To ensure your Chromebook is well-protected against online threats and malware, we’ve curated a list of the best antivirus solutions available in 2024. In this comprehensive guide, we review each antivirus software’s core offerings, pricing, pros and cons, and how they compare to one another. This in-depth review will help you choose the optimal antivirus software for your Google Chromebook.
If you’re after the best antivirus for Chromebooks, then you’re in the right place.We’ve tested the most popular antivirus solutions and ranked and reviewed them, looking at what they provide for ChromeOS.
1. TotalAV: Premium Protection for Your Chromebook
TotalAV offers exceptional malware detection and removal rates, making it one of the top choices for Chromebook security. With an easy-to-use interface and a suite of apps and browser extensions, TotalAV provides real-time antivirus protection and other security features.
Pros:
- Near-perfect malware detection rates
- Beginner-friendly setup
- Includes a VPN with unlimited data
- AI-based web protection against phishing attacks
- Minimal impact on device battery life
Cons:
- Lacks scheduled antivirus scans for ChromeOS
TotalAV’s Virtual Private Network (VPN), dark web monitoring, and password manager extension enhance online security and privacy, making it a comprehensive antivirus choice for Chromebook users.
2. Surfshark: Antivirus and VPN Solution for Chromebooks
Surfshark combines fast VPN capabilities with antivirus protection, data breach monitoring, and more. Its user-friendly interface and lightweight solution make it ideal for first-time Chromebook users.
Pros:
- Lightweight real-time antivirus
- Exceptional zero-day threat protection
- Includes ID theft protection and a private search engine
- World-class VPN included in the package
Cons:
- Relatively expensive short-term plans
Surfshark’s additional features, such as data breach monitoring and a private search engine, provide robust protection against threats and privacy risks.
3. McAfee: User-Friendly Antivirus for Beginners
McAfee Total Protection is an excellent choice for beginners, offering a comprehensive dashboard and intuitive features. It detects and blocks potentially dangerous apps and provides real-time protection.
Pros:
- Easy to set up and use
- Monitors the dark web for data breaches
- Provides VPN and safe browsing features
- Includes a vulnerability scanner for security patches
Cons:
- Can be relatively resource-intensive
McAfee’s help center with tutorials and guides makes it a great option for Chromebook users seeking ease of use.
4. Avast: Best Free Antivirus for Chromebook
Avast stands out as one of the best free antivirus options for Chromebook. It offers strong protection against malware, viruses, and ransomware and includes several useful features.
Pros:
- Impressive antivirus lab scores
- Free version available
- Includes defenses against ransomware
- Fast VPN included in premium plans
Cons:
- Free version has ads and pop-ups
Avast also offers WiFi scanning, system tune-up tools, and Web Shield, making it an excellent choice for those seeking free or affordable antivirus solutions.
5. Norton 360: Comprehensive ChromeOS Antivirus
Norton 360 provides a powerful suite of security tools, including a Chrome browser extension that protects against malicious content and threats.
Pros:
- Includes dark web monitoring and identity theft protection
- Features a reliable VPN and password manager
- Provides parental controls via a dedicated app
Cons:
- Multiple apps required for full security suite
Norton’s Safe Web extension blocks dangerous websites and phishing scams, ensuring a safer online experience for Chromebook users.
6. NordVPN Threat Protection: Antivirus and VPN Combo
NordVPN Threat Protection offers robust protection against online threats such as malicious websites and phishing scams. It is part of the NordVPN suite, which is one of the best VPNs for Chromebook.
Pros:
- Continuously updates its database of scam and fake sites
- Blocks intrusive ads and malicious websites effectively
- High-quality VPN included for secure browsing
Cons:
- Lacks a dedicated Chromebook app for antivirus scanning
NordVPN’s comprehensive VPN service, combined with its Threat Protection features, provides solid security and privacy for Chromebook users.
7. Malwarebytes: Top Antivirus for Chromebook Ransomware Protection
Malwarebytes excels in protecting Chromebooks from ransomware and other online threats. Its easy-to-schedule scans provide an additional layer of security.
Pros:
- Strong protection against ransomware threats
- Easy-to-schedule scans for ongoing protection
- Offers web protection to prevent phishing attacks
Cons:
- Lacks some advanced features available in other solutions
Malwarebytes’ focus on ransomware protection and its ease of use make it a solid choice for Chromebook users.
8. Trend Micro: Effective Antivirus for Unwanted Chromebook Apps
Trend Micro provides comprehensive antivirus protection, focusing on unwanted and dangerous Chromebook apps.
Pros:
- Robust protection against malicious apps and websites
- User-friendly interface
- Offers real-time protection against threats
Cons:
- Some advanced features may require premium plans
Trend Micro’s reliable protection against malicious apps and websites ensures that Chromebook users can browse and use their devices with confidence.
9. ESET: Network Security for ChromeOS
ESET offers robust network security for ChromeOS, providing protection against various online threats.
Pros:
- Advanced network security features
- Lightweight and efficient performance
- Reliable protection against malware
Cons:
- May require some customization for optimal use
ESET’s focus on network security and efficiency makes it a dependable choice for Chromebook users seeking a reliable antivirus solution.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the right antivirus software for your Chromebook is crucial to ensure robust security and protection against online threats. The antivirus solutions listed above offer a range of features and benefits to suit different needs and preferences. Choose the one that best aligns with your requirements for a secure and efficient Chromebook experience.
