The PCWorld Guide to Online Security
News, Reviews and How Tos from our security experts
Latest Best Picks for Security Software and Services
Updated
Best VPN services 2024: Top picks for speed, price, privacy, and more
Surfing the web through a virtual private network (VPN) can keep your identity and data safe and secure online. We show you what to look for in a VPN and help you pick the best one for your needs.
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Best antivirus software 2024: Keep your PC safe from malware, spyware, and more
Your Windows PC needs virus protection. Some threats can’t be avoided without the aid of antivirus software. Choose the best antivirus software for you from our top picks.
Best Picks
Best VPNs for torrenting 2024: Speed, privacy, and security matter
Staying safe while torrenting is essential, and using a VPN like any of these top picks is the best way to do it.
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Best VPNs for Android 2024: Our picks for phones and tablets
PCWorld's picks for the best VPNs for Android devices including smartphones and tablets.
Best Picks
Best free VPN of 2024: It's important to choose wisely
VPNs are best when they're paid for, but if a premium account isn't in the cards then here are our top recommendations for a free service.
Best Picks
Best free antivirus 2024: Keep your PC safe without spending a dime
Many of the big names in antivirus offer a free version of their security suites. Here are our top choices for free antivirus.
Best Picks
Best free VPN for Android 2024: Which ones can you trust?
When you need a quick free VPN connection for your Android phone or tablet here are the services we recommend.
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Fastest VPN 2024: We identify the speediest performers
If you have the need, the need for VPN speed, we've got recommendations about the best choices for you.Latest Reviews of Security Software and Services
Reviews
Private Internet Access review: A low-price, high-value VPN for everyone
Private Internet Access is a powerful, low-cost VPN that offers a nice array of features and unlimited device connections.
Reviews
Trend Micro Maximum Security review: Better alternatives exist
Underwhelming features, weak antivirus protection, and potentially showstopping bugs tank Trend Micro Maximum Security's appeal.
Reviews
IPVanish review: A U.S.-based VPN with unlimited connections
IPVanish is a good U.S.-based VPN that promises speed and security and delivers on both.
Reviews
Norton Antivirus Plus review: A slim suite for digital minimalists
Norton Antivirus Plus provides solids basics of online protection without any extra fluff—ideal for those avoiding unnecessary, expensive excess.
Reviews
Avira Prime review: Comprehensive, user-friendly antivirus
Avira Prime is a simple, easy-to-understand antivirus suite that includes numerous features.
Reviews
Avast One review: Well-priced PC security with excellent protection
Avast One defends not just your PC from online threats, but you as well—and does so by going beyond just superb antivirus protection.
Reviews
ESET Home Security Premium review: Simple protection with a complex heart
ESET's antivirus software gives far more control over scan and feature settings than the average rival — a plus for power users — without being intimidating.
Reviews
McAfee+ Ultimate review: Comprehensive security that needs more polish
McAfee+ Ultimate offers strong antivirus protection and a vast array of online protections, but its apps, services, and tools could use more polish.Latest How To articles about Security Software and Services
How-To
Hardening Windows: How to protect your computer against attacks
With these tools, you can significantly reduce the attack surface of Windows and effectively protect it against viruses and hackers.
How-To
Want to safely use Windows 10 after Microsoft ends support? Meet 0Patch
With 0Patch, you can provide Windows 10 with updates beyond October 2025. We show you how it works.
How-To
6 ways hackers sidestep your two-factor authentication
It is considered very secure: logging in with two factors. However, this technology is also vulnerable to security gaps and social engineering. To really protect your accounts, you should be aware of these vulnerabilities.
How-To
You're the best password: How to start using passkeys on Windows PCs
You are the best password, because hackers cannot imitate or steal your physical characteristics. How to protect your PC and important online services with face or finger recognition.
Tip
Phone scammers are using faked AI voices. Here's how to protect yourself
Modern AI tools can clone almost anyone's voice — and they're being used to scam people.
How-To
Has my PC been hacked? 5 ways to detect virus attacks, step-by-step
Your computer was running fine a moment ago, but now applications are stalling and you're inundated with ads. This step-by-step guide will help you identify the type of attack as well as provide the solution.
Tip
There's a sneaky way to make your passwords more secure: emojis 👍
Here's a creative tip that can instantly boost the complexity of your passwords without making them harder to memorize.
How-To
8 big gotchas to watch out for in tech privacy policies
The privacy policies of internet services play an important role for end users. In this article, we'll show you the potential pitfalls and what you should look out for.Latest News about Security Software and Services
News
Discord steps up privacy for users with end-to-end encryption
Breathe a (small) sigh of relief that your audio and video calls are now truly private.
News
Hackers are using full-screen Chrome to steal Google passwords
A devious new attack uses Chrome's Kiosk Mode to force you to input your password, which is then stolen.
News
'PKfail' Secure Boot disaster just went from bad to worse
The Secure Boot vulnerability has been found to reach devices including ATMs, medical devices, and even voting machines.
Feature
These 9 Ring security cam settings will make your home safer
Learn how to fine-tune your Ring camera or video doorbell motion-detection settings, minimize unnecessary notifications, and focus on what matters.
Feature
Here's why you should be using a VPN with your smart TV
Using a VPN with a smart TV unblocks restricted content, keeps your streaming private, and may even speed up your connection.
Feature
Your VPN's 'kill switch': What it is and why it matters
A VPN's kill switch guarantees your data is never exposed while connected and is an essential feature everyone should be using.
News
Microsoft fixes five zero-day vulnerabilities and dozens of other flaws
This month, Microsoft fixed 79 security issues across their products, including five zero-day vulnerabilities.
Feature