Hundreds are used anywhere and everywhere by people, making Windows a prime target of hackers and malware. We have tons of personal data on our PCs, so investing in good antivirus software is extremely important.
Malware, ransomware, spyware, viruses, and other bad actors can try to access you or hurt you in many ways. Luckily, you don’t have to search the internet all day to find the best one. Look at some of the best free antivirus software for Windows 11.
Best Antivirus Software for Windows 11 (Free)
The antivirus programs included on this list are completely free, and they don’t even need you to provide your credit card details to try them. However, the built-in Windows Security app will do a fine job for most Windows 11 users.
Windows Security
The free antivirus you need for your PC is included with Windows Security. Previously known as Microsoft Defender, Windows Security is a space where our files and when we download files are continuously scanned and searched for malware.
It also offers a few app security features, such as Smart App Control and reputation protection, which ensures malicious apps do not access your files and websites. Windows Security also ensures that your Firewall is OK and performs device performance and health checks. One cool thing about Windows Security is that it does not use many system resources.
Pros
- Free access
- Full security
- Regular updates
- Continuous protection
- Efficient performance
Cons
- None
Bitdefender
Free antivirus Bitdefender promises to be ‘impossible to light’ software that will never slow down your PC. The software uses more than 700 MB of RAM (not ‘lightweight’ by any stretch of the imagination). Bitdefender was setting itself up too suspiciously long, but what it ended liked on its paid plans.
But with Avast, you have missed out on vulnerability scanning and firewall protection. Furthermore, it runs alongside Windows Security and does not interfere with its function—as Avast’s software does.
Pros
- Free scans
- User-friendly
- Internet security
Cons
- Heavy on system
- No firewall
- Limited scan options
Avast Free Antivirus
If you are looking for a free Windows antivirus, Avast Antivirus is one of the popular options for good reason. It provides real-time protection against viruses, ransomware, spyware, and new and old malware. Besides those, deep rootkit scanning and more protection features are available with the zero-cost Avast Free Antivirus.
During installation, ensure you don’t select the minimum setup to keep less memory eating; just install basic protection. The software does attempt to foresee the things you will be using by installing extra bloatware like browser extensions and other features while installing, something that, if not paid attention to while the process proceeds, can become quite annoying.
Pros
- Comprehensive antivirus
- Live threat defense
- Strong malware detection
- Multiple security tools
Cons
- Excessive software clutter
- Consumes system resources
Avira Free Security
With Avira, you can get real-time defense against threats, spyware, malware, and more. Its threat definitions are constantly updated, and it’s beyond doubt. Avira and Windows Security don’t cause problems like other antiviruses on this list, and they consume the fewest resources of any antivirus mentioned above.
Pros
- Live malware defense
- Consistently updated
- Works with Windows Security
- No cost
Cons
- Lacks web and ransomware protection (free)
- Adds unwanted browser extensions
