It could also include a password manager, secure online backup, identity theft protection, a VPN, parental control, webcam protection, protection against phishing and malicious websites and more - all worthwhile tools that can keep your data secure and guard your privacy. A full AV software protection package can monitor your Windows operating system as well as MacOS, iOS and Android devices. However, keeping your personal data safe and guarding your privacy extends beyond virus protection, and that's where third-party antivirus software shines. (Amazingly, Microsoft provided no built-in protection for Windows back in the days of Windows 95, 98 and XP.) Using Microsoft Defender for threat detection should be your starting point for antivirus security on Windows and most people will find they don't need to go any further when it comes to identity theft protection. If you're looking for malware protection and antivirus software with the best security features, here's the first thing you need to know: Microsoft Defender Antivirus - the free antivirus software and virus protection program that comes with Windows 10 - is a decent tool for protecting your PC and offering internet security. It should also offer a secure browser experience in the process. You want a program that includes features like malware protection, that monitors downloads and that observes your system's activity for malicious software and suspicious behavior. This is why anyone with a Windows PC should install antivirus software the moment it's out of the box - and update it regularly to stay ahead.īut what makes a good antivirus software? And how can you be sure you're staying ahead of the cyber criminals who always seem to find a savvy workaround to increasingly complicated security measures? Well, first you can acquaint yourself with what sets apart the good from the best. If a cyber criminal or virus makes it through your defenses, it can lead to chaos such as identity theft.

While there are lots of reasons to invest in antivirus software, it boils down to this: Antivirus software is an essential tool for identity protection, and there's just too much personal information on your computer these days to risk not having it.

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