The widespread use of malicious software to steal data, take control of computers and commit other forms of cybercrime has led to the emergence of many alternatives to Windows Defender in the desktop security marketplace.
Even though Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 are more secure than the operating systems that came before them, the need for cybersecurity hasn’t diminished, according to the PWC 2014 U.S. State of Cybercrime Survey and the RSA Cybercrime Report for 2014.
Fortunately, there are several well-established antivirus vendors and desktop antimalware offerings, including:
- Symantec Norton 360 2015
- Kaspersky Total Security
- BitDefender Anti-virus
- McAfee Anti-virus
- Avira Free Anti-Virus
You should also consider adding other desktop utilities or security tools because vendors often bundle multiple products. For example, you might get antimalware and backup features from one vendor while another may offer antimalware, firewall and content filtering capabilities.
Firewalls are intended to prevent network traffic on ports that are not accessed by applications you routinely use. Content filters can help block malicious sites that you don’t want employees accessing while at work, such as online gambling.
