The best Windows antivirus software for home users

During July, August and September 2010 we continuously evaluated 16 security products using their default settings. They were allowed to update themselves at any time and query their in-the-cloud services. We focused on realistic test scenarios and challenged the products against real-world threats. Products had to demonstrate their capabilities using all components and protection layers.

Windows XP: September 2010

Producer	Certified	Protection	Repair	Usability
Avast Internet Security 5.0		41.7	75	100›
AVG Internet Security 9.0		83.3	33.3	83.3›
Avira Internet Security 10.0		83.3	58.3	58.3›
Bitdefender Internet Security Suite 2010 & 2011		75	33.3	91.7›
ESET Smart Security 4.2		58.3	75	83.3›
F-Secure Internet Security 2010 & 2011		83.3	83.3	91.7›
G Data Internet Security 2011		83.3	66.7	100›
Kaspersky Internet Security 2011		91.7	58.3	83.3›
McAfee Internet Security 2010 & 2011		58.3	50	75›
Microsoft Security Essentials 1.0		50	50	91.7›
Norman Security Suite Pro 8.0		33.3	25	75›
Norton Norton Internet Security 2010 & 2011		83.3	91.7	91.7›
Panda Security Internet Security 2010 & 2011		83.3	58.3	75›
PC Tools Internet Security 2010 & 2011		91.7	91.7	75›
Trend Micro Internet Security Pro 2010		66.7	75	75›
Webroot Internet Security Essentials 6.1 & 7.0		66.7	75	58.3›

Producer

Certified

Protection

Repair

Usability

September 2010
September 2010
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Evaluation based on a point system

All products can achieve a maximum of 6 points each in the three categories of protection, performance and usability. This means 18 points are the best possible test result.
At 10 points or higher, a product is awarded the AV-TEST seal of approval.
At 17.5 points or higher, AV-TEST also issues the "TOP PRODUCT" award. Additional details ›