In this article, we are diving into a hands-on experiment to test the most famous antivirus software known to the average user, including:
Windows Defender, Kaspersky, Avast, AVG, Avira, Panda, ZoneAlarm, 360 Total Security, Adaware, and others.
Have these programs actually evolved? Have they become less annoying and more effective? And most importantly... Do you really need external antivirus software, or is Windows Defender enough?
Why Did I Start This Experiment?
I have long complained about third-party antivirus software for several reasons:
- They are extremely annoying with constant notifications.
- They consume significant system resources (RAM/CPU).
- They install additional software (Bloatware) without permission.
- Some try to aggressively force you into buying the paid version.
- The worst part: Some of them have been caught selling user data!
Therefore, I wanted to conduct a fair real-world experiment: downloading harmful files, compressed malware, and accessing phishing links to see how each program protects an average user.
Test #1: Manual Download of Suspicious Files
This is the most common risk type for users. Every decent antivirus should either prevent the download directly or block the file execution immediately after downloading.
The Results:
The results were surprisingly mixed:
- Some programs allowed the download completely!
- Some only issued a mild warning.
- Only a few blocked the download entirely.
Test #2: Scanning Compressed Files (ZIP/RAR/7z)
Most games and software you download come in compressed archives. The question is: Can the antivirus detect the virus inside the file without unzipping it?
The Surprise:
Many antivirus programs failed to detect malware inside archives. Even big names like Avira, AVG, and Panda faced clear issues here. However, certain programs stood out by stopping the download before the file even reached the drive.
(Make sure to check our guide on How to Safely Download Files from the Internet to avoid these risks).
Test #3: Phishing Links
This test simulates attempts to steal accounts via fake login pages (e.g., a fake Facebook or Banking login).
The Result:
Most antivirus programs failed this test!
Very few programs managed to block the phishing links. This is dangerous because phishing is currently the #1 cause of account hacking.
Test #4: External Virus Execution (Trojan)
All companies claim they "detect Trojans." But is that true in practice?
The Result:
- Some programs blocked the virus immediately.
- Some didn't detect it until I actually double-clicked it.
- Some allowed it to run completely — a total disaster!
The Biggest Shock: The Antivirus Itself is the Problem!
During the experiment, numerous usability issues appeared:
- Bloatware: Programs like Avast, AVG, and Panda install browsers, VPNs, or other junk software without your explicit permission.
- Clutter: 360 Total Security fills your device with unnecessary tools.
- Tricky UI: Kaspersky makes it very difficult to find the free version download link.
- Ad Spam: ZoneAlarm was the "winner" in annoying pop-ups and ads.
And the strangest part? Some of these programs have a history of violating privacy policies and selling user data.
Now for the Surprise: What About Windows Defender?
After comparing the performance across all tested software, the truth became clear:
Windows Defender offers protection equal to – and sometimes better than – most famous antivirus programs.
Why Windows Defender Wins:
- It displays Zero Ads.
- It installs No Bloatware.
- It is extremely light on system resources.
- It is 100% Free.
- It consistently receives top ratings in global AV-Test labs.
In Practical Tests:
- It stopped most threats immediately.
- It blocked compressed malicious files.
- It stopped harmful phishing links (via SmartScreen).
- It detected the external Trojan instantly.
So... Do You Really Need External Antivirus?
For the average user: No.
Windows Defender is completely sufficient.
You only need external software if:
- You are a company requiring multiple layers of security.
- You handle extremely sensitive data.
- You specifically need features like an advanced custom Firewall.
The Real Best Antivirus?
As a regular user, the best antivirus is YOU.
Most hacks happen because a user clicked a suspicious link or downloaded an untrusted file. (Read more about Common Cybersecurity Mistakes to Avoid).
Conclusion
Most free antivirus programs offer average protection in exchange for significant annoyance. Some install junk software, show ads, or even sell your data.
Windows Defender offers excellent protection, quietly, and without hassle. Safe internet behavior is more important than any software you can install.
Best Antivirus for 2025?
Windows Defender, without a doubt.