Do you need an antivirus program on Windows?

Also, don’t underestimate the importance of updating your browser and Windows itself. A significant amount of malware exploits older software, so Microsoft and browser makers are continually releasing updates to patch holes and fix vulnerabilities. If you’re using the latest version of Windows and the latest version of your browser, that’s another line of defense.

Antivirus software typically adds several extras to its offering, though this varies by package: you might get a VPN included, for example, as well as parental controls, a password manager, and secure cloud storage for your files. There are also often monitoring tools to detect hacks and data leaks that could include your personal information (from credit card numbers to login credentials).

Dedicated antivirus programs are often more proactive than the Windows solution itself, scanning incoming data as it arrives on the network and looking for connected devices, like smart home gadgets, that may not have comprehensive privacy and security protections. As Windows’ built-in antivirus tool has improved, these third-party options have evolved to offer more and more features.

Do you need an antivirus program?

Antivirus packages cover multiple devices with multiple features.

Courtesy of Norton

There is no simple answer to the question of whether you need an antivirus program on Windows. It is your choice, and if you choose to do without it, you do so at your own risk. Products from industry leaders like Bitdefender and Norton are certainly effective and reliable in preventing malicious code from entering your Windows system.

At the same time, an up-to-date version of Windows, Windows security software, and an up-to-date web browser are a pretty robust setup for most users, and one that many viruses and other malware will have a hard time getting around. Your online activities also affect your security: spend a lot of time watching and downloading pirated content, for example, and your risk level increases.

It’s a lot like driving, in some ways. Stick to the speed limit, keep your eyes on the road, follow signs, stick to the parts of town you know best, and you’ll stay out of trouble most of the time. But you’ll be even safer in an armored car with a police escort.

It should be noted that none of these configurations guarantees your 100% security at all times. Furthermore, it is ironic that installing an antivirus program sometimes carries its own security risks.

What is certain is that an antivirus program is no longer a must-have on a modern Windows system. Nor is it the first application you should install. These antivirus packages are now add-ons, giving you extra peace of mind and additional features that you might consider useful for your setup.