Bitdefender was launched in 2001, and within the past couple of decades has gained a cult following. The antivirus software routinely scores very high in independent studies yet rarely gets the recognition of more popular security platforms such as Norton, Panda Security, McAfee and Kaspersky. Bitdefender currently has over 500 million users worldwide, and is a PCMag Editors’ Choice for six years running. It is based out of Romania.

Pros

• Performed very well in independent lab tests related to malware and other security threat detection
• Multi layer ransomware defense is one of the best protections in the industry for new kind of cyber attack
• Complete parental controls ideal for families who want to protect kids from being compromised

Cons

• Unlimited VPN access requires separate subscription
• iOS version of parental control not nearly as functional as other operating systems

Bitdefender Protects You From…

Bitdefender likes to note that it has featured the top malware detection rate in the industry for the past five years. It is largely thanks to the artificial intelligence of Bitdefender that provides some revolutionary methods for flagging potential threats.

Bitdefender uses a proactive model to anticipate, detect and immediately block cyber attacks, from malware to ransomware, spyware and phishing.

It is largely thanks to the much applauded multi-layer ransomware protection. The advanced program notifies you of any attack and has helped several customers avoid losing costly money or files to ransomware attacks.

Unique to Bitdefender, the antivirus software also enables defenses for your webcam. It means that even the camera on your PC or laptop is protected from any intrusion of privacy.

Bitdefender also assumes most of the legwork. Your involvement is limited, as Bitdefender automatically updates. The automatic updates are designed to provide the latest defenses against cyber attacks without requiring any effort from you.

Bitdefender does feature VPN for anonymous web browsing, however, you will have to pay an additional $40 for the year, even with their most expensive plan (more information, below). The VPN is a really great feature though as it not only allows users to remain anonymous, but also secures Wi-Fi hotspots and features unlimited encrypted traffic.

Devices/Operating Systems Bitdefender Supports

Bitdefender is primarily designed for Windows operating systems though it also is compatible with Mac OS and Android devices.

For Windows, Bitdefender works on Windows 7, 8 and 10. It requires a dual core 1.6 GHz processor or higher. Also, 1 GB of RAM and 2 GB of free space on the hard drive.

Bitdefender offers a very informative and accessible customer support team. Customer service reps are available through a number of channels including phone, email and live chat. Response times are generally very good, regardless of what avenue you decide to contact support.

The antivirus software provider also features an active forum where you can ask other Bitdefender users about any questions or concerns that may arise. All customer support is available 24/7.

Installation & Performance

Bitdefender features a very straightforward and easy to understand install process. It takes little time and can get you up and running in no time flat.

Performance of the PC does not suffer while a scan is in progress. It means that you can still surf the web, watch video, stream music, or do other activities without much, if any, impact on the speed and performance of the PC. System slowdowns just do not occur with Bitdefender.

Price

For 2019, Bitdefender presents consumers with three different options for antivirus software. The most affordable plan is the Bitdefender Antivirus Plus. It retails at $60 per year for up to three devices and provides basic protection for Windows PCs. Customers may add VPN Premium for an additional $50.

Do you have other devices beside a PC? The Bitdefender Total Security plan is the best option for you. It supports up to 5 devices for one year and can be any combination of PC, Mac, iOS or Android devices. It retails at $90 per year and also features the VPN Premium upgrade (for an additional price).

The premium security suite offered through Bitdefender is Internet Security which features advanced protection for Windows PCs. It includes online security banking and all of the aforementioned features. The plan retails at $80 pear year for up to three devices.

Conclusion

Bitdefender is a quality antivirus software provider. Since the turn of the century, Bitdefender has provided a competitive computer security alternative to some of the more well known antivirus software companies on the market. The list of features and security tools is outstanding, we just wish you didn’t have to spend so much more to get unlimited VPN access.