving cyber threats that traditional antivirus software struggles to address. Traditional antivirus detects known malware through signature matching but is limited in its ability to catch new or modified threats. Modern cyberattacks utilize techniques like polymorphic malware and fileless attacks to evade detection. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools have emerged as a solution, focusing on analyzing behavior rather than matching known threats. EDR continuously monitors endpoints, collects data on system activities, and uses behavioral analysis to identify suspicious actions. This allows for real-time responses to threats, such as isolating affected devices or rolling back changes made by ransomware. EDR is essential for all organizations, including small businesses, which are often targeted by attackers. It should be part of a broader security strategy that includes traditional antivirus, regular updates, employee training, access controls, and backups. When considering EDR options, businesses should prioritize response speed, visibility, reporting capabilities, and integration with existing IT support.

Tech Optimizer

September 28, 2026

Norton’s antivirus plans drop to Black Friday prices — but the deals end tomorrow

Norton is offering substantial discounts on its antivirus plans, with reductions up to 76%. Current prices for the first year are as follows: Norton AntiVirus Plus at .99 (originally .99), Norton 360 Standard at .99 (originally .99), and Norton 360 Deluxe at .99 (originally 4.99). The plans provide protection for one, three, and five devices respectively, with additional features like VPN and dark web monitoring for higher-tier plans. After the first year, prices revert to standard rates unless auto-renewal is canceled. Norton also offers a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Tech Optimizer

September 26, 2026

What Is End Point Security And How Does It Work?

Endpoint security is a suite of technologies and processes designed to protect devices connected to a business network from cyber threats. It includes various devices such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, servers, and IoT devices. Endpoint security employs a multi-layered approach, scanning for malware, regulating applications, and monitoring device activity for unusual behavior. It is distinct from antivirus software, encompassing a broader range of protective measures, including firewalls, encryption, application controls, patch management, and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR). The rise of remote work and the increasing number of devices create a larger attack surface, making endpoint security essential for preventing breaches and safeguarding business operations.

Tech Optimizer

September 26, 2026

Norton 360 for Gamers vs Bitdefender vs Malwarebytes [2026]

Norton 360 and Bitdefender Total Security achieved perfect scores from AV-TEST in June 2026, while Malwarebytes had a 100% real-world protection rate in AV-Comparatives’ testing but with a higher false-positive rate. Bitdefender Total Security is recommended for PC gamers as it minimizes frame-rate impact to 0-2% during gameplay. Norton 360 for Gamers includes features for streamers and competitive players but has a higher renewal price. Malwarebytes Premium is noted for its minimal resource usage but lacks a dedicated game mode. The pricing for Norton 360 starts at .99 for the first year and increases to .99 upon renewal, Bitdefender starts at .99 for a single device, and Malwarebytes Premium aligns closely with Norton’s entry price but does not include a VPN. In FPS testing with Cyberpunk 2077, Norton showed a 2-3% drop, Bitdefender a 0-2% decrease, and Malwarebytes under 1%. Norton uses a hybrid detection model, Bitdefender employs cloud-based scanning, and Malwarebytes focuses on behavior-based detection. Norton offers gamer-tag dark web monitoring and a bundled VPN, while Bitdefender has limited VPN features on standard tiers and Malwarebytes lacks these protections.

Tech Optimizer

September 25, 2026

Norton 360 for Gamers vs Bitdefender vs Malwarebytes [2026]

Norton, Bitdefender, and Malwarebytes have adjusted their antivirus products to mitigate the negative effects on gaming performance. In June 2026, Norton 360 and Bitdefender Total Security both received a perfect AV-TEST score of 18 out of 18, while Malwarebytes achieved a 100% real-world protection rate in AV-Comparatives testing, though it had more false positives. Bitdefender Total Security is recommended for gamers due to its low frame-rate impact of 0-2%, while Norton 360 offers features for streamers and competitive players, and Malwarebytes serves as a lightweight secondary scanner. The value of gaming accounts has increased, making them targets for cybercriminals, with malware campaigns like Vidar 2.0 accounting for 41% of gaming-related malware detections. New malware families such as Katz and Bee specifically target Discord and gaming platforms. In terms of performance, Norton showed a 2-3% FPS decrease in Cyberpunk 2077, while Bitdefender's impact was only 0-2%, and Malwarebytes had less than 1% impact. Norton and Bitdefender are tied in detection capabilities, both scoring 18/18 in AV-TEST, while Malwarebytes had a 92.4% offline detection rate and 98.3% online. Norton includes a no-log VPN and gamer-tag monitoring, while Bitdefender offers identity protection without specific gamer-tag monitoring. Malwarebytes lacks a VPN and password manager. Pricing varies, with Norton starting at .99 for three devices, Bitdefender at .99 for one device, and Malwarebytes at .99 for one device. To switch antivirus solutions, users should back up their license keys, use removal tools, and ensure game-aware modes are active. Each product has unique strengths: Norton excels in gamer-tag monitoring, Bitdefender minimizes CPU usage, and Malwarebytes is lightweight but lacks additional features.

Tech Optimizer

September 25, 2026

We Tested 10 Best Antivirus Software for 2026

Cybersecurity threats are on the rise, with Verizon’s 2026 Data Breach Investigations Report indicating that 48% of breaches involve ransomware and 31% arise from software vulnerabilities. A review of leading antivirus programs assessed their effectiveness against various threats. Top antivirus software includes: - Bitdefender: Best overall, effective against various threats, perfect score from AV-TEST. - Norton 360: Best all-in-one suite, includes VPN and parental controls, perfect score from AV-TEST. - McAfee+ Premium: Best for families, unlimited device coverage, full marks from AV-TEST. - Malwarebytes: Best for simple protection, user-friendly interface, rated 5.5/6 by AV-TEST. - ESET NOD32: Best for advanced users, lightweight and fast, includes Gamer Mode. - Avast: Best free option, offers various scanning options, straightforward upgrade path. - Microsoft Defender: Built-in for Windows, essential protection, perfect score from AV-TEST. - Intego ONE: Best for Mac users, includes firewall and VPN. - Surfshark Antivirus: Combines antivirus and VPN services, real-time protection. - TotalAV: Best for beginners, combines antivirus with web security tools. The evaluation process included lab data from AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives, hands-on experience, and criteria such as malware protection, false positives, system performance impact, phishing protection, ease of use, platform coverage, additional security features, and pricing. Key metrics from antivirus lab tests include protection scores, false positives, and performance impact. The choice between antivirus software and internet security suites depends on individual needs. Antivirus software remains necessary, especially for Windows PCs, to complement other security measures.

Tech Optimizer

September 24, 2026

Norton antivirus software maker in talks to acquire GoDaddy – Domain Name Wire

Gen Digital, the parent company of Norton 360, is in preliminary discussions to acquire GoDaddy. Gen Digital was formed in 2022 from the merger of NortonLifeLock and Avast and had a market capitalization of .7 billion before the acquisition news. GoDaddy had a market cap of .2 billion. Following the announcement, Gen Digital's stock fell by 7%, reducing its market cap to .6 billion, while GoDaddy's stock rose by over 13%, increasing its market cap to .6 billion. Concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence on GoDaddy's business model have affected its stock performance, leading to speculation that other companies may consider acquiring GoDaddy, potentially resulting in the company transitioning to private ownership.