Google has done a great job of have Chrome OS lightweight , yet still secure against vulgar computer viruses , which is one reason it ’s a democratic option at school . However , if you have a Chromebook , it can still be vulnerable to sure malware tone-beginning or computer virus - laden downloads , so surety is important .
If you ’re looking for the safest experience , you should add antivirus software to your Chromebook . Fortunately , we have many , many hours of experience with testing both Chromebooks and antivirus apps , so we ’re well - positioned to make several top recommendation when you ’re looking for software .
Many of these pick are also substantial pick if you needantivirus software for your Macor just want a quickfree antivirus for introductory protection .
Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes offers a consecrated app for Android security measure with a version specifically customized to forge on Chromebooks — include an excellent free download that sports a fresh deficiency of ads . The free interlingual rendition bunk a privateness audited account for every app on Chrome oxygen and gives you a report so that you could figure out which apps are tracking you , monitor your activity , or burden you fees .
The software can also run search for any embedded adware or malware that may have found its way onto your Chromebook without notice and helps you remove them . That include not only malicious computer software but also annoyances like bloatware that can slow down Chrome ’s lean operating system . If you require to upgrade to the premium version , you also get browser app monitoring and ransomware detection .
If you want to upgrade to a paid plan , you also get phishing and ransomware tribute along with advertizement block . Personal design start at just $ 3.75 per calendar month .
Kaspersky
Those who want one of the most comprehensive security solution around will value the many features that Kaspersky offers , including a constant background scan for possible computer virus and an excellent spyware sensing element to alert you about apps that may be tracking your natural process . While many of the prick are project with Android phones in judgment , they also ferment well on Chromebooks , and sealed features are peculiarly useful — such as the power to remotely locate , lock , or wipe your Chromebook if you accidentally impart it behind somewhere .
If anything , Kaspersky may have too many features for those front for something simpler , but drug user who want the broadest protection will find plenty to wish , specially if they also have an Android phone that needs protection ( Kaspersky offers junk e-mail call filters in increase to other security benefits ) . You will need to make up for this app , but prices are currently around $ 12 for a twelvemonth ’s subscription .
you’re able to protect up to three devices for $ 35 per year or look at premium plan that cover more devices and occur with additional feature like a data leak chequer and personal identity protection .
ESET Security
ESET ’s app is an ideal choice if you ’re look for something with a faint footprint that offer introductory surety without threatening any of your Chromebook ’s precious RAM . The app offers easy - to - use tools in the free version , which include antivirus scanning , security reports , and action log . There ’s no fluff , just a couple of big buttons to iron .
However , we also indicate convey a flavor atChrome Cleanup , an ESET propagation that monitors browsing and alarm users when it looks like they ’ve stumbled across malware or spyware that they really do n’t want . It hail with a removal option to quickly delete any unexpected downloads that may ensue .
If you want to bundle your devices , you could look at ESET ’s pay plans start up at $ 42 each year for three devices . If you ’re looking for a password coach , encryption , and identity protection , ESET offer additional plan .
Avira
Avira has several dissimilar security measure solutions that all make splendid options for your Chromebook . The first is the primary app , a combination of antivirus scanning and a VPN to avail with security . There ’s also a suite of other tool you may use , include the ability to lock up specific apps , skim your Wi - Fi mesh , optimize your Chromebook ’s retentiveness , and more .
Are you look for something a small simple ? You may be interested inAvira browser app Safety , an extension that specifically looks at browsing natural process , block malicious sites , and detects things like tracking , phishing endeavour , and funny downloads . Or you could go with the more or less differentAvira Safe Shopping , which also protects your browse but adds in robotlike deal tracking for point you want to grease one’s palms .
you’re able to also look at Avira Prime for bundling your computer and mobile machine . Plans depart at $ 60 yearly for five devices and offer malware detection , encrypted browsing , and a password author .
Bitdefender
Bitdefender ’s free antivirus app works great on Android , and all the same tool are equally compatible on Chromebook , allowing you to apace glance over your laptop computer on need . The software ’s innovation allow you to stick with the basics or expand into new features as you want , and it ’s made for easy setup that can save fourth dimension when downloading .
The free interlingual rendition will scan any newfangled apps that you add to watch for virus and other problems . Plus , it primarily runs from the cloud , so it wo n’t take up much redundant space or other resource on your Chromebook . If you also have Android equipment or other computers with Bitdefender protection , you may useBitdefender Centralas a central app to negociate protection on all your gimmick or even comprise the BOX chic home hub to protect your at - home Wi - Fi internet .
Bitdefender offer many all - in - one , gimmick security , and indistinguishability tribute be after that range in terms bet on your equipment and needs . So , if you enjoy the antivirus religious service , train out Bitdefender ’s extra solvent .
FAQs
Do you need antivirus on a Chromebook?
You ’ll hear different persuasion on whether or not a Chromebook involve antivirus shelter . view the built - in ChromeOS security measure lineament and that Chromebooks are n’t as ordinarily used as other systems , you are less of a target .
For full contingent on this topic , look at our article on if you should getantivirus software for a Chromebook .
How do I check my Chromebook for viruses?
If you install an antivirus tool on your Chromebook , use its scan characteristic to look for viruses . The accurate features , process , and how the tool shape bet on the app you select . But most antivirus tool offer a scan of your files and system as part of the basic feature band .
How do I make my Chromebook more secure?
There are always thing you could do and forethought you could take to last out good online . Be conservative of the Chrome internet browser extensions you install , websites you visit , and permission you grant when downloading apps from Google Play .
