malware detection Archives

Tech Optimizer

August 15, 2025

Best Free Antivirus Software for 2025 | Top Picks & Reviews

eSecurity Planet maintains an editorially independent stance regarding content and product recommendations, with potential revenue generated from partner links. In 2025, the landscape of free antivirus software includes notable options such as: - Bitdefender Antivirus Free: - Best for users seeking reliable, hands-off protection. - Pros: High malware detection scores, minimal system impact, clean interface, automatic updates, low false-positive rate. - Cons: No control over advanced settings, no firewall or password manager. - Avast One Essentials: - Best for users wanting all-in-one protection. - Pros: Real-time protection, limited VPN and firewall, device cleanup tools, modern dashboard, multi-platform compatibility. - Cons: VPN limited to 5 GB per week, scrutiny over data privacy. - AVG AntiVirus Free: - Best for users preferring a classic interface. - Pros: Excellent malware protection, performance scan tool, file shredder, custom scan scheduling, fewer ads. - Cons: No VPN or firewall, outdated user interface. - Malwarebytes Free: - Best for users needing to clean infected devices. - Pros: Exceptional at scanning for rootkits, fast scan times, effective against ransomware, simple interface, low false positive rate. - Cons: No real-time protection, not a standalone solution. - McAfee (Free Trial): - Best for users wanting to test full-suite protection. - Pros: Access to full suite, protects multiple devices, clean interface, strong anti-phishing scores. - Cons: Trial expires after 30 days, may slow down older systems. The evaluation methodology focused on protection, usability, performance, free value, and trust to highlight effective free antivirus software. The top recommendations include Bitdefender Antivirus Free, Avast One Essentials for feature set, and Malwarebytes Free as an essential add-on.

Tech Optimizer

August 15, 2025

The best antivirus software 2025

Antivirus software enhances security for desktop PCs, laptops, and mobile devices, protecting against threats like phishing, ransomware, and malware. Modern solutions provide alerts for untrusted websites and conduct regular scans. Bitdefender Total Security is recommended as the top antivirus, compatible with multiple platforms and offering features like anti-phishing protection and a built-in VPN. Norton Antivirus Plus provides real-time protection for one device and includes a firewall and cloud backup. McAfee offers antivirus protection across various platforms with additional features like a VPN and password manager. Surfshark provides basic antivirus functionality within its VPN packages. ESET Protect is tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering customizable security solutions. AVG offers a robust free antivirus option with thorough scanning capabilities. Prices for these antivirus solutions vary, with some offering free plans and others requiring annual subscriptions.

Tech Optimizer

August 6, 2025

Avast Named Best Antivirus by Software Experts for Multi-Platform Protection.

Avast has been recognized as the Best Antivirus by Software Experts for its strong threat detection, broad platform support, and comprehensive privacy features. It offers real-time antivirus, privacy, and performance solutions for consumers and businesses across multiple devices. Avast Premium Security includes malware detection, phishing protection, ransomware shields, and web threat prevention, with subscription options for single or multiple devices. The newly introduced Scam Guardian Pro features AI-driven components: Avast Assistant for real-time guidance, Web Guard for scanning website content, and Email Guard for flagging dangerous emails. Avast Ultimate combines Premium Security with SecureLine VPN, AntiTrack, and Cleanup Premium for enhanced protection and performance. In 2024, Avast received the Best MacOS Security Award from AV-Test and achieved a perfect score in protection, performance, and usability. In 2023, it was recognized as a Top-Rated Product by AV-Comparatives and received an A+ grade from Virus Bulletin for its high malware detection rate. Avast serves over 435 million users globally and is certified by multiple independent laboratories.

Tech Optimizer

August 2, 2025

Best Antivirus (August 2025): Avast Named Top Cybersecurity Software by Software Experts

Avast has been recognized as the Best Antivirus by Software Experts for its robust threat detection capabilities and extensive platform support. The software offers real-time antivirus protection, privacy enhancements, and performance solutions for consumers and businesses. Avast Premium Security includes features like malware detection, phishing protection, ransomware shields, and web threat prevention, with subscription options for single or multiple devices. The newly introduced Scam Guardian Pro provides AI-driven defenses against online scams, featuring Avast Assistant, Web Guard, and Email Guard. Avast Ultimate combines Premium Security with SecureLine VPN, AntiTrack, and Cleanup Premium for comprehensive protection. In 2024, Avast received the Best MacOS Security Award from AV-Test and achieved a perfect score in protection, performance, and usability. In 2023, it was recognized as a Top-Rated Product by AV-Comparatives, earning Advanced+ ratings and Gold awards. Avast also received an A+ grade from Virus Bulletin for a 99.69 percent malware detection rate. The software is used by over 435 million users globally and has certifications from various independent labs.

Tech Optimizer

August 2, 2025

Best Antivirus Software 2025 Revealed: Why Experts Crown Avast as Ultimate Security Champion

Software Experts has recognized Avast as the Best Antivirus in its latest evaluation, highlighting its exceptional threat detection capabilities, extensive platform support, and comprehensive privacy features. Avast offers real-time antivirus, privacy, and performance solutions across various devices, including a multi-device plan that accommodates up to 10 devices. The newly introduced Scam Guardian Pro feature provides multi-layered defense against online scams. Avast Ultimate includes Premium Security, SecureLine VPN, AntiTrack, and Cleanup Premium for enhanced protection and performance. Avast has received multiple third-party certifications, including the Best MacOS Security Award from AV-Test in 2024 and a perfect score of 30 out of 30 in protection, performance, and usability. In 2023, it was recognized as a Top-Rated Product by AV-Comparatives and awarded an A+ grade by Virus Bulletin for its malware detection rate. Avast's software supports over 435 million users globally and has been certified by leading independent laboratories.

Tech Optimizer

July 31, 2025

Malwarebytes 5.3.5.204

Malwarebytes has launched version 5.xx of its anti-malware application, enhancing its capabilities to provide a robust alternative to traditional antivirus solutions. The new version features a unified user experience across desktop and mobile platforms, modern security and privacy integrations including an ultra-fast VPN, and a Trusted Advisor feature that offers real-time insights and guidance. The changelog for version 5.3.5.204 includes the introduction of a Deep Scan, a preview of the new Windows Firewall Control feature, a revamped Dashboard layout for the free version, and fixes for minor usability and localization issues. The software is available for download at 397.0 MB, with both free and paid upgrade options.

Tech Optimizer

July 31, 2025

Mac Antivirus Battle: Independent Tests Crown Avast Best Protection Against Rising Malware Threats

Software Experts has recognized Avast Premium Security and Avast Ultimate as top malware protection solutions for Mac users. This acknowledgment comes amid rising cybersecurity threats targeting Apple devices. Avast is known for its comprehensive digital protection, offering antivirus, privacy, and performance tools. Despite macOS's built-in security features, experts recommend third-party protection due to increasing cyber threats. In its 2025 analysis, Software Experts evaluated Avast's performance in malware protection, usability, real-world effectiveness, and feature set, with Avast excelling in all areas. Avast Premium Security includes defenses against viruses, spyware, ransomware, and phishing threats, featuring real-time malware detection and alerts for insecure Wi-Fi networks. The newly introduced Scam Guardian Pro enhances protection against online scams with AI-driven tools. Avast Ultimate extends its offerings to a multi-device solution, including a VPN, device performance optimizer, and anti-tracking tool. In 2024, AV-Test awarded Avast the Best macOS Security Award for Consumer Users, and AV-Comparatives recognized it as a Top-Rated Product in 2023. Avast's Ransomware Shield protects personal files from unauthorized modifications, and both products are available as single-device or multi-device subscriptions. Avast's Stay Safe Virus Guarantee provides virus removal support and a refund if malware cannot be eliminated. The review emphasizes the need for reliable cybersecurity software as online threats evolve, highlighting Avast's combination of antivirus protection, privacy tools, and device optimization.

Tech Optimizer

July 25, 2025

Best antivirus software for Windows in 2025

Microsoft Defender is the most suitable free antivirus solution for most users, integrated into Windows 10 and 11 by default. It requires no additional effort from users, making it a convenient choice for everyday protection. For paid antivirus options, Bitdefender Total Security is priced from .99 or £49.99 annually for up to five devices, offering extensive features including malware detection, a VPN, and parental controls. Avast One starts at .88 or £32.49 per year for three devices and has a high malware detection rate, along with a built-in firewall and VPN functionality. F-Secure Total begins at .99 or £59.99 per year for one device, providing network protection at the router level and alerting users about compromised services.

Tech Optimizer

July 18, 2025

ESET vs Avast: Which antivirus is better in 2025?

ESET and Avast are leading antivirus software providers, each offering solutions for individual and business users. ESET features real-time threat detection with a multi-layered engine that includes advanced heuristics and machine learning, achieving high marks in independent tests for catching new threats. Its firewall allows granular control over network traffic and includes a Learning Mode for initial configuration. Identity theft protection is available only in its Ultimate tier, focusing on proactive monitoring. ESET includes a VPN in its highest-tier solution and provides a password manager compatible with multiple platforms. Parental controls include content filtering and activity logging. ESET is recognized for minimal impact on system performance, scoring 5.5 out of 6 in performance tests. Avast offers strong malware detection with a vast threat intelligence network, achieving near-perfect detection rates. Its firewall protects against network attacks and is integrated into the Avast One suite. Identity theft protection is included across all plans, with advanced features in higher tiers. Avast bundles its VPN across all offerings and does not provide a traditional password manager but alerts users about compromised credentials. It lacks built-in parental controls but offers supplementary features. Avast scored a perfect 6 in performance tests. Both ESET and Avast scored highly in protection and usability during AV-Test trials, with Avast achieving a 97.7% offline and 99.3% online detection rate, while ESET recorded 96.5% offline and 97.2% online detection rates. ESET's pricing is customizable, starting at .99 for a single device, while Avast offers a free Basic tier and starts its premium plans at .88 for three devices.

Tech Optimizer

July 11, 2025

Google fixes another Chrome security flaw being actively exploited

Google has addressed a critical vulnerability in its Chrome browser, identified as CVE-2025-6554, which is the fourth zero-day exploit uncovered this year. This high-severity flaw originates from a type confusion bug within Chrome's V8 JavaScript engine, allowing attackers to execute malicious code or access sensitive areas of a system. Google has rolled out an emergency update for Chrome users across Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms. The latest stable versions addressing this exploit are 138.0.7204.96/.97 for Windows, 138.0.7204.92/.93 for Mac, and 138.0.7204.96 for Linux. Users are urged to update their browsers and verify they are running the most recent version. Additionally, it is recommended to install reliable antivirus software for enhanced protection against cyber threats.