Why should you use antivirus software for your Windows device?

We live in an increasingly complex environment that requires us to actively protect our connected devices from all kinds of threats, around the clock. Whether it concerns internet browsing protection, secure interfacing between our different devices, or safe interconnection with our cloud platforms: antivirus programs are busy on many different platforms, working overtime by default. It might not seem obvious, but the main reason for many of our modern computers’ problems is actually the complete absence of a good antivirus software package or antivirus software that has expired or wasn’t updated properly. Potentially dangerous situations, often overlooked or underestimated, that can have a severe impact on the safety of our devices and the data on them. Viruses can potentially infect other computers or devices since they have the ability to jump from device to device, for example when transported via email, through a local network connection, via SMS and other messenger services, and even through storage devices such as USB drives or sticks. They can cause real havoc, which can go as far as stealing data or even money from the infected device’s user. According to recent statistics, a hacker attack takes place every 39 seconds, affecting one in three Americans per year. Nearly 73 percent of all Americans have fallen victim to some type of cybercrime at least once. To be safe from these threats it is absolutely vital to equip a Windows device with a quality antivirus software package in order to have it protected at all times. The importance of antivirus software cannot be stressed enough and should never be underestimated.

How to compare Antivirus software?

During our research on antivirus software, we’ve identified five key criteria for you to consider when choosing an antivirus software package:

1. Does the antivirus software protect my Windows device against viruses, ransomware, Trojans and other malware?
2. Does it significantly impact the Windows device’s processing speed?
3. Does it protect my Windows device 24/7?
4. Does it come with extra protection features such as password managers and VPN?
5. Can the software be used on my other devices, even when running on different operating systems?

Before making a final decision, ask yourself: does the antivirus software offer the option to not simply protect my Windows device, but to do it real-time, without interfering with the device’s performance? Does it come with any extra protection features? Finally, consider the necessary investments you need to make in terms of money and time to get the software up and running.