When the IBM PC was new, I served as the president of the San Francisco PC User Group for three years. That’s how I met PCMag’s editorial team, who brought me on board in 1986. In the years since that ...

Keep your computer and other devices safe from viruses and other harmful software with these top-rated antivirus programs.

Firewalls scan data sent to your computer for malware and attempt to block files or other data they deem suspicious. Like ...

Protect your computer with effective antivirus protection and smart computer security strategies to prevent hacking, malware, and viruses for safer online experiences. Pixabay, TheDigitalArtist ...

Discover Avast’s free version. Get full details on its key features, how it protects your device, how to safely install it, ...

5 Antivirus Programs That Actually Hold Up in 2026 Best Antivirus Software That Won’t Slow Down Your Computer Discover the best antivirus programs for computers that keep you protected without slowing ...

As a good PC user, I run security software in Windows to protect my computer from malware that may pop up as I go about my day. But what about malware that tries to launch before Windows even loads?

Mike De Socio is a CNET contributor who writes about energy, personal finance, electric vehicles and climate change. He's also the author of the nonfiction book, "Morally Straight: How the Fight for ...