Free antivirus apps can protect your PC from common threats—but paid software often adds stronger defenses, extra tools, and peace of mind. I'm here to walk you through the differences.

When the IBM PC was new, I served as the president of the San Francisco PC User Group for three years. That’s how I met PCMag’s editorial team, who brought me on board in 1986. In the years since that ...

Android malware threats escalated 30% in 2025, exploiting sideloaded APKs, SMS phishing, and unsecured networks. While Google Play Protect blocks the basics, independent antivirus apps catch ...

Looking for a new antivirus? My tried and tested favorites will improve the security of your desktop PC, laptop, and mobile ...

Generally, you don’t need an antivirus app on your Android phone if you play it safe, only download apps from the Play Store, and keep your security settings enabled. However, some like to take a walk ...

Windows 11 users face growing cyber threats, from ransomware and phishing to occasional zero-day exploits. Choosing the right antivirus is no longer ...

David Nield is a technology journalist from Manchester in the U.K. who has been writing about gadgets and apps for more than 20 years. He has a bachelor's degree in English Literature from Durham ...

Shopping for the best antivirus software for you is not easy. For starters, the entire security field is going through a ...