Surface Pro offers users all the flexibility and functionality they will ever need in a pc, and already comes with Windows defender, which offers a good level of protection. However, if you want better protection against ransomware, malware, and other threats while surfing the net and performing other tasks, you should consider some better performing antivirus software.
If you are not sure of the right antivirus software for your needs, keep reading as we walk you through some of the best options out there.
6 Best Antivirus Software for Surface Pro
- Bitdefender – best for comprehensive web protection
- Avira Antivirus pro – Best antivirus software in terms of simplicity
- Total AV – best antivirus software for comprehensive protection
- Panda Security antivirus – best antivirus for cyber protection
- Norton AV – best antivirus software for online privacy
- BullGuard Antivirus – best antivirus software for the tech-savvy
1. Bitdefender – Best Antivirus Software for Comprehensive Web Protection
PRICING: starting at $29.99 per year
If you are looking to surf the web and explore its numerous potentials with peace of mind, Bit defender antivirus software will always be a great option. Since your surface pro already comes with its in-house protection software, it’s important to find an option that provides better protection and more robust performance. Bitdefender excels in that aspect.
With sophisticated malware protection capability and regular and timely updates, you can focus on your work without putting your device at unnecessary risks. Bitdefender is completely safe for your surface pro, and you can carry out intensive and deep scans at will without any issues.
KEY FEATURES:
- Protection via Privacy firewall
- Anonymous web surfing via VPN
- Anti-spam and anti-phishing protection
- One-click optimizer
REASONS TO BUY
- Easy-to-use interface
- Great at detecting malware
- Good customer support regardless of the plan
REASONS TO AVOID
- The paid plan is relatively expensive
- In-built VPN is limited
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2. Avira Antivirus Pro – Best Antivirus Software in Terms of Simplicity
PRICING: starts at $47.99 per year
If you are looking for a reliable antivirus program that is easy to use and stands its ground against various types of threats, Avira antivirus pro should be a great option for you. With over 500 million active users worldwide, Avira remains one of the most trusted software out there.
When it comes to efficiency Avira is up there with the best. Avira antivirus software constantly gets strong backing from several independent testing labs. Avira is great at detecting malware and protecting your surface pro against even the most sophisticated threats in the ever-evolving cyberspace.
If you are not too tech-savvy like many others, Avira has got you covered because you can easily install and start using the antivirus software without breaking a sweat.
KEY FEATURES:
- Strong protection against malware
- In-built VPN
- Protection against ransomware
- Flexible browser extensions
REASONS TO BUY
- Easy to use
- Excellent performances during lab tests
REASON TO AVOID:
- Its free version only offers limited cyber protection
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3. TOTAL AV Antivirus – Best Antivirus Software for Comprehensive Protection
PRICING: Paid plan starts at $29 a year
It’s hard to talk about antivirus software in the market today without mentioning TOTAL AV. This is because when it comes to offering comprehensive security and protection against stubborn viruses, it is one of the go-to solutions in the market today. TOTAL AV boasts several useful features and solutions that have made it a household name in the cyber security industry.
Several independent testing labs have attested to its cloud scanning, ransomware detection, and real-time protection capabilities. If you are looking for maximum protection for all your sensitive information and activity, TOTAL AV may be the last antivirus solution you’ll ever need.
KEY FEATURES:
- Real-time antivirus protection
- PAU protection
- Anti-scam protection functionality
- Ransomware detection
REASONS TO BUY
- Real-time device protection
- Free version available
- Excellent customer support
REASONS TO AVOID:
- The paid plan can become expensive
- The free version only offers basic protection
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4. Panda Security Antivirus – Best Antivirus for Cyber Protection
PRICING: starting at $26.24 per year
Panda is one of the antivirus programs that have the interests of their customers at heart. While they do an excellent job of protecting you against various threats while surfing the web, they also go a step further to ensure top-notch customer support. Panda antivirus has an aesthetically appealing user interface, which looks like a deliberate move to stand out from the competition.
Panda antivirus isn’t only about aesthetics though. It’s got loads of features to ensure your surface pro enjoys maximum protection. It has cleanup features that scan and clean up your computer in a few clicks. It also has safe browsing features that detect and filter out malicious and suspicious URLs. There’s also protection against malware, as well as USB protection that ensures your PC is protected while plugging different USB sticks into your drive.
KEY FEATURES:
- In-built VPN
- USB protection
- Firewall
- Password protection
REASONS TO BUY:
- Good web protection
- Sleek User interface
- Ransomware detection/protection
REASONS TO AVOID:
- The free version offers limited protection
- Its VPN feature is limited
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5. Norton Antivirus – Best Antivirus Software for Online Privacy
PRICING: starts at $70 for a year
Norton antivirus is a household name when it comes to cyber security, and it would be an excellent fit for your Microsoft surface pro. Norton antivirus is efficient at giving you top-notch protection against various threats when browsing the internet or performing other tasks. It enjoys strong backing from several independent testing labs and even ranks first on the list of a few testers.
Perhaps one of the most appealing features of Norton antivirus is its secure VPN, which allows one to browse the web securely and anonymously. If you are performing a lot of online activities and require good protection, Norton antivirus might be a good option for you.
KEY FEATURES:
- Firewall
- Secure and reliable VPN
- Parental control capability
- Password manager
REASONS TO BUY:
- Uses low amount of resources
- Comes with loads of extras
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Can become expensive
- No free version
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6. Bullguard Antivirus – Best Antivirus Software for the Tech-Savvy
PRICING: starts at $29.99 a year.
BullGuard antivirus in has carved a niche for itself as one of the best high-tech solutions out there. It is specifically developed to offer gamers advanced and maximum protection against threats that may be lurking around while they play their favorite games. While Bullguard is great for high-tech users, it can offer excellent protection for your surface pro, especially if you will be spending lots of time surfing the web. One cool thing you would love in Bullguard is its backup feature. It offers you cloud storage, which allows you to store up to 5GB of data and files, and retrieve them in the future if any issues come up with your device.
Bullguard has several plans at different price ranges, each offering various levels of protection. Bullguard antivirus is their entry-level package and seems to be the most basic. However, it still offers real-time scanning, as well as excellent protection against malware, phishing, and ransomware. It also features game boosting capabilities and offline protection. Higher plans offer even more at pocket–friendly costs.
KEY FEATURES:
- Firewall
- Excellent Virus protection
- Parental control capabilities
- Password manager
- Secure VPN
REASONS TO BUY:
- Free trials available on all plans
- Great customer support
- Easy to set up
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Their UI is a bit outdated
- VPN feature is a bit limited
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References and Links
- https://technology.purplepedia.com/microsoft/does-a-microsoft-surface-laptop-need-antivirus/
- https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/forum/all/surface-pro-antivirus/d383931a-043a-4168-ba2f-a1d1897fd3af
- https://antivirusjar.com/do-you-need-antivirus-for-microsoft-surface-pro/
- https://www.computerforensicsworld.com/what-antivirus-package-for-windows-surface-pro-4/
- https://www.cnet.com/google-amp/news/best-antivirus/
- https://www.techradar.com/best/best-windows-10-antivirus