The best malware removal software of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

ZDNet

TechnologyZDNet·Jul 9, 2026·15 min read

The best malware removal software of 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

Cybercriminals constantly looking for new ways to trick us into installing malware that can invade our privacy, steal our data, or damage our systems. Malware can infect many kinds of internet-connected devices, including your PC, smartphone, and even your smart home setup, such as routers. Some infections are obvious to spot, but others operate covertly in the background.

Built-in security features such as antivirus software and firewalls have become far more effective in recent years, but more security never hurts, and acting fast can eliminate malicious threats before any damage is done. Install a trustworthy, secure malware removal app to remove existing infections and keep your devices clean. Effective software can also prevent worst-case scenarios by identifying and isolating threats such as adware, spyware, and ransomware before they fully infect your system.

Also: The best VPNs: Expert tested and reviewed

In ZDNET's July update, we completed an in-depth editorial revision of our 2026 guide. We also answered more of your frequent questions around malware removal, and added AVG to our top recommendations.

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What is the best malware removal software right now?

Our top recommendation is Bitdefender Antivirus Plus, which scans your device in real-time and on demand. It can then identify and disinfect or quarantine files and applications deemed malicious or compromised by malware. Plans start at $25 per year. You could also check out Malwarebytes, another of our favorites, which offers solid threat protection.

We tested the best malware removal software to find tools that detect threats such as potentially unwanted programs (PUPs), Trojans, and ransomware on your device and remove them before they wreak havoc. Read on to explore our top picks for the best malware removal software solutions in the market today.

The best malware removal software of 2026

Bitdefender

Bitdefender is well-known in the antivirus space and is one of the best choices for malware removal on Windows and macOS systems.

Why we like it: Bitdefender Antivirus Plus detects all kinds of malware, including ransomware, that could compromise your files and backups. It will either disinfect or quarantine compromised items. You can enable real-time protection and/or run manual scans on your system, high-risk locations, or specific files.

Review: Bitdefender Total Security

In addition to malware removal, Bitdefender offers anti-phishing protection, an anti-tracker to help maintain your privacy while you browse, and a virtual private network (VPN). However, you're limited to 200MB of traffic daily, and its performance could be better.

Note that Antivirus Plus for Windows includes a handful of additional features, such as Wi-Fi security assessments, a file shredder, and performance settings that add value for Windows users, while some advanced features are not available on macOS.

Who it's for: Bitdefender is a great one-size-fits-all malware removal solution with excellent security features and should suit the majority of home users.

It also scores very well on independent lab tests for Windows and Mac operating systems. Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is the basic paid tier, priced at $25 for one device or $30 for three devices, though it often goes on sale. It might seem a bit steep, but this equates to only a few dollars per month to stay protected.

Who should look elsewhere: Bitdefender does have free versions available for Windows and macOS that offer basic antivirus scanning, but they are more limited in scope. If you want a more flexible free solution, explore my other recommendations.

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Screenshot by Emily Long/ZDNET

Malwarebytes protects your system from threats like Trojans, botnets, adware, spyware, crypto-miners, and potentially unwanted programs and modifications to your PC, smartphone, and tablet.

Why we like it: Malwarebytes protects against ransomware, exploits, brute force attacks, and tampering on Windows. On macOS, it also blocks apps from developers suspected of releasing malware.

Review: Malwarebytes

Users on both systems can add the Browser Guard extension to Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge to detect and block malware, third-party ads and trackers, and scams on the web, and Malwarebytes has achieved solid AV test scores. The app also provides advice and recommendations to users.

Who it's for: Anyone who wants protection for both PC operating systems and mobile devices.

The app is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, and quarantines any detected threats that need review, deletion, or restoration. Malwarebytes' free tier allows manual scans, while its paid plans can run scheduled scans alongside real-time protection that detects and blocks threats.

Its paid plans start at $60 per year for three devices. This is pricey relative to the features offered, but the app is easy to use and performs well.

Who should look elsewhere: This is a useful set-and-forget antivirus. If you want more control over protection and advanced features, you may want to explore our other recommendations.

Also: Best remote access software 2026

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AVG

We recommend AVG for people who want a malware removal service that also protects them while they are browsing online.

Why we like it: Available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, AVG has consistently shown itself to be a strong antivirus. Independent lab testing by AV-Comparatives showed high malware detection rates both online and offline, with few false positives.

Also: How to encrypt any email in Outlook, Gmail, and other popular services

This antivirus updates automatically, and you can choose to perform a malware scan whenever you wish. We also like the software's safe browsing features including real-time scanning, malicious file and link blocking, and anti-phishing protection.

It doesn't have many advanced offerings, such as identity theft protection or cyber insurance, but as a standalone antivirus suite with solid protection, scanning, and browser protection, it has still earned a place among our favorites.

Who it's for: If you're looking for solid antivirus protection and safe browsing, AVG is one of the better choices on the market.

There's also a free option that I recommend if you'd rather avoid subscription costs. AVG has provided free antivirus protection for years, and the quality of this service has remained high. However, if you are interested in trying out a premium plan, expect to pay $3.89 per month to protect one device.

Who should look elsewhere: Some users report that the tool does have high computing and resource costs, and so it might not suit those running on older, less-powerful systems.

Also: Best business password managers

AVG features: On-demand scanning | Antivirus protection | Safe browsing features | Advanced ransomware protection | Free for personal use

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Avast

Avast is well-known in the security industry, making it one of the top antivirus programs available to consumers. Best of all, it's free.

Why we like it: Avast One Essential is a free malware scanning and removal product available for Windows and macOS that comes with a whole suite of features to keep your system clear of threats. It also scores highly on independent lab tests.

Also: The best password manager for families: Expert tested and reviewed

Avast One scans your files on access for malware and offers options for scheduled and on-demand scans. The app quarantines any detected threats for further action. You also have access to a firewall and ransomware protection.

Another feature we like is its scam guidance, which could make this a great solution for someone who isn't very technically inclined.

However, Wi-Fi network security checks and certain other features are available only with Avast One with Premium Security, an antivirus subscription plan.

Who it's for: If you're looking for a free malware removal solution, this is for you. However, Avast often attempts to upsell you in-app, which can be a nuisance. Otherwise, it's an excellent choice for comprehensive protection at no cost.

Who should look elsewhere: It's an excellent app, despite the free version's limits. Still, you could also look at Avast's premium subscriptions for additional protection, available for $50 per year, which include advanced features such as phishing protection and scam blocking.

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Screenshot by Jada Jones/ZDNET

ESET is another digital security provider that scores well on independent antivirus tests, making it one of our favorites -- especially for in-depth malware scanning.

Why we like it: ESET's Home Security software can detect and remove threats from Windows and macOS systems. You get real-time and on-demand scanning with various customization options. In addition, ESET will identify and quarantine viruses, ransomware, spyware, and other malware threats.

Also: The best free VPNs: Expert tested

Who it's for: Anyone who wants in-depth, high-quality antivirus scans first, and other features second.

ESET doesn't have a fully free anti-malware program beyond its 30-day trial period, although it does offer a free on-demand scanner for Windows that detects and removes malware. While there is no real-time protection, it can back up other security tools on your system.

The Essential package costs $50 per year and includes a firewall, anti-spam protection, and other advanced privacy and security features if you only want to protect one device.

ESET NOD32 Antivirus is cheaper at $40 per year but only includes basic antivirus for Windows or macOS. The ESET Ultimate costs a hefty $180 per year, but it's the only tier with protection for five devices, a VPN, identity protection, and browser privacy features.

Who should look elsewhere: Anyone using other anti-malware tools. I tested ESET Home Security Essentials, packaged as ESET Cyber Security on macOS and ESET Internet Security on Windows.

I found it's not the most intuitive to install or use, especially with its more granular settings. It also doesn't play nicely with other anti-malware systems, but don't forget that it is a top-quality anti-malware solution. If you want an easier-to-operate option, consider one of the entry-level solutions on my list.

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Bitdefender Antivirus Plus is our pick for the best overall malware removal software because it provides comprehensive and reliable protection against threats across platforms at a reasonable price. The other four malware removal options on this list also offer excellent protection with various features worth considering.

Best malware removal software

On-access scans

Multi-platform

Free tier

Notable features

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus

✓

Anti-phishing and anti-tracking, live support

Malwarebytes

✓

Ransomware protection (Windows), Browser Guard

AVG

✓

Safe browsing, anti-phishing, ransomware protection

Avast One Essential

✓

Network protection, firewall, ransomware protection

ESET Home Security Essential

✓

Firewall, anti-spam protection

Choose this malware removal software…

If you want…

Bitdefender Antivirus Plus

All-around antivirus protection that effectively detects and removes malware. Bitdefender Antivirus provides real-time protection and flexible scanning options.

Malwarebytes

Effective, user-friendly malware detection and removal. Malwarebytes also provides a range of protective services, including browser protection and a VPN.

AVG

A robust malware scanner and removal service that also provides safe browsing features. Expect anti-phishing, malicious file and link alerts, as well as warnings when you encounter scam emails.

Avast One Essential

Comprehensive protection and malware removal at no cost. The free tier is limited, but it will certainly help you handle malware detection and removal tasks.

ESET Home Security Essential

A robust, highly customizable anti-malware program. While it's not the best option for beginners, if you are tech-savvy, this software could be the best option for you.

When selecting the best malware removal software of 2026, it's important to explore the features on offer, as no malware solution is exactly the same. For example, some prioritize real-time scanning over in-depth scans, phishing protection might only be available on specific plans, and operating system capacity can vary. Consider the following factors:

Scan types: Some malware removal tools automatically scan files on your device for malware whenever they are downloaded, opened, or executed. This is known as on-access scanning. Others will scan only on demand and when you manually click a button. If you want real-time protection that you don't have to think about, consider a tool with on-access scans.

Compatibility: Whether you want a malware removal service for Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS, you'll need to check whether the solution you are interested in is compatible first.

Real-time monitoring: Not every malware removal solution offers real-time monitoring and threat scanning that run quietly in the background. It's important to find out if the malware removal service also offers real-time functions or is more of a cleanup tool.

Phishing protection: Phishing is one of the most common threats we face online today, and may result in you accidentally downloading and executing malware. When possible, consider using a solution that alerts you to these threats.

Paid or free: You don't always need to pay for reliable malware protection. Free tools like Avast One Essential and secondary scanners from Emsisoft and Malwarebytes do a solid job of detecting and quarantining threats. However, a paid program may provide more features or customization options.

Updates: Ensure that the malware solution you choose provides frequent security updates, including updates to its signature database. After all, malware is constantly being developed, refined, and updated, and so our defenses must be, too.

Additional features: If you're just looking for malware removal, a more straightforward program or secondary scanner may be all you need. However, some software offers additional features to protect your device, such as firewalls or VPNs. The right bundles could also save you from additional subscription costs associated with installing extra software. It's worth checking customer reviews, however, to see if bolt-on additional features are enough to influence your decision.

To select the best malware removal tools, we identified programs from reputable security companies. We then reviewed independent test results and conducted hands-on comparisons of features, performance, and user experience. We conducted most of our testing on macOS Sequoia and Windows 11, depending on software compatibility.

Note: The Windows version of most malware removal programs includes additional features unavailable on macOS.

Latest news on malware

A new Remote Access Trojan (RAT) dubbed QuimaRAT, marketed as an offensive security tool, is targeting multiple operating systems.

Security researchers reported a prompt injection threat that allows attackers to gain full remote access to a target machine if a user directs an AI chatbot to a specific GitHub repository.

Believed to be the work of North Korean cybercriminals, a new macOS campaign that leverages Gaslight malware aims to confuse AI agents and evade detection by fabricating system messages.

Cybercriminals are targeting European hotels through a fake Windows Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) crashes and ClickFix attacks.

Once anti-malware software has detected a threat, it attempts to stop that threat from wreaking further havoc on your system. In some cases, it can disinfect files and delete malware. In others, the software will quarantine the files until users assess and manually remove the threat.

Antivirus and anti-malware are two names for the same thing. Traditionally, antivirus software protects against known security threats, but as threats evolve, so do defense programs. Most current antivirus software stands up to more sophisticated malware like spyware, rootkits, and ransomware. In addition, cloud-based programs can be frequently updated as threats emerge.

Malware removal is part of anti-malware, and paid antivirus, along with some free plans, typically offers on-access or real-time protection. Alternatively, you can use an on-demand scanner that will detect and clean up any threats that are present.

Major operating systems have built-in protection against malware. Windows Defender, for example, does a fine job of catching and removing threats, especially if you follow security best practices on your device. A handful of third-party antivirus alternatives with malware removal are also available for free. You can upgrade to a premium paid tier if you need or want additional features like a firewall or VPN.

Yes, although it depends on the malware removal solution you choose. If you opt for a free package, protection may only be limited to cleanups and manual scans, for example. In comparison, other solutions -- and usually paid ones -- will provide real-time threat monitoring.

If you've found a suspicious file you suspect to be malware, it is often the first thing we think of doing -- delete the file, wipe it from the recycle bin, and get on with our day. However, malicious software doesn't rely on a single file and may have replicated itself across multiple areas. Removing one file may leave malicious processes behind -- run a malware removal scan instead.

If you have installed an antivirus program from a trusted source, it is likely fine. The pop-up may indicate you have malware or are experiencing phishing designed to frighten you into manually disabling your existing antivirus. These types of "alerts" are very common on dangerous websites and are scams that try to get you to download a malicious package to "clean" your PC. Ignore them and close the browser window.

Sometimes there will be signs that your device is infected with malware. You may notice that your laptop, desktop PC, or smartphone is running more slowly than usual; your device may freeze, crash, or overheat; and you might spot unfamiliar software, such as programs or browser extensions that you didn't install. You might also be faced with pop-ups and unwanted alerts or notifications including fake software update notices.

Yes, Apple's macOS operating system hasn't been spared the attention of cybercriminals. However, Macs tend to be targeted less than Microsoft's Windows OS, perhaps due to a more restrictive ecosystem and smaller market share.

While Apple's built-in malware protection is robust, it's still worth downloading additional malware removal software, especially if you are using your Mac for sensitive tasks.

In most cases, yes, but you should only take this step if you have no other option. A factory reset will return your device to its original state, which means losing all your data, including images, videos, and documents. You'll also need to reinstall any software you use, which can be a time-consuming process.

Latest updates

July 2026: In ZDNET's July update, we performed a thorough editorial review and answered more of your frequent questions around malware removal. We also added AVG to our top recommendations.

January 2026: In ZDNET's January update, we completed an in-depth revision of our guide for 2026, including adding recent news, additional FAQs, and additional product information, including new, alternative malware removers such as AVG.

December 2025: In ZDNET's December update, we made extensive editorial and layout changes, including updating and adding additional information on our top picks.

More malware removal software options to consider

Malwarebytes

If adware is bothering you with endless pop-ups and browser hijacking, use this software to deal with it cleanly and quickly.

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Screenshot by Emily Long/ZDNET

Avira's free malware removal software offers on-access, scheduled, and on-demand scans for Windows and macOS users at no cost. It also includes a limited VPN, password manager, and junk cleaner.

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ZoneAlarm

If you want strong protection against modern threats including ransomware, consider ZoneAlarm. This solution is suitable for macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android.

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If you'd like to explore more of our security coverage, check out our guides to the best antivirus software around and the best security keys to enhance your online privacy.

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