12 Best Free Antivirus Without Ads [The Antivirus Experts have Spoken]

Most computer users know that their devices need to be protected from the numerous threats of the modern web by using an antivirus. While many free antivirus programs are available, many operate by pestering you to upgrade to the paid version or bug you with numerous ads.

To this end, we have compiled a list of the best free Antivirus without ads you can install today. This will enable you to enjoy security without dealing with annoying ads.

In a hurry? Here is a summary of the review

• Bitdefender Free antivirus – Virus shield, auto scan, malware threat protection, and real-time protection.
• Total AV – VPN features, ad blocker, system optimization, and solid malware protection.
• Guard.io – Real-time protection, anti-phishing features, compatibility across multiple browsers, and great anti-virus protection.
• AVG AntiVirus Free – File shredder, web shield, CyberCapture feature, and file shield.
• ESET Internet Security – Exploit blocker, user-friendly, anti-virus and spyware protection, and webcam protection feature.
• Avira – Great security features, VPN features, adware blocker, and anti-phishing.
• Kaspersky – Do not disturb mode, anti-ransomware feature, robust scanner, and a solid firewall.
• Panda – Real-time protection, VPN features, automatic update, and great security features.
• Avast Free AntiVirus – Junk file cleaner, password manager, Wi-Fi inspector, and numerous customization options.
• Sophos Home – Remote checkup, remote scanning, parental control, and compatibility across various operating systems.
• Emsisoft Anti-malware – Works great with outdated system versions, solid security features, anti-ransomware, and restoration features.
• Windows Defender – Controlled folder access, preinstalled and free, solid malware detection, and ad-free.

Is there an actually free antivirus?

Yes, numerous free antivirus are available for you to install, and this article will guide you in choosing the best options in the market.

What are the best free Antivirus I can use without ads?

1. Bitdefender Free antivirus – Real-time protection

It is fair to say that Bitdefender is currently one of the top ad-free antivirus programs available. Use this application for comprehensive system defense against threats and to prevent malware from infecting your computer.

The free version provides real-time protection against recognized virus signatures and is powered by the same antivirus engine as the paid versions.

You can use your computer without worrying about being slow because Bitdefender’s free edition is comparatively quick and responsive and uses little of your system resources.

The free version of Bitdefender consistently receives high praise for offering a smooth gaming and streaming experience without lag or scanning pauses.

You can turn on Virus Shield and Auto Scan, log in to a My Bitdefender account if you have one, and browse the Logs, which also manage Events and Quarantine lists.

The drawback is that it lacks customization options and extra features. The application can quickly scan a hard drive and has adequate security. It functions in the background silently and is more of an install-and-forget program.

Some important features of Bitdefender Free antivirus include:

• Virus shield
• Auto scan
• Malware threat protection
• Real-time protection

2. Total AV – Web Shield

TotalAV is an antivirus software that offers an extensive feature set. In addition to keeping your system safe, it will be optimized for a quick response time.

Don’t be concerned about attempts to steal your data while browsing the web because this award-winning antivirus protects every aspect of your device.

Remove malware, and scan all installs, downloads, and executables for viruses before using them. Additionally, all data is secured across all platforms with multi-device compatibility.

TotalAV comes with a VPN and an ad blocker integrated into it, one of its key features uncommon in antivirus software. Your data will always be anonymous, and you won’t ever see advertisements or pop-up windows again.

Another fantastic feature that will make browsing the internet secure for you and anyone else using your computer is WebShield. Real-time search results verification will let you know which websites are reliable. Additionally, before you access any fraudulent websites, it will block them.

By offering users tools to tune up their operating systems, TotalAV considers system maintenance.

To keep your system clean each time you use it, this software will remove junk files, duplicate files, and applications down. It will also eliminate any malicious extensions from the browser and easily manage cookies, cached data, and history.

TotalAV is a comprehensive first line of defense against threats attempting to access your personal information, financial information, or other sensitive data.

You must select the most comprehensive subscription plan from among TotalAV’s 3 available options if you want all of the features listed above.

Some important features of Bitdefender Free antivirus include:

• VPN features
• Ad blocker
• System optimization
• Solid malware protection

3. Guard.io – Solid malware protection

Guard.io is not your typical antivirus program, instead, it is a browser extension that uses antivirus-like technologies to fend off online threats. By blocking malicious software before it even reaches your browser, it can prevent your system from being infected.

Regardless of whether they originate from the websites you visit or from dubious third-party extensions, the app blocks intrusive browser notifications.

Although the web is where cybercriminals most frequently gather the materials for their harmful attacks, this app is highly accurate at spotting them. Guard.io excels at anti-phishing technologies, being able to recognize and warn of fraudulent attempts to obtain your personal information.

These include dubious email attachments, forms on dubious websites, and sneaky browser add-ons that monitor your online behavior and might be able to access your accounts.

It takes only a few minutes to set up the browser extension. You can get it from the company’s official website or the app or extension store for your browser.

Guard.io also offers the crucial advantages of monitoring data breach information and checking your browser for privacy violations. Microsoft Edge, Chrome, and Firefox web browsers all support Guardio.

Some users claim they still experience pop-ups when browsing the internet. The lack of proper installation or configuration of Guardio is evident from this. Ensure Real-Time Protection for Unwanted Notifications is turned on in the dashboard to stop this.

Some important features of Guard.io include:

• Real-time protection
• Anti-phishing features
• Compatible across multiple browsers
• Great anti-virus protection

4. AVG AntiVirus Free – Automatic update

The free antivirus program from AVG is simple to use and easy on the eyes. The scan button is conveniently located in the center of the screen, disabling features is dead simple, and all the advanced options are hidden away in the settings.

Like most antivirus programs, this enables you to schedule scans, check for threats in archives, eliminate viruses immediately upon discovery, scan USB drives, exclude specific files, folders, and websites from scans, and perform boot-time scans.

It’s easy to customize this free AVG antivirus. Installing it gives you the option of having regular protection by leaving the settings alone, or you can enter the settings and modify almost anything.

Select whether to scan all files regardless of content type or file extension, all files regardless of content type, or only files with a file extension that is thought to be potentially dangerous (like EXE).

Enable CyberCapture technology, which identifies threats in unrecognized files, hardcore mode, and rootkit detection.

You can control which AVG components should be enabled or disabled during setup. You can choose between File Shield, Behavior Shield, Web Shield, Email Shield, SafePrice browser extension, File Shredder, Cleanup, and Do Not Disturb Mode.

Additionally, a file shredder tool is available from the right-click context menu, allowing you to overwrite files with various data sanitization techniques.

The official minimum OS specifications call for Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and XP. Additionally, it functions on iOS, Android, and Mac (10.10 Yosemite and newer).

Some important features of AVG antivirus include:

• File shredder
• Web shield
• CyberCapture feature
• File shield

5. ESET Internet Security – Great ad blocker

ESET Internet Security, which offers antivirus and anti-spyware protection and will shield you from various threats like viruses, rootkits, etc., is one of the best antivirus programs without ads.

The application also has anti-phishing features that shield you from hackers trying to steal your login information.

ESET has a ransomware defense feature as well as an exploit blocker that can find malware that tries to elude antivirus programs. A UEFI scanner feature is also available, shielding you from malware that could harm your UEFI but is hidden.

Another important point is how user-friendly this tool makes it ideal for beginners. Of course, advanced users who want to alter their security settings can do so as well.

ESET Internet Security comes with a built-in firewall and parental controls if you need more security. This version also has a Home monitor feature that checks your devices for vulnerabilities.

This version offers banking and payment protection, which will please you if you frequently shop online. A webcam protection feature is also available to shield you from the eyes of nefarious users.

It’s important to note that this version also has a laptop protection feature that enables you to track your laptop using nearby Wi-Fi networks.

Additionally, an anti-theft optimization can stop burglars from altering system settings. Finally, an activity watch feature lets you remotely capture screenshots and webcam images.

Some important features of ESET Internet Security include:

• Exploit blocker
• User friendly
• Anti-virus and spyware protection
• Webcam protection feature

6. Avira – Robust security features

One of the top free antivirus programs available is, without a doubt, Avira Antivirus. Even better, it is completely free and ad-free.

In addition to being free, the software is incredibly potent in terms of cybersecurity because it has robust security features for your network and PC.

Avira additionally offers a free VPN with a fast connection speed and a free PC cleaner designed to optimize your software.

Avira Free Antivirus protects you from malware, phishing, dialers, spyware, adware, and other threats.

One of the best aspects of Avira Free Antivirus is its range of protection, which ranges from the most sophisticated Trojans to antiquated modem dialers that used to eat up your phone bill.

Even though mentioning the layout wizard, which we classified as a pro, may seem strange, it can be very helpful if you know what you’re doing.

For instance, one option allows you to start Avira Free Antivirus immediately during the Windows boot process, giving you more obvious security, or later all time, giving you slightly less security but hastening your boot.

Some important features of Avira include:

• Great security features
• VPN features
• Adware blocker
• Anti-phishing

7. Kaspersky – Solid Firewall technology

Kaspersky is another well-known security program that excels at finding and removing malware.

The user-friendly interface of this antivirus is highly regarded. Right from the main Windows, you can find everything you require.

It employs various strategies to combat cyber threats, including viruses, malware, and hackers, and adheres to the multi-layered protection principle.

The Windows application implements a two-way firewall. This lets you view every device connected to your network in greater detail.

Both incoming and outgoing network connection activity is picked up by it. It also has an effective anti-ransomware monitor that employs particular algorithms to find suspicious app behavior.

Additionally, the Do-Not-Disturb mode in Kaspersky Internet Security will temporarily halt all pop-ups and notifications.

As long as this feature is enabled, you can continue playing games and watching movies without being interrupted by the antivirus, which will protect your system in real-time.

The program has a robust scanner that can perform quick and custom scans in addition to full PC scans.

Some important features of Kaspersky include:

• Do not disturb mode
• Anti-ransomware feature
• Robust scanner
• Solid firewall

8. Panda – Solid anti-virus

Panda Dome Antivirus is another good antivirus program that is free of ads. The basic version protects both Windows and Android devices.

Real-time protection built into the application will automatically quarantine any suspicious applications to safeguard your PC.

Panda Antivirus is a fantastic antivirus overall and has no ads. Several versions are offered; the most fundamental one is cost-free and provides reliable protection.

Suppose you connect to free public Wi-Fi to use it for sensitive information or to make payments. In that case, you also get a free VPN with a daily limit of 150MB to browse anonymously from a single virtual location.

It performs practically all functions transparently and provides a straightforward user interface. Additionally, because it automatically updates itself, you don’t need to re-register it every 12–14 months like with another third-party antivirus.

Some important features of Panda Dome include:

• Real-time protection
• VPN features
• Automatic update
• Great security features

9. Avast Free AntiVirus – Easy to customize

Many “best lists” of antivirus software include Avast, used by hundreds of millions of people and consistently ranks highly. Consider using it if you want a reliable program that will undoubtedly block new threats but is still simple enough to customize.

Like some of the other free AV programs on this list, Avast’s free AV program utilizes supplemental modules to improve the virus shield and offer extra security and privacy-related services.

The antivirus section has many customizable options. However, it’s still simple enough for anyone to use because most options have brief descriptions next to them, so you won’t be left in the dark about what will happen if you enable them.

Additionally, Avast automatically updates its definitions and programs (although there is also a manual option), so you don’t have to worry about running the most recent version or not.

The customizable features of Avast allow you to alter everything from the types of file extensions that should be scanned to whether or not a sound should be made when threats are detected and how long notifications should remain on the screen.

You can choose to include more than a dozen tools before Avast is installed, including file, behavior, web, and mail shields, software updater, browser clean, rescue disk, Wi-Fi inspector, security and SafePrice browser extensions, password manager, junk file cleaner, and game mode.

However, the Cleanup tool and password manager are only available in trial versions, which expire after a set amount of time. The free version also makes the firewall, file shredder, and sandbox features inaccessible.

Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7 are compatible with Avast Free Antivirus. Additionally, there are versions for iOS, Android, and macOS.

Some important features of Avast Free AntiVirus include:

• Junk file cleaner
• Password manager
• Wi-Fi Inspector
• Numerous customization options

10. Sophos Home – Parental control

One of the best free antivirus programs without ads is Sophos, a well-known security company in the antivirus sector. We advise you to try it if you want a solid antivirus to protect your computer from online threats.

It is a great option for a big family because it can simultaneously protect ten devices. The affordable price of Sophos antivirus, which includes a free trial, is another benefit.

Additionally, it covers a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

In addition to all of the other antivirus features, Sophos Home is enterprise-grade software offering a remote checkup and scanning.

In addition to offering standard antivirus protection, Sophos Home Premium offers strong, real-time defense against the most recent malware, viruses, ransomware, malicious software, hacking attempts, and other threats.

Additionally, it provides mobile management for up to ten devices, parental online filtering, and remote administration.

Some important features of Sophos Home include:

• Remote checkup
• Remote scanning
• Parental control
• Compatible across various operating systems

11. Emsisoft Anti-malware – Cool new anti-malware software

Emsisoft Anti-malware is one of the newest and most innovative antivirus programs you should try out. It distinguishes itself from other top security software with a redesigned user interface, significant upgrades, and a low price.

A crucial point to remember is that it functions properly even on outdated computers. It works extremely well with Windows 10 on both x32 and x64 platforms.

We will count dual-engine scanners, 4-layer protection, cleaning, restoration features, and user-friendliness as some of the most well-known features.

The Anti-Ransomware protection layer can stop ransomware attacks by identifying their behavioral patterns. This indicates that despite attempts to encrypt them, your files are secure and unharmed.

Some important features of Emsisoft anti-Malware include:

• Works great with outdated system versions
• Solid security features
• Anti-ransomware
• Restoration features

12. Windows Defender – Solid malware detection

Windows Defender is one of the best free antivirus programs without ads that protects you and your computer offline and online. It comes installed by default on Windows PCs.

Windows Defender offers strong malware detection capabilities, including defense against ransomware.

Windows Defender AV has a ransomware-specific feature known as controlled folder access (CFA), in addition to having the ability to completely prevent the execution of known and previously unknown ransomware variants.

CFA blocks disk writing by unidentified and shady processes. This essentially makes any ransomware variant ineffective because it cannot encrypt data.

Additionally, Windows Defender is free and pre-installed with Windows, making it a convenient and hassle-free option.

If you only need effective basic protection, this built-in Windows Security tool will do. Other third-party antivirus programs, however, can be quite alluring in their own right due to the additional security and privacy features they offer.

Windows Defender protects you, but if you want more assurance, it’s probably worthwhile to try the best antivirus engines, additional anti-ransomware tools, and other features.

Some important features of Windows Defender include:

• Controlled folder access
• Preinstalled and free
• Solid malware detection
• Ad free

In conclusion, choosing from the options listed in this article will provide solid antivirus software that does not bother you with annoying ads. Without a doubt, these are the best free antivirus without ads you can get on the market.