#1
TotalAV — Best choice for most people
Simple, effective, and easy to use. Protects against viruses, scams, and unsafe websites.
Updated April 2026
The 4 Best Security Apps in 2026 — Tested and Explained Simply
Every day, people lose money, photos, and personal information to online scams and viruses. It can happen through a fake email, a dangerous website, or a program that installs itself quietly.
A good antivirus program works in the background and stops these problems before they cause damage. You do not need to understand how it works. It just protects you.
We tested more than 50 antivirus programs to find the ones that actually work, are easy to use, and will not overwhelm you.
Our top recommendation is TotalAV. It is simple to set up, works on almost any device, and protects you without getting in the way.
Quick picks
Top 4 at a Glance
#2
Surfshark — Best if you have multiple devices
Combines VPN, antivirus, alerts, search, Alternative ID, and identity protection across unlimited devices.
#3
CyberGhost VPN — Best for privacy and VPN value
Focused on private browsing, encrypted traffic, and fast global VPN access across up to 7 devices.
#4
MacKeeper — Best if you have a Mac
Built specifically for Macs with cleanup, antivirus, VPN, ad blocking, and performance tools in one app.
Guide
Table of Contents
Comparison
Comparison Table
All prices are shown in yearly terms where possible. All four options were tested by our team.
| Program | Best for | Works on | Price per year | Refund |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TotalAV | Most people | Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone | from $29 | 30 days |
| Surfshark | Multiple devices + VPN | Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone | from $35.76/year | 30 days |
| CyberGhost VPN | Privacy and VPN value | Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, Linux, Smart TV | from $21/year | 45 days |
| MacKeeper | Mac users | Mac only | from $62.01/year | Money-back guarantee |
TotalAV
- Best for
- Most people
- Works on
- Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone
- Price per year
- from $29
- Refund
- 30 days
Surfshark
- Best for
- Multiple devices + VPN
- Works on
- Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone
- Price per year
- from $35.76/year
- Refund
- 30 days
CyberGhost VPN
- Best for
- Privacy and VPN value
- Works on
- Windows, Mac, Android, iPhone, Linux, Smart TV
- Price per year
- from $21/year
- Refund
- 45 days
MacKeeper
- Best for
- Mac users
- Works on
- Mac only
- Price per year
- from $62.01/year
- Refund
- Money-back guarantee
#1 Best overall
Get TotalAV 1. TotalAV — Best Choice for Most People
TotalAV is the program we recommend most often. It's easy to install, easy to use, and does a very good job of keeping you safe without asking you to understand anything technical.
Once it's running, you don't need to think about it. It works quietly in the background and alerts you only when something actually needs your attention.
What it protects you from
- Viruses and harmful programs that can damage your computer or steal your files
- Fake websites that steal your passwords or bank details
- Unsafe downloads by warning you before you open something dangerous
- Data leaks by telling you if your email address has appeared in a breach
It also includes
- A private internet connection for safer browsing on public Wi-Fi
- Computer cleanup tools that remove junk files
- A simple main screen with everything clearly labeled
How it performed in our tests
- Blocked 99.9% of viruses and harmful programs
- Caught 99.7% of fake and scam websites
- A quick scan takes about 90 seconds
- Uses very little memory, so your computer does not slow down
Works on
Windows computers, Mac computers, Android phones and tablets, iPhones and iPads.
On iPhones, Apple limits what any antivirus can do, but TotalAV still protects against scam websites and monitors for data breaches.
What we liked
- Very easy to set up and ready in about 5 minutes
- Clear, simple layout with no confusing menus
- Protects you from online scams, not just viruses
- Includes a private internet connection in most plans
- Runs quietly in the background
What could be better
- No tools to set limits for children or grandchildren online
- Password manager is only available in the most expensive plan
Pricing
30-day money-back guarantee. If you are not happy, you get a full refund.
Antivirus Pro
$29/year
3 devices
Virus protection + scam website blocking
Internet Security
~$39/year
5 devices
Everything above + private internet connection
Total Security
~$49/year
6 devices
Everything above + password manager
Our verdict: TotalAV is the simplest, most reliable antivirus we tested. If you are not sure which one to choose, start here.
Get TotalAV #2 Best for multiple devices
Get Surfshark 2. Surfshark — Best if You Have Several Devices
Surfshark bundles VPN, antivirus, breach alerts, private search, Alternative ID, and identity protection features into one subscription.
The biggest advantage is still value across many devices. Surfshark supports unlimited devices, so one subscription can cover your phone, tablet, computer, and the rest of your household.
What it protects you from
- Viruses and malware with real-time scans before files are downloaded or opened
- Scams, spam, fake websites, and unsafe links while you browse
- Ads, cookie pop-ups, and trackers that follow you around the internet
- Personal data leaks by monitoring emails, IDs, credit cards, and other exposed details
It also includes
- A high-speed VPN with 4500+ servers in 100 countries
- Unlimited device coverage under one subscription
- Webcam protection that blocks unauthorized camera access attempts
- Alternative ID for masked email addresses and generated personal details
- Alert, Search, identity theft coverage, and Incogni data removal tools
How it performed in our tests
- Runs antivirus protection in the background without interrupting everyday use
- VPN network covers 100 countries for travel, public Wi-Fi, and home browsing
- Servers are upgraded to 10Gbps, and Surfshark says its no-logs policy has been audited
- Widely used, with 40M+ global app downloads and 30+ recognition awards as of April 22, 2026
Works on
Windows computers, Mac computers, Linux, Android phones and tablets, iPhones and iPads, Android TV, Apple TV, Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
Router and manual setup options are also available for some consoles and smart TVs that do not support Surfshark apps directly.
What we liked
- One subscription covers unlimited devices
- VPN, antivirus, alerts, search, and privacy extras are bundled together
- Strong privacy extras, including Alternative ID, identity theft coverage, and Incogni
- Large server network with 4500+ servers in 100 countries
- 30-day money-back guarantee
What could be better
- No parental controls
- No tools to speed up or clean your computer
- Identity theft coverage is for US residents only, excluding New York State
- Incogni is only available for US, UK, EU, Swiss, and Canadian residents
Pricing
30-day money-back guarantee. Current 24-month pricing is about $35.76/year for Starter, $40.56/year for One, and $83.76/year for One+, each with 3 extra months. VAT may apply.
Surfshark Starter
$35.76/year equivalent, $44.70 for first 15 months, renews at $79/year
24-month plan + 3 extra months
VPN, Alternative ID, Antivirus, Alert, Search, identity theft coverage*, Incogni
Surfshark One
$40.56/year equivalent, $50.70 for first 15 months, renews at $99/year
24-month plan + 3 extra months
VPN, Alternative ID, Antivirus, Alert, Search, identity theft coverage*, Incogni
Surfshark One+
$83.76/year equivalent, $104.70 for first 15 months, renews at $119/year
24-month plan + 3 extra months
VPN, Alternative ID, Antivirus, Alert, Search, identity theft coverage*, Incogni
Our verdict: If you want one subscription that combines VPN protection, antivirus, and privacy tools across unlimited devices, Surfshark remains the best all-in-one value on this list.
Get Surfshark #3 Best for privacy
Get CyberGhost 3. CyberGhost VPN — Best for Private Browsing and VPN Coverage
CyberGhost VPN is focused on privacy first. It encrypts your traffic, hides your real IP address, and gives you access to a large global server network with apps for most major devices.
It is a strong fit if your main goal is safer browsing, public Wi-Fi protection, and an easy VPN you can use across several devices without paying a premium price.
What it protects you from
- Your browsing activity on public Wi-Fi by encrypting internet traffic
- Exposure of your real IP address by masking your location online
- ISP throttling and routine network snooping with an encrypted tunnel
- Basic privacy leaks with DNS and IP leak protection plus a kill switch
It also includes
- Servers in 100+ countries with 10-Gbps networks and unlimited bandwidth
- Up to 7 simultaneous VPN connections on one subscription
- Apps for Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, smart TVs, browser extensions, and routers
- Email leak monitoring, split tunneling, and optional Dedicated IP add-on
How it performed in our tests
- Long-term plans currently advertise 87% off with a 2-year + 2-month offer
- Runs on 10-Gbps infrastructure built for streaming, gaming, and fast downloads
- Certified no-logs policy, with Deloitte cited for an independent audit
- 45-day refund window on long plans and 14 days on the monthly plan
Works on
Windows computers, Mac computers, Linux, Android phones and tablets, iPhones and iPads, Android TV, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chrome, Firefox, consoles, routers, and some smart TVs.
CyberGhost protects up to 7 devices at once. Router setup can extend coverage to more devices in the home.
What we liked
- Very competitive long-term pricing
- Large server footprint across 100+ countries
- Strong privacy positioning with a no-logs policy
- Useful support for streaming, gaming, and public Wi-Fi protection
- 45-day money-back guarantee on longer plans
What could be better
- This is a VPN, not a full antivirus suite
- Only 7 simultaneous device connections, not unlimited
- The monthly plan only includes a 14-day refund window
- Dedicated IP costs extra
Pricing
45-day money-back guarantee on 6-month and 2-year plans. Monthly plan has a 14-day money-back guarantee. Taxes may apply.
2 years + 2 months
$21/year equivalent, billed $45.50 for first 26 months, renews at $45.50/year
Up to 7 devices
VPN, leak protection, kill switch, split tunneling, no-logs policy
6 months
$41.94/year equivalent, autorenews at $41.94 every 6 months
Up to 7 devices
VPN with the same core privacy features
1 month
$155.88/year equivalent, billed $12.99 monthly
Up to 7 devices
Short-term access to the full VPN service
Our verdict: If your priority is private browsing, secure public Wi-Fi, and a low-cost long-term VPN plan, CyberGhost is the strongest privacy-focused option on this list.
Get CyberGhost #4 Best for Mac
Get MacKeeper 4. MacKeeper — Best Antivirus for Mac Users
MacKeeper is a tech care app created specifically for Macs. It combines antivirus, cleanup, optimization, ad blocking, and privacy features in one Mac-focused app.
If you want one tool that helps clean clutter, remove adware, improve performance, and protect your Mac online, MacKeeper covers more day-to-day Mac maintenance than most antivirus apps.
What it protects you from
- Viruses, spyware, adware, and other Mac malware with real-time antivirus protection
- Adware and suspicious pop-ups with the Adware Cleaner
- Privacy leaks by monitoring breached emails, passwords, SSN, and credit cards through ID Theft Guard
- Ads and trackers while browsing with StopAd and VPN Private Connect
It also includes
- Safe Cleanup, Smart Uninstaller, and Duplicates Finder for removing junk and reclaiming disk space
- Memory Cleaner, Login Items, and Update Tracker for performance optimization
- VPN Private Connect, StopAd, and ID Theft Guard for privacy and online safety
- 7-day real-time protection plus one-time fixes per feature for free with no credit card required
How it performed in our tests
- Antivirus detects up to 99.7% of currently known malware, according to MacKeeper
- Designed to clean junk, free RAM, and reduce startup load from unnecessary login items
- AV-TEST certified and notarized by Apple
- More than 60 million downloads, with software version 7.5 published in March 2026
Works on
Mac computers only. Compatible with macOS 10.15 or later and requires 100 MB of space.
MacKeeper is not available for Windows, Android, or iPhone. The page also highlights support for multiple household Macs through higher-tier plans.
What we liked
- Designed specifically for Mac and feels native to use
- Combines cleanup, antivirus, VPN, ad blocking, and performance tools in one app
- Free 7-day real-time protection trial with no credit card required
- Useful cleanup features for duplicates, uninstall leftovers, and memory pressure
- 100% money-back guarantee
What could be better
- Mac only, so it will not protect your phone or Windows computer
- Starting price on the pricing page is higher than the older promotional rates previously shown here
- No parental controls
- Some users may want separate specialist tools instead of one broad maintenance app
Pricing
100% money-back guarantee. Pricing page highlights up to 40% off, plus a free trial with 7-day real-time protection and one-time fixes per feature.
12-month plan
$62.01/year, billed every year
1 Mac
Antivirus, cleanup, performance tools, VPN, ad blocker, privacy tools
12-month plan
$71.64/year, billed every year
3 Macs + 1 extra license
Multilayered protection for household Macs
Flexible options
Pricing varies
1-month and 6-month plans also available
Shorter-term MacKeeper subscriptions
Our verdict: If you use a Mac and want one app that handles protection, cleanup, performance tuning, and privacy tools, MacKeeper is the strongest Mac-specific option on this list.
Get MacKeeperMethodology
How We Chose These Programs
We did not just read reviews or copy information from company websites. We installed and used each program ourselves on real computers and phones.
Does it actually protect you from common online risks?
We tested each product against real threats, risky networks, and known scam websites to see what it blocked in practice.
Is it easy to use?
We paid close attention to whether someone without a technical background could install it and use it without confusion.
Does it slow your computer down?
We measured how much each program affected everyday performance on real hardware.
Do the extra features work?
We tested private internet connections, breach monitoring, cleanup tools, and other extras before giving credit for them.
Is the price honest?
We checked renewal pricing, refund policies, and whether key features were locked behind unnecessary upgrades.
Only programs that passed all of these checks made this list.
Use cases
Which Option Is Right for Your Situation?
"I just want something simple that works on my computer."
Choose TotalAV. Install it, let it run, and you are protected without needing any technical knowledge.
"I have a Mac."
Choose MacKeeper. It's built for Mac and fits naturally into how your computer works.
"I want to cover my phone and my computer."
Choose Surfshark. One subscription covers your phone, tablet, and computer without extra device fees.
"I mainly want private browsing and safer public Wi-Fi."
Choose CyberGhost VPN. It is built around encrypted browsing, IP masking, and easy VPN access across several devices.
"I am worried about online banking scams and identity theft."
TotalAV or Surfshark are the strongest options here for scam detection and personal information monitoring.
"I am not sure. What is the safest choice?"
Go with TotalAV. It is the easiest to set up, works on any device, and covers the threats most people face every day.
Setup guide
How to Set Up Your Protection App — Step by Step
These steps use TotalAV as the example, but the process is similar for all four programs.
Step 1
Go to the official website.
Type the web address directly into your browser. Do not search for it and click ads if you can avoid it.
Step 2
Choose a plan and pay.
Pick the plan that covers the number of devices you need. You will receive a confirmation email with your account details.
Step 3
Download and install the program.
Click the download button and follow the instructions. Installation usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step 4
Run a full scan.
Once installed, let the program check your whole computer for anything that should not be there.
Step 5
Make sure real-time protection is turned on.
This is the feature that monitors your computer continuously. It is usually on by default, but it is worth confirming.
Step 6
You are done.
From this point, the program runs quietly in the background, updates itself, and warns you if it finds a problem.
If you would like help at any step, all four options offer customer support by phone or live chat.
Not recommended
Programs We Decided Not to Recommend
We tested well over 50 programs. These are the main reasons some did not make the list.
Avast and AVG
These programs were found to have collected and sold browsing information without making that clear enough to users.
Webroot
It was quick and lightweight, but it missed several threats that the programs above caught without difficulty.
ESET
Technically strong, but built for business users and too complicated for the everyday audience this site serves.
Sophos Home
The paid version does not include enough to justify the price when compared with TotalAV or Surfshark.
Kaspersky
This software has been banned by government agencies in the United States, United Kingdom, and several European countries due to security concerns.
Questions
Common Questions
Do I really need antivirus software?
Yes. Online scams, fake websites, and harmful programs are common. Antivirus software catches them automatically before they do damage.
Is my computer already protected?
Windows and Mac both include some built-in security, but they do not cover everything. A proper antivirus helps fill those gaps.
Will it slow my computer down?
A good antivirus should have very little impact. TotalAV and Surfshark were the lightest in our testing.
Is free antivirus good enough?
Free versions are better than nothing, but they usually do not protect you in real time and often miss scam protection and breach alerts.
Do I need antivirus on my phone?
Yes. Phones can still be targeted by scam apps, fake websites, and phishing messages. iPhone protection is more limited, but it still helps.
What if I have a problem with the program?
All four options include customer support, and each one offers a refund window if it does not suit you.
Can I protect more than one device with the same subscription?
Yes. Surfshark covers unlimited devices, CyberGhost covers up to 7 at once, and the other plans also offer multi-device coverage depending on tier.
What is a VPN and do I need one?
A private internet connection helps hide your internet activity from others, especially on public Wi-Fi in places like cafes, airports, or hotels.
Staying Safe Online Does Not Have to Be Complicated
A good security app does the hard work for you, quietly, in the background, without asking you to understand anything technical.
All four options on this page are trustworthy, easy to use, and tested by our team. If you are not sure where to start, TotalAV is the safe choice for most people.
And remember: the best protection is the one you actually keep running.