Table of Contents
Introduction
The best cybersecurity software provides comprehensive protection against malware, phishing attacks, and other cyber threats for all your devices, including PCs, Macs, iPhones, and Android devices. While premium software packages may come at a higher price, they offer additional services such as password managers, VPNs, cloud backup software, and identity theft protection, making them worth the investment. Some of the best cybersecurity software even include features like parental control software, webcam protection, and two-way firewalls, making them ideal for families or individuals who use multiple devices.
The Quick List
Here is a quick overview of the best cybersecurity software available in the market today, along with the features they offer. Whether you’re looking for basic protection or comprehensive coverage, there’s something for every budget.
- Norton 360 with LifeLock Ultimate Plus: Offers a wide range of security features, including unlimited password manager, VPN, parental controls, cloud backup, and identity theft protection.
- Bitdefender Premium Security: Provides excellent malware detection, an unlimited VPN, and additional features like ransomware rollbacks, a secure web browser, and anti-theft software.
- McAfee Total Protection Ultimate: Offers protection for up to 10 devices, including password manager, VPN, parental controls, and identity theft protection.
- Trend Micro Premium Security: Provides password manager, VPN, parental controls, and ID protection across multiple platforms.
- ESET Smart Security Premium: Offers a lightweight and efficient solution with features like password manager, parental controls, webcam protection, and home network management.
- Kaspersky Total Security: Known for its unbeatable malware protection, it also offers a password manager, parental controls, and unique protection against “stalkerware.”
Norton 360 with LifeLock Ultimate Plus
Norton 360 with LifeLock Ultimate Plus is the top choice for comprehensive cybersecurity protection. It includes all the necessary security features, such as unlimited password manager, VPN, parental controls, cloud backup, and identity theft protection. Norton 360 also offers excellent malware protection, its own firewall, dedicated webcam protection, and can be installed on an unlimited number of devices. However, the parental controls and cloud backup service do not work on Mac devices, and the 500GB backup space may fill up quickly if you have multiple PCs. The price is higher compared to other premium antivirus suites, but if you need all the extra features and can afford it, Norton 360 with LifeLock Ultimate Plus is worth considering.
Bitdefender Premium Security
Bitdefender Premium Security is an excellent choice for users who don’t need identity theft protection or cloud backup software but require an unlimited VPN. It offers strong malware detection, an easy-to-use interface, and a wide range of additional features. These features include ransomware rollbacks, a secure web browser for online banking, anti-theft software, and a file shredder. Bitdefender Premium Security also provides parental controls for all major platforms, but the unlimited password manager and dedicated webcam and microphone protections are only available on Windows.
McAfee Total Protection Ultimate
McAfee Total Protection Ultimate is a cost-effective alternative to Norton with similar security features. It includes identity theft protection, password manager, unlimited VPN, and very good malware protection. The package also offers McAfee’s protection against malware, Safe Kids parental controls, file encryption, file shredding, a firewall, and unlimited VPN service for up to five devices. The downside is that the VPN and parental controls do not work on Macs, and there is no webcam protection, hardened browser, or backup software. Overall, if you’re looking for all-encompassing protection at a lower price, McAfee Total Protection Ultimate is a good choice.
Trend Micro Premium Security
Trend Micro Premium Security is a multi-platform solution that offers a password manager, unlimited VPN service, and parental controls for Mac, PC, Android, and iOS devices. It also includes “ID Protection,” which monitors the dark web for your data. On the antivirus side, Trend Micro performs well in malware detection tests and provides ransomware rollbacks, a file shredder, file encryption, and a system optimizer. However, it can have a significant impact on system resources during full scans.
ESET Smart Security Premium
ESET Smart Security Premium is a lightweight and efficient cybersecurity suite that offers a password manager, parental controls, anti-theft protections for laptops, dedicated webcam protection, a secure browser, and home network management software. It also provides antivirus software for Linux machines and performs well in malware detection tests. The parental controls do not work on iOS devices, but ESET’s pricing is flexible, starting at $60 per year for one device and adding $10 for each additional device.
Kaspersky Total Security
Kaspersky Total Security is known for its unbeatable malware protection and offers a range of additional features. It includes a password manager, parental controls, anti-theft features for laptops, a secure browser mode for online banking, and protection against “stalkerware.” Kaspersky’s password manager works across all major platforms, and its parental controls are second only to Norton’s. However, the package does not include an unlimited VPN, and the backup software requires users to use their own Dropbox account.
Conclusion
When choosing the best cybersecurity software for your needs, consider your personal circumstances and the features that are important to you. Password managers are a useful tool for everyone, while parental control software may be essential for families with young children or teenagers. Identity theft protection and VPNs are valuable for individuals with specific needs, such as frequent travelers. By investing in a comprehensive cybersecurity suite, you can protect all your devices and enjoy peace of mind online.
