It is essential to safeguard your data from cyber threats, whether you’re using social media or your personal computer to browse the web. Two of the most popular and trusted programs are Avast and Malwarebytes. Both programs are similar, however they each have their own characteristics that make them distinct.

Avast’s free version is a great choice, but it’s only a basic security. It does not monitor malware or ransomware. The premium plans are, however, more inclusive. The most expensive plan offered by the company Premium + Privacy offers a no-log VPN that blocks unauthorized trackers and hides your location and encrypts the connection.

Avast’s malware-detection system is one of its major advantages. In tests conducted by AV-Comparatives the program received an 5.5/6 score. Its heuristic engine and machine learning algorithm are both excellent at identifying new threats. It also blocks more than 1.5 billion attacks every month, which is much higher than the average of its peers.

Malwarebytes might not be the ideal choice for those who want to run an antivirus that provides real-time protection. The program only examines the files on your computer and doesn’t block malware from entering the system from the outside. Luckily, the paid plans include an antivirus and antimalware program, including exploit protection and ransomware.

Both have an intuitive and user-friendly interface, however Avast is more customizable and comprehensive. Its security options and settings are avast service high cpu usage windows 10 more extensive than Malwarebytes and can be somewhat confusing for newbies. Avast provides a range of additional utilities and security features that aren’t offered in Malwarebytes paid tiers.