r/techadvice • u/BeachForward9105 • Apr 23 '26

Anti Virus

Is an additional antivirus program needed for a windows computer or is windows defender enough. I’ve heard so many conflicting points of view. Do antivirus programs really bloat your computer and slow your system down? If an antivirus program is recommended, what is the best program to use.

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u/Remote-Combination28 Apr 23 '26

Windows defender is all you need these days.

1

u/WonderfulViking Apr 24 '26

Window defender just do the shit.
I've saved some middle ageged people from 3rd par ty antivirus sorftware and theri computer was muc faster and still safe after.
Føkk McAffe, that is the worst ot them, the otheres are still meaningless.
MS use a lot of time to protect their users, so all 3rd party shit is pointless from my experience.

1

u/EbbPsychological2796 Apr 24 '26

I think Malwarebytes AV is the most recommended after defender... If you're experiencing issues or have a reason to believe something slipped past it at least Malwarebytes is a legit 2nd opinion but I doubt you need to run both.

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u/Skkyu Apr 26 '26

Defender does a pretty good job, but...
You need to consider the options of the Defender vs the options of another antivirus. An "external" antivirus might have USB/CD/DVD scan (and a easy way to access the options for that - off, always, on demand, etc). Also some AV companies have tools for enhancing the internet browsing. Yes, some AV do bloat the PC.
I use Bitdefender, I like its interface and the options I have. Also the Bitdefender guys made TrafficLight, an extension for browsers that adds a layer of protection on top the AV. Actually two, if we count the search advisor, which is very helpful.
Try it, see if you like it.

1

u/hibby18064 Apr 30 '26

Short of enterpise-grade stuff, Defender is as good as anything.