We know your secret desire. You want to be secure online, and we know how to do it. Antivirus has long been a must for protecting your software. However, how to choose the best and what is new in 2021? Read on.

What is an antivirus?

Antivirus (AV) is a modern level of security for your device to work on the Internet. Just as you take care of your own health, you also need to take care of your device’s information because AV software is one of the best tools for data protection. Norton 360 managed to become a favorite of many users in 2021. This AV has a wide range of security, a unique mechanism to combat cyberattacks, a light information panel, positive feedback from people, and most importantly, a good price.

Why update your AV program?

Outdated AV software is even worse than no software at all. Any system is good until it is updated regularly. Don’t ignore update notifications. It doesn’t matter how long before the AV expires. You are in immediate danger if the protection program is outdated. However, an update message means that the PC is infected.

We mentioned that hackers are constantly evolving. Therefore, the AV software must be updated for the safety of devices. Experts are watching what new threats appear, how they work, how the system should recognize them and fight them.

The update is like a teacher to your antivirus program. It shows how to
interact with cybercriminals' activities and how to be a perfect shield
for the whole system. 

The more information that IT security companies accumulate, the more updates you need to run your antivirus. Besides, the scanning mechanism and related actions, such as virus removal, are thoroughly checked.

The signature file is also important for the safe operation of the device. That is, the identification code (signature) is protected by antivirus. AV software offers what fixes to install and how to deal with the biggest vulnerabilities.

The best updates of AV in 2021

Smart firewall

Suggestions for improvement are steady, whether you use Windows or iOS. AV should provide customization options for beginners and advanced users.

The firewall must meet your requirements and show which links are safe to click, regardless of the user’s knowledge level. Automatic tracking of suspicious activity logs is important for device security.

Password manager

The latest AVs have the function of automatically generating secure passwords. They not only preserve them but also make them special. It may not be as perfect as in specialized programs (1Password, Dashlane, LastPass), but do not forget that the world of antivirus software does not stand still and may become a big competitor to other PRO applications by the end of 2021.

Safe search

Browser extensions are installed to alert users about unsafe websites. Reliable browsing of various resources should be accompanied by protection against phishing sites. The presence of “Isolation Mode” is required for the use of the bank on the Internet. This helps to avoid your visibility to hackers.

Identity protection

It includes many features. For instance:

• legal assistance;
• assistance in the recovery of personal data;
• freezing trusts;
• monitoring of identity card and social security;
• credit-reporting monitoring.

Virtual Private Network

We recommend choosing an antivirus that guarantees a refund in case of misunderstanding.

One of these applications can be a VPN. There are several free applications. We advise you to pay attention to HotSpot Shield VPN, Windscribe, TunnelBear, Hide.me, ProtonVPN.

This will give you access to web pages that are censored in your location. Together with the VPN, your possibilities on the Internet are unlimited.

Your IP address is hidden, which is a guarantee of network security. However, be careful, as free applications may transfer data about you to third parties. If you notice an unstable connection, slow speed, significant atypical search delay, change the VPN. 

VPN from Norton 360 helps connect to almost 80 places in 30 countries (Australia, Japan, South Africa, India, Ukraine). Make sure there is ad blocking, magazine ban policy, strong encryption.

Cloud storage

A third party allegedly supports this external storage. It securely stores your information in a remote database. No need to clutter your computer’s hard drive files; just do a data backup.

Backup information should be available in your chosen AV, demonstrating its modernity. They are analogs of known cloud storage tools, such as Dropbox, OneDrive, iCloud. Schedule backups for the security of your more valuable data.

You do not need to memorize all the information or even physically own the device to store it. You can share data with individuals. If AV provides data backup, it significantly saves your time, keeps your mind clear, and cuts expenses.

How to update AV?

The process is very simple and clear for every user. The software usually informs you of new updates with the message “Real-time updates”, “Updates”, or “Check for updates”, etc. Then you just need to follow instructions and keep your software up-to-date.

There is a function to view previously updated modules. You can set notifications when you need to update your AV urgently. By following the update, you interfere with the work of an attacker who wants to hack you.

Conclusion

The encyclopedia of viruses “Bitdefender” is huge and the names of new cyber threats are being invented every day. A specialized resource shows how much device damage is happening right now around the world. Let these sources about viruses be the only places where you will get acquainted with cyberattacks.

Hackers are constantly trying to profit from your page and you may not suspect it. There is no device with Wi-Fi that cannot be hacked. Therefore, AV companies are constantly upgrading their systems. All because cyber threats are only growing and their new methods need to be monitored. 

No antivirus is perfect. Mobile users often need to download additional applications for better performance. For complete protection of the device, you should constantly take care of updates.

How to choose your AV among thousands of imperfect ones? Choose the best one, the one that is constantly being upgraded and has all the features you need to work with your devices safely.