Installing one of the best antivirus applications is necessary, because viruses are always a threat. If you want to protect your computer and your files, you need to use one of these programs.

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus 2013

Bitdefender will secure whatever browser you are using, so you are safe when you go shopping or surfing. The best thing about Bitdefender is everything can be done on autopilot so you don’t have to mess with the settings. The software will also scan any USB flash drives you connect to your computer.

Bitdefender will also guard your computer from phishing scams, spyware, viruses, social media threats, and other online malware. With Bitdefender you are also protected from threats on instant messaging and email. The software doesn’t just scan email and IM for scams and malware, but your IM messages can be encrypted for more protection. It also has tools to keep your Twitter and Facebook activities private.

Kaspersky Anti-Virus

Kaspersky is very customizable and easy to use. It has controls for toggling specific features on and off, adjust security levels, scheduling scans and for modifying the interface. The software also has a URL Advisor that keeps your computer safe when browsing. The plug-in can be used on Firefox and IE and it will automatically notify you if the website has viruses or worms.

Kaspersky also has a gamer and virtual keyboard mode. It also has a virtual terminal so you can store your passwords, credit card info and other personal details. Its virtual keyboard has another advantage; it will prevent keystroke-recognition malware from stealing your passwords. The program also has a desktop security gadget to give you easier access to the software.

Norton Antivirus

Norton Antivirus protects your computer from viruses and spyware and it will also check your email and instant messages for infected attachments, viruses and malicious links. Norton Antivirus will also monitor your Facebook feed if there are links to dangerous downloads or unsafe sites.

If you download a program with malware, Norton will let you know. Norton protects your computer from viruses thanks to its huge database of known threats. Furthermore, the program conducts behavioral analysis to assess files for any suspicious file behavior. This is a very effective way to find malware and viruses without a signature yet.

F-Secure Anti-Virus

The F-Secure Anti-Virus software uses advanced technology to provide fast and secure protection. With it you are protected from Trojans, worms, spyware, viruses and it can also find and destroy root kits. With the software you are protected from malware, cookies and attempts to change your PC registry.

The program is easy to use, and the scanning process is very simple. Its installer will also check for the presence of other antirust programs and these will be removed to avoid complications. The interface is easy to navigate and you can adjust the settings and choose when to scan. One of the nice features of the application is the dashboard where you can access vital functions, stats, scans and updates. It also has an icon that will notify you if there is something wrong.

It is absolutely essential for any PC user to learn the best antivirus applications because it will mean the difference between keeping your data and risk losing them to hackers. The time you spend researching can save you a lot of trouble later on.

Tom is a free lancer publisher of http://www.bestinlife.net/ and currently he is writing a book on antivirus applications.