8 Things to consider while buying antivirus online for device

Did you know, nearly 1.16 million cases of cyberattacks were reported in 2020!! There was an almost 300% rise in cyber attacks in India in 2020. This speaks volumes of cybersecurity awareness while working online using your laptops, computers, and smartphones. First, you need to understand that users collectively share much of the personally identifiable information (PII) on the internet. Therefore, it is critical to establish and maintain computer security.

Once you decide to buy one, there is a range of antivirus software available in the market. But, it would help if you research before buying antivirus online as each software has its own set of pros and cons.

Choosing the appropriate software is critical to your systems' performance and data security. So, before you buy antivirus, check out these 8 aspects to make the right choice.

1. Compatibility and speed

Gone are the days when people feared antivirus bogging down computer speeds. Firstly, the new generation of computers is robust enough to run smoothly even with antivirus on. But what if you aren't using one such system? Also, chances are you are a high-end user with a lower to the mid-segment system. In such cases, you need to evaluate if the antivirus software you purchase uses up too much of your system resources and, as a result, whether you should change to a less intrusive solution.

You can rely on reviews that help identify system-intensive choices, while on the other hand, they tell you all you need to know about the less system-intensive alternatives.

You will also want to ensure that your antivirus works on operating systems you may need to support. Mac-specific antivirus software isn't completely compatible with Macs, and it has led to a rising number of Mac-targeted viruses. So, you better begin your next antivirus hunt by keeping speed and compatibility in mind.

2. Cost of product

It is true that there is a lot of free antivirus software available, but did you check its reliability?

The job of standard antivirus software is to protect computers against hackers gaining access to sensitive information. Due to the amount of work they perform on your device, they must often be bought and refreshed every year to stay functioning.

Along with malware protection, you will need an antivirus to a firewall, an anti-spam filter, and other capabilities, which we will discuss later in the article. But the cost of such software varies depending on the features it provides and its duration.

You may get antivirus software online or at retail computer shops. A basic virus protection program will usually cost between INR 400 to INR5000 depending on the features, users, and subscription duration.

3. Accuracy and Efficiency in Threat Identification

Before buying an antivirus online, check its efficiency in catching the viruses with active monitoring. This is the key reason why you buy antivirus software.

You can count on your software for cyberthreat prevention if -

• It constantly searches for issues within the system and your network without breaking a chain
• Provide you with an in-depth analysis of attacks and actions to take.

4. Reliability of Threat Detection Rates

When antivirus software analyzes your system's data, it must properly determine which files are dangerous and which are not. Antivirus vendors create known-threat databases to filter out malicious files.

And since cyber threats are continuously evolving, antivirus software should be able to safeguard your system and data against all malicious programs, spyware, or adware.

Check the detection rates before you buy antivirus online, as it aids in evaluating your antivirus's performance by determining how frequently it correctly classifies clean files and possible threats.

5. Privacy Policy

Information security is of perennial importance amidst the rising cases of cybercrimes. Many antivirus vendors were found selling customer data to data brokers. Verify that the software vendor has not been involved in any prior disrepute by running a thorough history check.

Additionally, opt to access and read the product's privacy policy and see exactly how much information the software can access and what information it can use.

6. Support

This is a highly overlooked part when it comes to buying antivirus software. While most people think it is all about self-care, remember that any issue in the software is the vendor's liability. If you need an upgrade, or if your software does not update on its own, you will need their assistance.

Visit the official site of the various antivirus vendors before you zero down on a single product. Check out their customer forums and see how they are responding to user queries on social media platforms. You may also assess their response by live chat or calling their customer care number.

7. Range of features

Your antivirus software must have the best features to let you run your device confidently as you keep it connected to the internet. This means it should have URL and email protection. It is not possible to vouch for the reliability of every website you visit, and that is where you need your antivirus software to step up.

Buying antivirus software online will need you to identify whether it can run uninterruptedly without sacrificing security. It is usually preferable to utilize Internet Security suites for heavy internet users.

Other characteristics that we cannot ignore include theft prevention, rescue, data privacy, social networking safeguards, parental control, cloud storage, and anti-spam. Given that we are paying for the program, we have a right to expect the greatest performance possible.

8. Free Trial and Payment Terms

Consider purchasing antivirus software online that provides a free trial period so you can get a feel for how it operates and whether it is a good fit for you. Occasionally, the functions are not completely available during the free trial period, which is not ideal. Choose one that provides a complete view of what is offered — this transparency frequently indicates that the premium version is worth the money.

Moreover, it is critical to examine the payment conditions offered when buying antivirus software online. Certain programs are available for a one-time purchase, while others need monthly or annual subscriptions. You must decide which terms suit your requirements.

Bottomline

If you're someone who finds technology daunting, you'll probably feel more at ease with an easier-to-use software. And when it comes to user-friendly and seamless antivirus in the market with a knack for robust security mechanisms, K7 is a trusted name.

It is recommended for home and office users who prefer intuitive dashboard settings and quick tools to run virus tests for securing the system. The subscriptions are usually one year in duration and may renew automatically after the subscription term. Also, for those who want to have a hassle-free experience of using K7, check out the Ultimate Security Infinity that offers lifetime validity at INR 3,999/-.

Having a keen interest in technology and gadgets. I am a tech enthusiast with a passion for Tech-based content writing, and I have been writing and describing IT-related new updates for the last 8 years.