Comparison of Free Vs Paid Internet Security - Top 10 Free and Paid Products

First it is useful to point out who is choosing free software vs. paid programs. When new computers are sold, they are typically pre-loaded with at least one full featured security suite - available as a free trial for a month or two. This recommended paid product is optional and is made available for those who are new to computers, and may not be aware that alternatives exist, or where to go to find them - knowing that most who default into this category will opt to follow recommendations and stay with, and pay for the program.

On the other hand, if you've been around the block a few times, you have by now enough savvy to know that anyone will try to sell you anything. You're likely aware of other options and programs available to achieve the same results - whether self taught, by word of mouth, or doing your own web research. Regardless, you still end up wondering how exactly can free internet security compare or compete with the paid versions?

Contents: What's the difference?

Best Antivirus - Free vs. Paid Antivirus

Like many people I thought that my computer was well protected against viruses and other malicious software by the name brand antivirus software that was included with the computer when I bought it.

I browsed the Internet with no problem and everything seemed to work smoothly until one day something took over my machine. Random sounds and music began playing and the screen would flicker. Little cartoon characters would briefly appear on the screen. Yikes. What had infected my computer?

I cleared the browser cache, shut down the computer, and rebooted. The thing was still there. I ran a complete scan using the antivirus software that came with the computer. It did not find the problem.

I was still able to access the Internet, so I started searching for better antivirus software. I wasn't looking for a casual recommendation on a forum or someone's blog. I wanted to find some test results from a recognized authority. I was looking for an antivirus program with high detection rates, whether it was free or required payment.

I found that testing antivirus software is a specialized business now. Even the people at PC Magazine said that they don't do their own tests with live viruses. They rely on tests conducted by independent testing labs, including AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, ICSA Labs, Virus Bulletin, and West Coast Labs.

These independent testing labs have reliable data on detection rates for both free and paid antivirus software. However not all of these testing labs have user-friendly websites for the general public.