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When it comes to protecting your devices and personal information online, having the right internet security tools is essential. Online security suites offer comprehensive antivirus defences for all your devices, including PCs, Macs, Android, and iOS. Instead of having to manage separate virus protection for each device, an internet security suite provides a convenient all-in-one solution.
In addition to core antivirus protection, the best internet security suites offer a range of additional tools and features that go beyond basic antivirus software. These can include a bundled VPN, password manager, rescue disks, secure file vaults, and a secure browser for online banking and shopping. With so many options available, it’s important to choose the right security suite for your needs.
In this article, we will rank and discuss the best internet security suites in 2023, considering their individual features and benefits to help you make an informed decision.
Bitdefender Total Security
Bitdefender Total Security is the top-tier security suite from the well-respected security firm. It offers a wide range of features, including standard antivirus tools, multi-layered ransomware protection, a firewall, a Wi-Fi security advisor, a secure browser for online banking, a file shredder, a vulnerability scanner, password manager, email spam filter, parental controls, webcam and microphone defences, and more.
Total Security also provides PC maintenance and optimisation tools, making it a comprehensive package for all your security needs. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, offering protection across multiple platforms. Bitdefender Total Security is slightly more expensive than the mid-tier Bitdefender Internet Security, but it is worth the upgrade if you have multiple devices to protect.
Bitdefender has a minimal impact on system performance, and there is a 30-day trial available for you to try out the suite before making a purchase. With its extensive feature set and excellent protection, Bitdefender Total Security is a top choice for internet security.
Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton 360 Deluxe is a comprehensive internet security suite from NortonLifeLock. It offers good basic protection, along with a range of features such as webcam protection, dark web monitoring, firewall, and parental controls. Norton’s parental controls are particularly strong, with advanced monitoring systems and GPS tracking for mobile devices.
Norton 360 Deluxe also includes a fully integrated VPN and 50GB of online backup storage, adding value to the suite. However, it may have a slightly higher impact on system performance compared to some other security suites.
Norton 360 Deluxe covers up to five devices, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It offers competitive pricing, making it a great choice for families and those looking to protect multiple devices. If you are looking for a well-rounded internet security suite with strong parental controls, Norton 360 Deluxe is a solid option.
Avast One
Avast One is a revamped security suite from Avast, offering comprehensive protection across various fronts. In addition to antivirus and ransomware defences, Avast One provides a firewall, webcam protection, data breach monitoring, a software updater, and a full VPN with unlimited data.
Avast One also includes device speed-up and maintenance tools, along with features like a Sensitive Data Shield that scans drives for files containing sensitive information. While some capabilities may not be as robust as other top performers, Avast One offers a wide range of features, making it one of the best all-rounders in the market.
Trend Micro Maximum Security
Trend Micro Maximum Security is a flagship security suite from Trend Micro. It offers a polished and user-friendly interface, backed by superb virus protection and multi-layered anti-ransomware defences. With first-class URL filtering and a range of additional features such as parental controls, social media privacy features, and PC maintenance tools, Trend Micro Maximum Security provides comprehensive protection for your devices.
The suite also includes data theft prevention countermeasures, a secure vault for sensitive files, and an integrated password manager. Trend Micro Maximum Security is well-regarded by independent testing labs and offers a 30-day trial for you to evaluate the suite before making a purchase.
McAfee Total Protection Multi-Device
McAfee Total Protection Multi-Device is a cost-effective option for those looking to protect multiple devices. While McAfee’s basic security product covers only one device, Total Protection Multi-Device offers protection for up to five Windows or Mac computers, and Android or iOS devices. It also includes identity theft protection for customers in the US.
McAfee’s interface is simple and streamlined, making it suitable for beginners. The suite includes features such as an intelligent firewall, email spam filter, and performance boosting tools. It also offers a basic integrated VPN and nifty extras for web browsing and app performance.
While McAfee’s antivirus protection is solid, it may have a higher impact on system performance compared to some other security suites. However, Total Protection Multi-Device represents reasonable value and is a good choice for families and those looking to protect multiple devices.
BullGuard Premium Protection
BullGuard Premium Protection is a quality security suite with useful additional features. It offers multi-layered defences backed by advanced machine learning to protect against current and future malware threats. The suite includes a firewall, vulnerability scanner, home network scanner, and a Game Booster feature for gamers.
BullGuard Premium Protection provides a good quality antivirus engine and offers coverage for up to 15 devices. It offers a solid value proposition, especially for those needing protection for multiple devices. The suite also includes a secure browser, identity protection, and PC maintenance tools, making it a well-rounded package.
Avira Prime
Avira Prime is an interesting security suite that offers a range of extras and maintenance tools. While it lacks some core security features found in other suites, it makes up for it with a decent VPN and high-quality PC maintenance tools. If you are looking for speed-up tools or need a VPN, Avira Prime could be a perfect fit.
Avira Prime offers good protection with its antivirus engine, and the suite includes features such as system speed-up tools and an anti-phishing layer. It offers coverage for up to 25 devices and represents great value for those needing a VPN in addition to comprehensive security.
ESET Smart Security Premium
ESET Smart Security Premium offers extensive configurability, making it suitable for power users who want granular control over their security settings. The suite includes features such as network protection, a password manager, and anti-theft features for Windows devices.
While ESET provides a range of features, their quality can vary. The suite’s parental controls are basic, but the password manager is well-developed. ESET also offers plenty of configuration options, which may be challenging for less experienced users.
ESET’s antivirus protection is solid, although independent lab test results are mixed. The suite includes PC maintenance tools, a secure file vault, and a password manager. While ESET Smart Security Premium offers additional functionality, it may not be the best value for money compared to other security suites.
Webroot Internet Security Plus
Webroot Internet Security Plus is known for its lightweight and fast-performing nature. It has a minimal impact on system resources and offers features such as online banking protection, identity shield, ransomware defences, and a smart firewall. The suite also includes a password manager bundled with a LastPass subscription.
Webroot’s antivirus engine has received mixed evaluations from independent labs, raising some concerns about its accuracy. However, the suite is well-rounded and offers a 70-day money-back guarantee, demonstrating Webroot’s confidence in its product.
In conclusion, choosing the right internet security suite is crucial for protecting your devices and personal information online. Consider the features, device compatibility, performance impact, and additional capabilities of each suite to make an informed decision. The best internet security suite for 2023 is Bitdefender Total Security, with its comprehensive feature set and excellent protection. However, other suites on this list also offer strong protection and useful features, so choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.