All Internet users need to have antivirus software programs installed on their devices in order to prevent all cyber attacks. If you don't have an antivirus software, all your devices and systems are vulnerable to malware threats, viruses, hacking attacks, data breaches, etc.

Hackers can easily steal users’ personal information, files, credit card details, and other confidential data. Without an antivirus program, you actually allow third parties to track your online activities and collect your data without your knowledge.

There are plenty of antivirus software programs on the market, including free and paid. Some users don’t want to pay for antivirus software so they choose the free options. On the other hand, there are users that don’t like to reinstall the software when the free trial is over so they decide to buy. What’s the difference? Even though both antiviruses can be effective, the free options can be used for a limited time only. Either way, your device must be protected at all costs.

However, the sad reality is that what you give is what you get. So, there are some disadvantages when choosing a free antivirus software programs, which include:

• The free versions have a limited number of functions.
• The main focus of the free versions is to deal with problems that have already happened before instead of preventing them.
• The software providers have to make money which means that you will constantly see annoying pop-up ads.
• Free versions don’t offer quality customer service.

Why should you spend money on an antivirus software program

There are many reasons for why you should spend money on an antivirus software program. The most common reasons include:

• Increased protection which means it will protect your device and data from all online threats
• Paid products prevent threats and attacks from happening in the first place, unlike free antivirus
• Paid versions offer a lot of extra features such as parental control options
• It will update automatically so it will be able to detect emerging cyber threats
• There are no annoying pop-up ads
• You will receive high quality customer service.

To sum up, a free antivirus program can offer some detection rates with scanning and a browsing protection. However, there are in-app purchases in these versions which indicates that even vendors think a paid version provides more security and protection.
So, if you want to protect your personal data, banking details, or your children’s web navigation, you will have to get the paid option.