1.      More protection: Paid antivirus software tends to provide much more attentive care to your device as it is given access to larger malware databases as well as better algorithms that it can use to detect malware and malicious software on your device. In addition to this they can provide additional tools such as more advanced real time protection and automatic updating.

2.      Support: Whereas with free antivirus software where you tend to have to rely on online community forums and self-help resources, paid antivirus typically gives you access to a customer service allowing you to contact them with any issues you may be having with your antivirus software. This is regardless of whether you need help with installation, configuration, or troubleshooting. They can help you get going and with maintaining your device security.

3.      Additional tools: One of our favourite aspects of paid antivirus software is the array of tools that tend to come as a package with the antivirus. These tools can include things such as password management, email scanning, firewall protection and a VPN service. These tools can help in many aspects. The main aspect being that with all tools in one place, it means that your device doesn’t have to worry about multiple applications running and you don’t have to worry about paying for multiple separate services. A VPN service also means that you can browse the internet with more security and privacy.

4.      Up to date: While most free and paid antivirus providers try and keep their software up to date, a paid service will generally make sure that your antivirus is as up to date as possible to make sure that your device is equipped with the latest virus definitions and security patches and features.

5.      Multiple devices: Our final point focuses on people with multiple devices. A lot of users tend to use both a computer/laptop and a smartphone. A lot of paid antivirus services allow you to use one license across multiple different devices such as a laptop, phone and tablet. This is ideal if you want to keep all your devices safe and secure from viruses and malware.

Whilst free antivirus programs can maintain a basic level of device security, a paid service is able to offer you more security, more features as well as dedicated support. Of course, not all antivirus products are the same and you should do some research before choosing the right one for your needs but we hope we have given you something to think about when considering your device security.