The most effective antivirus software will ensure that your devices are safe from malware, ransomware and phishing. It also shields you from spyware that snoops on your browsing history and passwords, and it can stop data breaches from damaging your personal data. But there are hundreds of packages out there, many of them costing more than you want to spend.

We’ve tested more than 300 them in order to find the most effective antivirus security for your money. We’ve looked for robust and easy-to-use software that protects you without causing a slowdown to your computer or deterring you from using it. We’ve also ensured that the software is updated with its malware database regularly.

Top-quality packages include a complete set of anti-malware tools, and also additional features http://topantivirussoftware.org/collaborative-software-for-the-board-of-trustees/ like a VPN password manager, password manager, and parental controls. Some companies offer a dark-web surveillance service to determine whether your email address, credit card data or other personal information has fallen into the wrong hand.

Our winner is Norton 360, which offers an excellent all-round security package with high malware detection rates and impressive extra features including a password manager and an VPN to safeguard your privacy when you surf online. The service offers dark-web monitoring in real time and cloud backups.

It’s also among the few packages that’s available for Mac computers (most others only cover Windows PCs) and it has a high performance in tests conducted by independent lab AV-Comparatives. It’s a bit expensive at around $2.50/month for an annual subscription but there is a free trial available.