Cyber threats in 2026 are no longer restricted to viruses. The threats of 2026 are in the form of AI-powered malware attacks, zero-day attacks, phishing attacks, ransomware as a service attacks, and data leaks. It has become a need to pick the best antivirus software.
This Besuretechno in-depth article features the best antivirus for Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, Linux, Chromebooks, Gaming Computers, and for use in the office.” It is also designed with US consumers in mind.
What Constitutes the Best Antivirus Software in 2026?
Modern Antivirus software isn’t just limited to virus scanning these days. In fact, the best internet security software available today includes these important features:
- Threat detection with artificial intelligence
- Defense against malware in real time.
- Cloud Malware Analysis.
- Firewall & network monitoring.
- Protecting your identity against theft.
- VPN & secure browsing.
- Parent Controls
- Business-class endpoint protection
This is why conventional “free virus scanners” are no longer sufficient for most people.
Best Antivirus Software for Windows (Including Windows 11)
Norton 360 Antivirus (Editor’s Choice)
Norton Antivirus is one of the most trusted producers of antivirus software for Windows PCs.
Why Norton 360 is unique:
- Top software for Windows 11.
- World-leading ransomware protection
- “Smart” firewall + intrusion prevention system
- Dark web monitoring (US Social Security numbers and identity focus) Dark web monitoring
- Secure VPN with No Logs Policy
No matter what you choose to call it, whether it is Norton protection or Norton 360, it has always proved to be the best virus protector for a PC.
Best For:
- Home users
- Professionals
- Best PC antivirus
- Best antivirus for HP laptop.
Best Antivirus Software for Mac (Apple Silicon Optimized)
Bitdefender Antivirus for Mac
Macs are no longer safe in 2026. On Macs, attacks using virus-like programs, harmful applications, and ads have risen significantly.
Top features:
- Definitive system slowdown.
- AI threat detection.
- Time Machine protection.
- Anti-phishing & web protection.
This makes it one of the best options for Mac users can utilize to efficiently shield their computers without reducing their performance.
Top Antivirus Software for Android Devices:
Norton 360 for Android
The evolution of Android malware includes banking trojans, spyware, and crypto miners.
Why it’s the best antivirus for Android:
- Best Android virus scanner
- Scanning an app before installing it
- SMS & phishing protection
- Wi-Fi Security Alerts
- Anti-theft functions
It is regarded as the best antivirus software for Android smartphones.
Best Antivirus Software for iPhone (iOS)
Security software remains important in its own right, even if Apple generally bans traditional virus checking.
Norton Mobile Security for iPhone
Best antivirus tools for an iPhone are all about:
- Phishing Protection
- Blocking Malicious Websites
- Wi-Fi network monitoring
- ID protection services
This works well for US users who are worried about data breaches and theft.
Best Antivirus Software for Gaming PC & Gamers
Bitdefender Total Security
Gamers require performance + security.
Why Gamers Love it:
- Dedicated Gaming Mode
- No FPS drop
- Silent background scanning
- Anti-cheating safe
It is always ranked as the best antivirus software for gaming PCs and for gamers.
Best Antivirus Software for Businesses and Small Businesses
Norton Small Business Antivirus
Key Features:
- Multidevice endpoint protection.
- Cloud Management
- Ransomware rollback
- Email & phishing defense
- Device security among employees
Ideal for US start-ups, distributed teams, and small businesses.
Best Antivirus Software for Linux
Sophos Antivirus for Linux
Linux is secure, but not invincible.
Best Features:
- Command-line scanning
- Server protection
- Web filtering
- Real-time malware defense
It’s the most reliable for Linux environments.
Best Antivirus Software for Chromebooks
Malwarebytes (Android-based)
Chromebooks have security features based on Android.
Why it works:
- Lightweight protection
- Browser exploit defense
- Safe Browsing
- Application-level malware blocking
It is regarded as the best antivirus software for Chromebook users in the year 2026.
Best Free Antivirus Software (Who Should Use It?)
Avast Free Antivirus
The best free antivirus software continues to exist, but with restrictions.
Pros:
- Anti-malware software.
- Web security basics.
- For personal users, antivirus protection is free.
Cons:
- Features that avoid malware.
- No such professional tools exist.
Note: The Best free antivirus software for Windows XP was outdated and unsafe in 2026. XP needed to be updated immediately.
Antivirus Software Reviews: Comparison Table (2026)
| Antivirus | Best For | Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| Norton 360 | Overall best | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS |
| Bitdefender | Gamers & performance | Windows, Mac |
| Malwarebytes | Chromebook & cleanup | Windows, Android |
| Sophos | Linux & business | Linux, Windows |
| Avast Free | Basic free protection | Windows |
Kim Komando’s Best Antivirus Software Review
Cybersecurity expert Kim Komando favors Norton 360 Antivirus software for many reasons.
- Identity protection
- Malware protection
- Family security
- Small Businesses
This further enhances Norton’s credibility in antivirus software reviews.
Final Thought: Best Antivirus Software in 2026
Combined Score Winner: Norton 360 Antivirus
Why?
- Top Windows Antivirus Programs
- Best antivirus for Android and iPhone devices
- Best antivirus for business use
- Best US-based identity protection
- Leading Trusted brand with over 25 years of experience in security solutions.
Whether it is your computer, Mac computer, smartphone, gaming computer, or business computer, in the year 2026, the best antivirus software is Norton 360.
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