Panda Security is a relatively new antivirus software having initially been released in 2009, yet only having a stable release since February of 2016. In the past, Panda Security offered both a free and paid version, however, the free version has been cut out. Panda Security is considered a cloud-based security system because the files are scanned on a remote server without using processing power from the recipient’s computer or mobile device.

Pros

• License works on a variety of devices including Windows, Mac, and mobile devices
• Added ransomware protection is a nice feature and helps increase value
• Parental controls ideal for families that need to monitor children usage and app restriction

Cons

• Has not performed outstanding in some independent lab tests
• Slightly more expensive than its competitors, though variety of plans delivers some flexibility

Panda Security Protects You From…

Panda Security is an efficient antivirus software platform that works on all mobile devices, and according to their official website has performed especially well on Windows devices with a 100 percent virus detection rate.

Regardless of the antivirus package you select (more information, below), the subscription includes firewall protection.
Panda Security also provides added security for your home WiFi network. It is designed to prevent hackers as well as prying neighbors away from your sacred WiFi network. Parental controls are also enabled to help manage your children’s Internet use and access to apps.

Protecting your identity online is extremely vital these days, and Panda Security does an adequate job by offering identity protection while browsing, shopping as well as banking online. It is very important to protect personal information and credit card numbers, and Panda Security does it best to ward off attackers.

In addition to protecting online identities, Panda Security also features security measures for ransomware and other advanced threats protection. A data shield is enabled in order to encrypt confidential data from predators.

The provided Password Manager also helps secure and manage all online passwords with the click of a button. The premium unlimited VPN (provided with Panda Security Premium plan), allows users to remain anonymous while browsing from many virtual locations worldwide.

It is possible to scan external USB devices when you insert them into a computer or laptop, as well as keep USB devices safe from any kind of threats while plugged into the device.

Devices/Operating Systems Panda Security Supports

Panda Security is operational on most Windows, Android and macOS devices. The variety in coverage makes the antivirus platform suitable for a variety of users. Panda Security also touts itself as being suitable for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets as well.

If any questions arise, 24/7 support from Panda Security is only available through the Premium plan. However, an 1-800 number is available for all other inquires.

Installation & Performance

Panda Security offers good but not great installation. It’s your basic installation process, where most can understand how to install the software though a few who rarely use a computer may have issues.

The antivirus software operates in real time. What this means is because the antivirus is cloud-based, the information on your computer is constantly scanned remotely through a server without needing to use processing power from the actual device. It’s a cool concept that helps avoid unwanted interruptions or lags.

When you combine that with the Cleanup Tool (designed to speed up and improve device performance), Panda Security should increase performance, not inhibit it.

Price

Panda Security presents four different tiers of antivirus software.

The most affordable, the Essential plan, provides antivirus protection for one year at $47. The Essential plan only supports one device yet provides the necessary protection to browse the web safely as well as back your home WiFi network.

The Advanced ($59 per year) and Complete ($95 per year) also provide protection for only one device yet it is possible to upgrade for a minimal charge to cover more computers or mobile devices in your home. Advanced is designed to add safeguards when it comes to shopping and banking online. Meanwhile, the Complete plan also blocks threats from ransomware and also backups data.

Lastly, the Premium plan ($155 per year) is the ultimate antivirus package and also included a premium VPN with the subscription.

Conclusion

Panda Security is more expensive than a lot of its competitors and hasn’t performed exceptionally well in a lot of independent tests. That’s troubling, because you would expect higher quality protection if you are going to spend more. While the remote, cloud-based scanning is a great feature for not slowing down performance, Panda Security could come down on its prices a little.