Do You Really Need Antivirus Software?

Anyone who's ever owned an electronic device with access to the internet has likely been prompted at some stage to purchase antivirus software for protection. For a long time, it was a much-needed tool. 

Although, with improving technology and built-in security, some users question whether antivirus software is still necessary for 2023? 

You still need antivirus protection software in 2023 on the majority of devices. If your device uses Windows, macOS, or Android, you’ll need antivirus software for added protection. However, there’s one exception — iPhones don’t require antivirus as the device is already very secure.

In this article, we’ll examine which operating system needs the most protection, the future of antivirus software, and which free software is best for Windows users.

We’ll also touch on the need for antivirus software when using a VPN. To learn more about antivirus and its uses in the modern age, read on.

What Operating System Needs the Most Antivirus Protection?

Different operating systems have different levels of security when it comes to keeping your information safe and protecting your device. For example, iPhones don’t require any antivirus protection software.

On top of this, not all operating systems are attacked by the same viruses or as frequently. As a result, some operating systems require additional antivirus protection more than others. 

All operating systems, except for iPhones, require antivirus protection. However, the majority of computer viruses are created for Windows OS. As a result, it's imperative that you install adequate antivirus protection on your Windows devices to ensure that your information remains safe.

It’s believed that most hackers attack Windows operating systems because they’re the most widely used — there are far fewer users on macOS, which makes it less attractive to hackers.

With that said, macOS users continue to grow, so it may not be long before Mac users, too, are susceptible to more cyber attacks.

Ransomware is one of the most devastating and common forms of malware that users come into contact with. Ransomware accesses your private data and then holds the information for ransom with the intention of extorting money from users.

One hundred twenty-one ransomware incidents were reported in the US in the first half of 2021. This is a 64% increase from the previous year. 

The vast majority of ransomware incidents on Windows and ransomware attacks cost over 20 billion dollars in 2020. However, the majority of ransomware attacks affect business, with small companies being particularly vulnerable.

To protect yourself against ransomware attacks, install effective antivirus protection software. 

Is Antivirus Software Becoming Obsolete?

We've already established that iPhones don’t require antivirus protection software, and you've also likely noticed fewer advertisements for antivirus protection in recent years; these factors combined leave consumers wondering if antivirus software is becoming obsolete.

Antivirus software is less important than it was before. Devices now have improved built-in security, and antivirus software on its own is insufficient protection against some types of malware and hackers.

Therefore, antivirus is becoming less practical and, unless things change, may become obsolete. 

However, in the current day, antivirus protection software is still a necessary tool if you wish to access the internet without becoming a victim of cybercrime or unwillingly sharing your personal data.

While antivirus software may soon be a thing of the past, it still serves a critical function presently. 

Do You Need Antivirus if You Have Windows Security?

Microsoft Windows Defender is Windows' attempt to provide users with a built-in security system that protects their device and data. This system is effective and can provide your Windows device with added protection, although many users wonder whether Windows Security is enough.

You still need antivirus protection software even if you have Windows Security. Windows Defender is close to competing with third-party protection software, although it still falls short.

As a result, to ensure that your Windows device is protected, it's best to add antivirus protection software. 

Do You Still Need Antivirus With a VPN?

Virtual Private Networks, or VPN for short, are an effective way of hiding your location from local wifi providers, which allows you to access the web while keeping some of your data private.

VPN also prevents local internet providers from injecting malicious code into your browsing sessions. However, do you still need antivirus protection with a VPN?

You still need antivirus protection for your devices, even if you’re using a VPN. VPNs don’t provide you with protection against malware and viruses. This can leave you vulnerable to hackers and malicious code if you don't have effective antivirus protection software. 

What Are the Best Free Antivirus for Windows 10?

If you own a Windows device and you’re wondering which free antivirus protection is best for Windows 10, check out these great software programs that can keep you safe on the web: 

• Bit Defender 
• Total AV
• PC Protect
• McAfee 
• Norton 

While there are numerous free antivirus protection software options available to you, you'll have added security as well as bonus features if you pay for an antivirus protection package.

Extra features include parental locks, which allow patents to view their children's activities online and block potentially harmful or inappropriate content. 

Nevertheless, free essential protection is much better than no protection at all. Although investing in adequate antivirus protection can be a cost-effective move if you consider how much you could potentially lose if you’re the victim of a cyber attack or ransomware — the average ransomware attack costs the victim roughly $80,000 in 2019.

Windows and Mac OS contain similar levels of security, so if you’re a Mac user, it's also vitally important that you protect your PC or laptop with adequate antivirus protection.

Quick Recap

Antivirus software is still necessary for 2023 for the vast majority of devices. Only iPhones have enough protection for anti-virus software to be redundant. 

Therefore, if you own a device that isn't an iPhone, it's best to invest in some extra protection for your devices. This can protect your devices against malware and prevent you from becoming a victim of cybercrime. 

While anti-virus protection software still serves a function in 2023, the need for this software is decreasing as devices and OS are improving. Therefore, in the future, anti-virus protection software may become obsolete.