### Contents - [**Articles**](#resources-articles) - [**Glossary Terms**](#resources-glossary_terms) - [**Discussions**](#resources-discussions) - [**Reports**](#resources-reports) # Antivirus Software Resources ##### Articles, Glossary Terms, Discussions, and Reports to expand your knowledge on Antivirus Software Resource pages are designed to give you a cross-section of information we have on specific categories. You'll find [articles](#resources-articles) from our experts, [feature definitions](#resources-glossary_terms), [discussions](#resources-discussions) from users like you, and [reports](#resources-reports) from industry data. [ContentsExpand/Collapse Contents](#) - [**Articles**](#resources-articles) - [**Glossary Terms**](#resources-glossary_terms) - [**Discussions**](#resources-discussions) - [**Reports**](#resources-reports) ## Antivirus Software Articles [![8 Best Free Ransomware Protection Software in 2024](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_FI1051_Learn_Article_Images_%5Bbest_ransomware_protection_software%5D_V1a.png "8 Best Free Ransomware Protection Software in 2024")](https://www.g2.com/articles/free-ransomware-protection-software) [ ### 8 Best Free Ransomware Protection Software in 2024 ](https://www.g2.com/articles/free-ransomware-protection-software) Hackers are getting craftier and more creative every quarter. Establishing and maintaining the security of your data requires powerful, reliable tools, and many of them will test your budget. [ ![Shreya Mattoo](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Shreya Mattoo") SM ](https://learn.g2.com/author/shreya-mattoo) by Shreya Mattoo [![What Is an Operating System? Types of OS and Functions](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/operating%20system.png "What Is an Operating System? Types of OS and Functions")](https://www.g2.com/articles/operating-system) [ ### What Is an Operating System? Types of OS and Functions ](https://www.g2.com/articles/operating-system) If you’re anything like me, you have at least 20 browser tabs open, along with a couple of spreadsheets and probably some music. [ ![Sudipto Paul](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Sudipto Paul") SP ](https://learn.g2.com/author/sudipto-paul) by Sudipto Paul [![What Is Spyware? How to Protect Yourself Against It](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_FI175_Learn_Article_Images-%5BSpyware%5D_V1b.png "What Is Spyware? How to Protect Yourself Against It")](https://www.g2.com/articles/spyware) [ ### What Is Spyware? How to Protect Yourself Against It ](https://www.g2.com/articles/spyware) Many people and companies handle your personal information.  [ ![Sagar Joshi](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Sagar Joshi") SJ ](https://learn.g2.com/author/sagar-joshi) by Sagar Joshi [![Securing the Remote Workforce with UEM Software](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/empty%20office.jpg "Securing the Remote Workforce with UEM Software")](https://www.g2.com/articles/uem-software-secures-remote-workforce) [ ### Securing the Remote Workforce with UEM Software ](https://www.g2.com/articles/uem-software-secures-remote-workforce) In organizations today, employees not only use company devices to access sensitive work-related data, but also personal devices. Some companies don’t even issue company devices, but instead, follow the bring your own device (BYOD) approach to save on hardware costs. Also, employees use a wide variety of operating systems (OS), such as Windows OS, macOS, IoS, Android, and different web OS.  [ ![Tian Lin](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Tian Lin") TL ](https://learn.g2.com/author/tian-lin) by Tian Lin [![Computer Viruses Return As the Coronavirus Continues to Spread](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/computer%20virus.jpg "Computer Viruses Return As the Coronavirus Continues to Spread")](https://www.g2.com/articles/computer-viruses-return-as-coronavirus-spread-continues) [ ### Computer Viruses Return As the Coronavirus Continues to Spread ](https://www.g2.com/articles/computer-viruses-return-as-coronavirus-spread-continues) In a pinch of irony, the same week that the coronavirus was making headlines, it was announced that the first new computer virus in years was wreaking havoc in Europe, Russia, and India. [ ![Aaron Walker](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Aaron Walker") AW ](https://learn.g2.com/author/aaron-walker) by Aaron Walker [![How Small Business Employees are Adjusting to Remote Work](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/man-sitting-down-and-using-his-laptop-374085.jpg "How Small Business Employees are Adjusting to Remote Work")](https://www.g2.com/articles/small-business-employees-remote-work-experiences) [ ### How Small Business Employees are Adjusting to Remote Work ](https://www.g2.com/articles/small-business-employees-remote-work-experiences) G2 is constantly following the evolving B2B tech industry, especially during this uncertain time. As part of a series of articles based on a recent survey we conducted, G2 analysts have highlighted some key issues and statistics about what small business employees are facing while working from home, along with possible tools and courses of action everyone can take away. [ ![Nathan Calabrese](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Nathan Calabrese") NC ](https://learn.g2.com/author/nathan-calabrese) by Nathan Calabrese [![How to Strengthen Remote Workforce Security During Crises](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_BI209_Backlog_Images_%5BRemote_security%5D_V1a.png "How to Strengthen Remote Workforce Security During Crises")](https://www.g2.com/articles/how-to-strengthen-remote-workforce-security) [ ### How to Strengthen Remote Workforce Security During Crises ](https://www.g2.com/articles/how-to-strengthen-remote-workforce-security) The coronavirus health crisis has forced millions of workers (who are able) to transition to working from home. That poses numerous obstacles to workers meeting their deadlines and doing their jobs. Security management and enforcement have become some of the most important and critical transitional needs involved for both workers and their employers.  [ ![Aaron Walker](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Aaron Walker") AW ](https://learn.g2.com/author/aaron-walker) by Aaron Walker [![Don’t Fall Prey to Spear Phishing: Protect Yourself Now](https://sell.g2.com/hubfs/spear-phishing-1.png "Don’t Fall Prey to Spear Phishing: Protect Yourself Now")](https://www.g2.com/articles/what-is-spear-phishing) [ ### Don’t Fall Prey to Spear Phishing: Protect Yourself Now ](https://www.g2.com/articles/what-is-spear-phishing) Everyone wants to keep their information safe. [ ![Alexa Drake](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Alexa Drake") AD ](https://learn.g2.com/author/alexa-drake) by Alexa Drake [![What Is Fileless Malware and How Do Attacks Occur?](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_BI066_Backlog_Images_%5BFileless_Malware%5D_V1a.png "What Is Fileless Malware and How Do Attacks Occur?")](https://www.g2.com/articles/what-is-fileless-malware-and-how-attacks-occur) [ ### What Is Fileless Malware and How Do Attacks Occur? ](https://www.g2.com/articles/what-is-fileless-malware-and-how-attacks-occur) Fileless malware attacks are on the rise as more hackers use it to disguise their nefarious activities. These threats leverage a computer’s existing, whitelisted applications and computing power against itself. This is what security professionals refer to as “live off the land” threats.  [ ![Aaron Walker](/assets/transparent-ad5be28fbcd25b7b08d2cebe1d957125437fb5407d75ee717965ad22c8808791.gif "Aaron Walker") AW ](https://learn.g2.com/author/aaron-walker) by Aaron Walker Show More ## Antivirus Software Glossary Terms [![Unified Threat Management](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_GI777_Glossary_Article_Images-%5Bunified_threat_management%5D_V1b.png "Unified Threat Management")](https://www.g2.com/glossary/unified-threat-management-definition) [Unified Threat Management](https://www.g2.com/glossary/unified-threat-management-definition) Unified threat management (UTM) consolidates a company's network security tools into one appliance. Learn how UTM works, its core features, and benefits. by Shreesh Singh [![Zero-Day Attack](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_GI860_Glossary_Article_Images_%5Bzero-day_attack%5D_V1b.png "Zero-Day Attack")](https://www.g2.com/glossary/zero-day-attack-definition) [Zero-Day Attack](https://www.g2.com/glossary/zero-day-attack-definition) What is a zero-day attack and why is it important as a software feature? Our G2 guide can help you understand zero-day attacks. by Rachana Hasyagar [![Cloud File Storage](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_GI808_Glossary_Article_Images-%5Bcloud_file_storage%5D_V1a.png "Cloud File Storage")](https://www.g2.com/glossary/cloud-file-storage-definition) [Cloud File Storage](https://www.g2.com/glossary/cloud-file-storage-definition) Cloud file storage provides a shared file system to store data on the cloud, making it easily accessible for users. Learn about its types and benefits. by Sagar Joshi [![Mobile Data Security](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_GI685_Glossary_Article_Images-%5Bmobile_data_security%5D_V1a.png "Mobile Data Security")](https://www.g2.com/glossary/mobile-data-security-definition) [Mobile Data Security](https://www.g2.com/glossary/mobile-data-security-definition) Mobile data security protects mobile business assets from cybersecurity threats. Learn more about mobile data security best practices and benefits. by Holly Landis [![Mobile Device Management](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_GI615_Glossary_Article_Images_%5Bmobile_device_management%5D_V1a.png "Mobile Device Management")](https://www.g2.com/glossary/mobile-device-management-definition) [Mobile Device Management](https://www.g2.com/glossary/mobile-device-management-definition) Businesses use mobile device management to protect data. Learn the benefits and limitations of MDM and how it differs from enterprise mobility management. by Alyssa Towns [![Rootkit](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_GI579_Glossary_Article_Images_%5BRootkit%5D_V1b.png "Rootkit")](https://www.g2.com/glossary/rootkit-definition) [Rootkit](https://www.g2.com/glossary/rootkit-definition) Rootkits are malicious software programs that can be installed on devices. Learn how to identify rootkits, the different types, and how to avoid them. by Holly Landis [![Network Security](https://learn.g2.com/hubfs/G2CM_GI242_Glossary_Article_Images_-_%5BNetwork_Security%5D_V1a.png "Network Security")](https://www.g2.com/glossary/network-security-definition) [Network Security](https://www.g2.com/glossary/network-security-definition) Network security includes the strategies, software, and devices used to protect technological systems. Learn more about specific types and best practices. by Kelly Fiorini ## Antivirus Software Discussions 0 [What is the most lightweight antivirus for an older laptop that still needs real-time protection without the software itself making things worse?](/discussions/what-is-the-most-lightweight-antivirus-for-an-older-laptop-that-still-needs-real-time-protection-without-the-software-itself-making-things-worse) On an older laptop, the key concern is finding the lightest antivirus that offers real-time protection without slowing down the machine. Footprint matters most here. The [antivirus tools](https://www.g2.com/categories/antivirus) that stood out to me include ESET PROTECT, ThreatDown, Webroot Business Endpoint Protection, and K7 Antivirus. - [**ESET PROTECT**](https://www.g2.com/products/eset-protect/reviews) is one of the most consistently praised for low resource use, with reviewers reporting no slowdown even during scans and specifically noting it lets them get more life out of aging hardware without upgrades. - [**ThreatDown**](https://www.g2.com/products/threatdown/reviews) runs a single lightweight agent that reviewers say stays quiet in the background with no real performance hit, while still handling malware and ransomware. That combination of small footprint and strong detection suits a machine that can't spare cycles. - [**Webroot Business Endpoint Protection**](https://www.g2.com/products/webroot-business-endpoint-protection/reviews) may be the standout for older hardware. Some reviews specifically noted its use to protect legacy systems where heavier modern tools don't run well, and it's repeatedly described as tiny, fast-scanning, and unobtrusive. - [**K7 Antivirus**](https://www.g2.com/products/k7-antivirus/reviews) is explicitly praised for never slowing systems and working well on lower-end, base-configuration machines, while still handling ransomware and web threats. It's also budget-friendly, which tends to matter for a spare older laptop. Anyone kept an old laptop genuinely usable by switching to a lighter antivirus? And did you keep real-time protection on, or lean more on scheduled scans to save resources? A scheduled-scans-only setup saves resources exactly when the laptop is idle anyway, and gives up protection exactly when it's in use. The lighter answer is real-time protection from a genuinely small agent, not less protection from a big one. The tools praised for older hardware are praised for staying quiet during use, and that's the review line I'd search for. Answered: Shreesh Singh on July 22, 2026 [Your answer](/discussions/what-is-the-most-lightweight-antivirus-for-an-older-laptop-that-still-needs-real-time-protection-without-the-software-itself-making-things-worse/comments/new?remote=true) 0 [Which antivirus subscription gives the best value for protecting multiple devices including PC, Mac, phone and tablet under one plan?](/discussions/which-antivirus-subscription-gives-the-best-value-for-protecting-multiple-devices-including-pc-mac-phone-and-tablet-under-one-plan) Hello G2. If you're looking for the best value to cover a mix of devices, including PC, Mac, phone, and tablet, under a single plan, the key question is coverage per dollar across platforms rather than raw detection scores. Here are consumer-friendly, multi-device picks from the [Antivirus](https://www.g2.com/categories/antivirus) category: - [**Kaspersky AntiVirus**](https://www.g2.com/products/kaspersky-antivirus/reviews) (4.5/5, 95 reviews) supports Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and reviewers specifically call it pocket-friendly while praising a clean, easy interface. It bundles extras like payment protection and a VPN. - [**360 Total Security**](https://www.g2.com/products/360-total-security/reviews) (4.3/5, 46 reviews) has a genuinely free tier with malware scanning and system optimization, which reviewers love for the price. Two honest caveats: the free version shows pop-up ads and lacks free ransomware protection, and reviewers also flag data-privacy concerns. - [**Adguard**](https://www.g2.com/products/adguard/reviews) (4.4/5, 32 reviews) works cross-platform at the DNS level, so reviewers protect phone, laptop, and PC under one setup, blocking ads, trackers, and malicious sites. It's a great value complement, but it's a filter rather than a full AV engine. - [**TotalAV**](https://www.g2.com/products/totalav/reviews) (4.0/5, 11 reviews) markets a family, multi-device plan with a bundled VPN and ad blocker, and reviewers find it easy for non-tech users. Although some reviewers mention assertive advertising and automated billing concerns, including refund issues. Which one-plan setup are you using to cover the household, and did the renewal price stay reasonable in year two? The year-two question is the one I'd press on, because in my experience renewal-price complaints are fairly common. The pattern is consistent: first-year pricing on multi-device plans is aggressive everywhere, and the quiet jump at renewal is where the value story falls apart. So I'd compare renewal prices rather than intro prices, and set a reminder to renegotiate or switch before it auto-bills. The billing and refund friction some reviewers describe deserves as much weight as protection scores for a household plan. Answered: Shreesh Singh on July 22, 2026 [Your answer](/discussions/which-antivirus-subscription-gives-the-best-value-for-protecting-multiple-devices-including-pc-mac-phone-and-tablet-under-one-plan/comments/new?remote=true) 0 [What antivirus software is safest and easiest to use for a non-technical person who just needs something reliable running in the background without any fuss?](/discussions/what-antivirus-software-is-safest-and-easiest-to-use-for-a-non-technical-person-who-just-needs-something-reliable-running-in-the-background-without-any-fuss) For a non-technical person who just wants a safe, reliable antivirus that runs in the background with no fuss, the whole game is set-and-forget: install it and never think about it again. I rounded up the options that G2 reviewers most consistently describe that way from the [Antivirus](https://www.g2.com/categories/antivirus) category: - [**ESET PROTECT**](https://www.g2.com/products/eset-protect/reviews) gets praised for being genuinely easy to live with, running quietly, and catching threats through AI-driven detection without needing you to babysit settings. Reviewers describe real peace of mind from something that just works. - [**Kaspersky AntiVirus**](https://www.g2.com/products/kaspersky-antivirus/reviews) is repeatedly called simple, silent, and always there, with a clear interface free of unnecessary complications. Reviewers note it protects without them having to be on alert. The catch worth mentioning: notifications can get a little persistent, and there are longstanding trust questions around Kaspersky that some people factor in. - [**Webroot Business Endpoint Protection**](https://www.g2.com/products/webroot-business-endpoint-protection/reviews) runs quietly with fast scans and an interface reviewers call straightforward, which suits someone who wants protection without a learning curve. - [**Malwarebytes for Teams**](https://www.g2.com/products/malwarebytes-for-teams/reviews) is built specifically for non-technical folks and small offices with, in the vendor's words, no IT skills required. Reviewers highlight how easy it is to set up, and several specifically appreciate that it doesn't nag with constant ads or upgrade-now pop-ups, which matters a lot for someone who finds those confusing. If it helps narrow things, the least fussy experience tends to come from whichever one you can install once and genuinely forget. Which of these have you set up for a parent or friend who isn't techy, and did it stay out of their way? The install-once-and-forget test is the right one, and I'd add a second: what happens at renewal. The set-and-forget tools stay out of the way right up until the auto-renewal email, and that's the moment the non-technical person calls you anyway. Whichever you pick, doing the setup yourself and switching off the promotional notifications is what actually makes it fuss-free for them. Answered: Shreesh Singh on July 22, 2026 [Your answer](/discussions/what-antivirus-software-is-safest-and-easiest-to-use-for-a-non-technical-person-who-just-needs-something-reliable-running-in-the-background-without-any-fuss/comments/new?remote=true) - [‹ Prev‹ Prev](/categories/antivirus/resources?discussions_page=2) - [1](/categories/antivirus/resources) - [2](/categories/antivirus/resources?discussions_page=2) - 3 - [4](/categories/antivirus/resources?discussions_page=4) - [5](/categories/antivirus/resources?discussions_page=5) - [6](/categories/antivirus/resources?discussions_page=6) - [7](/categories/antivirus/resources?discussions_page=7) - … - [45](/categories/antivirus/resources?discussions_page=45) - [46](/categories/antivirus/resources?discussions_page=46) - [Next ›Next ›](/categories/antivirus/resources?discussions_page=4) ## Antivirus Software Reports Mid-Market Grid® Report for Antivirus Summer 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Grid® Report for Antivirus Summer 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Enterprise Grid® Report for Antivirus Summer 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Momentum Grid® Report for Antivirus Summer 2026 G2 Report: Momentum Grid® Report Small-Business Grid® Report for Antivirus Summer 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Enterprise Grid® Report for Antivirus Spring 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Small-Business Grid® Report for Antivirus Spring 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Mid-Market Grid® Report for Antivirus Spring 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Grid® Report for Antivirus Spring 2026 G2 Report: Grid® Report Momentum Grid® Report for Antivirus Spring 2026 G2 Report: Momentum Grid® Report