14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has indeed substantially improved the security of the Windows operating system and tried to make Windows Defender a more advanced solution, but there still are users who prefer to install third-party antivirus software for increased protection.
And given that many users are still on Windows 7, security institute AV-TEST has decided to perform a new series of security tests to determine the best antivirus solution in August for the Windows version launched in 2009.
Unsurprisingly, almost the same security products came on top, with Bitdefender Internet Security, Kaspersky Internet Security, and Trend Micro Internet Security scoring the maximum number of points in protection, performance, and usability tests. All three security products got 6 out of 6 points for each test, ranking the best on Windows 7.
Avira, AVG, and Avast have also performed quite well, but they haven’t received the maximum number of points in these tests.
Avast, for instance, received 5.5 points for protection, 4 points for performance, and 5.5 points for usability, while AVG scored 5.5 points in absolutely all tests. Avira got the same results as AVG in protection and performance, but obtained 6 points for usability.
Microsoft’s Security Essentials
Microsoft’s security products were also put to the test this time, and certainly they didn’t disappoint. Since Windows 7 doesn’t come with built-in antivirus protection, AV-TEST conducted the same protection, performance, and usability tests on Microsoft Security Essentials, which received 3.5, 5.0, and 5.5 points, respectively.
The overall score of 14 points out of a maximum of 18 is not at all below expectations given the fact that this antivirus solution is offered free of charge to Windows users and it certainly shows a substantial improvement over the previous versions, which often failed to successfully block malware.
And yet, in terms of protection, MSE still needs improvements, as only a single product got a worse score - Comodo, with 3 points. Otherwise, Security Essentials is worth a try, especially if you’re looking for free antivirus protection with regular updates.
UPDATE: Check out the best antivirus solutions for Windows 7 business users.