How to choose antivirus software
Updated November 1, 2026
Most modern antivirus engines catch common threats well. What really separates the suites is device coverage and extras.
Step by step
- Count your devices: PCs, Macs, phones and tablets.
- Decide which extras you'd actually use: VPN, password manager, cloud backup, identity monitoring.
- Pick the lightest product that covers both. Older PCs benefit from Webroot's cloud-based scanning.
- Uninstall your old antivirus before installing the new one.
