Antivirus for Windows 11: Free and Paid Options
Windows 11 ships with more built-in security than any previous release: Microsoft Defender, SmartScreen, memory integrity and hardware-backed protections tied to the TPM requirement.
That changes the question from 'which antivirus do I need' to 'is anything missing for me'.
Products covered on this page
Bitdefender Free
A permanently free Windows antivirus from a top-tier detection vendor.
free · Windows
Best free antivirus for Windows 11
Microsoft Defender for zero-effort protection, or Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition if you prefer a third-party engine with a quiet interface. Both are permanent free options, not trials.
Three Windows 11 settings to check now
Core isolation and memory integrity under Device security. Controlled folder access under Ransomware protection. Reputation-based protection with potentially unwanted app blocking under App & browser control. All free, all worth two minutes.
Frequently asked questions
- Does Windows 11 need antivirus?
- Windows 11 already includes antivirus. You only need a third-party product if you want features it does not provide.
- What is the best free antivirus for Windows 11?
- Microsoft Defender if you want nothing installed; Bitdefender Antivirus Free Edition if you want a third-party engine.