Malwarebytes claims to be able to replace your traditional antivirus entirely, but we disagree with this. It also contains anti-ransomware, to block extortion attacks like CryptoLocker. The latest version of Malwarebytes combines these three tools into one easy-to-use package for a low yearly fee. As of version 3.0, it also contains an anti-exploit feature, which aims to block common exploits in programs, even if they are zero-day attacks that have never seen before - like those nasty Flash zero-day attacks. Unlike traditional antivirus programs, Malwarebytes is good at finding “potentially unwanted programs” (PUPs) and other junkware. Just look at all the extra garbage Avast tries to install alongside its antivirus. Something that protects you against viruses but opens you up to other vectors of attack is not good security. Furthermore, the way they hook themselves into your browser and operating system often causes more problems than it solves. Other antivirus programs may occasionally do a bit better in monthly tests, but they also come with a lot of bloat, like browser extensions that actually make you less safe, registry cleaners that are terrible and unnecesary, loads of unsafe junkware, and even the ability to track your browsing habits so they can make money. RELATED: Beware: Free Antivirus Isn't Really Free Anymoreįurthermore, security is about more than raw protection scores.

It’s up there with the best third-party antivirus options. Its performance in the preceding months was comparably excellent - it has had perfect protection scores for almost two years. AV-TEST found that it caught 100% of the “widespread and prevalent malware” in January and February of 2022, along with 100% percent of the zero-day attacks in the same time frame. What if you want to use something else?įirst, let’s look at those scores. If you look at that antivirus comparison we linked to above, you’ll notice that Microsoft Defender - while excellent - has some stiff competition. But Is Microsoft Defender the Best Antivirus? What About Other Programs? So in short, yes: Microsoft Defender is good enough (as long as you couple it with a good anti-malware program, as we mentioned above - more on that in a minute).

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