Cybercriminals are constantly changing their Go Here tactics, which is why you need a complete antivirus program to protect yourself from the most recent threats. A good antivirus program can scan, detect and delete viruses and trojan horses, worms, and spyware. And some programs also include additional security options, like a virtual private network as well as password management, parental controls and phishing protection.

Antivirus software should also shield you from keyloggers and rootkits that secretly track every word you input on your keyboard including passwords and credit card numbers. It should also protect against ransomware, which can hijack your computer and keep files in limbo until you pay a ransom.

The most reliable antivirus software will be able to detect high rates for known malware, and consistently high scores in independent labs of testing. A robust security suite also comes with other safety features, like a detection system based on algorithms that look for the types of behavior that viruses are known to exhibit. It should also include security features like firewalls, and some applications have a sandboxing feature that allows you to run potentially harmful programs in a virtual setting that will not cause harm.

A reliable antivirus program updates frequently, usually once or twice a day. It should also be compatible with a range of devices, from PCs and Macs to smartphones and smart homes. The price of antivirus programs varies in some cases, with some offering low beginning rates. Some antivirus programs charge monthly or annually, whereas others charge per device. The price of a program should be based on the variety of devices and types it protects, the frequency of updates and its user-friendliness, and other safety features.