Do you own a PC? Well, then you need to have a good security suite installed too. Considering today’s fast-paced world, this is a no questions asked. A security suite is like a full-fledged security system that you use to protect your home – although the difference is that an attack on your computer can turn out to be much worse in some cases.
Now that the 2020 global pandemic has pushed everything to go online, cybercrimes are on an all-time high. If you wish to protect your online activities, you need to invest in a reliable security system. Granted that Windows 10 has come up with its own anti-virus by the name, Windows Defender, you need to ask yourself if it is enough for you.
In this article, we will be discussing the specifications of Windows Defender and will compare the best security suites of 2021 to help you find one that suits you in the best manner.
Windows Defender – is it enough?
Microsoft Windows Defender is an in-built antivirus software program of the Windows OS. This implies that if you have got the newest Windows 10 installed on your system, you do not need to download Windows Defender too.
Windows Defender comes with an advanced level of firewall, impressive anti-malware and ransomware protection, and regular software updates. It all houses some of the best parental controls letting you track your kid’s online activities at all times; through these parental controls, you can also set a screen time for your kids.
Another exciting feature is App and Browser Control that offers isolated browsing and supreme level protection.
Windows Defender has scored well in the lab tests and if there is no antivirus present, it is set to turn on automatically. However, in the event you want to use another antivirus program or a security suite, you can simply turn it off.
Now the question arises, is Windows Defender enough?
Windows Defender is the closest Microsoft has come to compete with third-party security suites. However, it is still not the best. If you use the computer for light browsing and serious online activities are not involved, then Windows Defender might be the best for you. On contrary, if you have confidential files on your system, or use your financial accounts online, then it is very important that you get yourself a trusted security suite that protects your online identity from all aspects.
Most security suites are expensive, however, if you subscribe to Spectrum bundle deals, you can avail of a complimentary security suite along with the amazing double play and triple-play services that you can enjoy without signing any contract.
On the other hand, if you want to invest in a good old-fashioned security suite: we have come up with a detailed comparison.
| Bitdefender Internet Security | Norton 360 Deluxe | Kaspersky Internet Security | Kaspersky Security Cloud | McAfee Total Protection | Bitdefender Total Security | |
| VPN | Limited | Full | Limited | Limited | Full | Limited |
| Firewall | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Antispam | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Parental Control | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Backup | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | No |
| Tune-Up | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Yearly Price | 34.99 USD for three devices | 49.99 USD for five devices | 39.99 USD for three devices | 53.99 USD for three devices | 39.99 USD* for ten devices | 39.98 USD for five devices |
* Promo offer
Bitdefender Internet Security
Bitdefender has made sure to put all the security goodness in its version, Bitdefender Internet Security. This security suite comes ready with impressive parental controls, webcam security, and multilayered ransomware protection.
It includes strong VPN software and features audio and video security as well. Additionally, all of its security features make sure to defend your computer system against cybercrimes, at all times.
The only issue that you might face with Bitdefender Internet Security is the unavailability of file encryption. This is a new update and can be a deciding factor for some people.
Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton 360 Deluxe, not only provides you with online backup and cross-platform security but also gives you the ability to use an unlimited VPN, full-fledged parental controls, and high-level security.
Norton 360 Deluxe offers guaranteed protection against malware, ransomware, and viruses. It supports Android, macOS, iOS, and Windows. However, the features might be limited on iOS and macOS devices.
Kaspersky Internet Security
In all sorts of antivirus stats, Kaspersky Internet Security has ruled over all other security suites. Everything that you might expect from a security suite is embedded in this version of Kaspersky.
It provides protection to both Android and macOS devices. It has a powerful firewall control system and offers remarkable exploit detection. Moreover, it also offers webcam protection.
Kaspersky Security Cloud
Kaspersky Security Cloud allows you to install and control security over ten devices i.e. computers, phones, tablets, etc. It offers supreme protection to Android, macOS, iOS, and Windows. You can manage the security of any device through an online dashboard. Kaspersky Security Cloud scans your home network regularly and looks out for any compromised records.
In order to use all the features of its VPN service, you might need to subscribe separately. Moreover, the password manager offered by Kaspersky Security Cloud also lacks some advanced features.
McAfee TOTAL PROTECTION
McAfee Total Protection provides password management, parental controls, and absolute protection to all your devices. Some features might be limited to macOS. You can enjoy unlimited VPN service through this security suite. Its protection against phishing is notable and offers identity theft control as well. While identity theft control is intact, the remediation no longer offers reimbursement.
McAfee Total Protection also offers strong file encryption software. One thing that might be a deal-breaker for you is that its parental control system is somewhat limited.
Bitdefender Total Security
If you want a plethora of security features and components, then Bitdefender Total Security should be your choice. This mega security suite offers an abundance of security features in a single package.
As an award-winning antivirus, Bitdefender Total Security offers protection to Android, macOS, iOS, and Windows. You can manage your devices’ security online as well. It, further, offers an anti-theft feature for iOS, Android, and Windows. However, some features have a limited working scale on iOS.
