What is a Chromebook?

A Chromebook is a notebook that runs Google’s Chrome OS and is designed to be very efficient and straightforward. Chromebooks are typically lightweight and have long battery life, making them ideal for use on the go or for extended periods without a power source. Chromebooks are also known for their ability to work seamlessly with Google apps and services, such as Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Docs.

Why do you need to install antivirus on your Chromebook?

Contrary to popular belief, Chromebooks are not immune to cyber threats, so installing antivirus software on your Chromebook is still essential. While Chromebooks are less vulnerable to traditional viruses and malware than operating systems like Windows, they are still susceptible to other cyber threats, such as phishing attacks and unwanted programs.

Phishing attacks are typical cyber threats involving using fake web pages or emails to trick users into providing personal or sensitive information, such as login credentials or credit card details. On the other hand, unwanted programs are often bundled with legitimate software downloads and can cause system slowdowns or pose security risks by collecting user data without consent.

Furthermore, Chromebooks can access web pages and online services like any other device, making them susceptible to cyber threats. As such, installing an antivirus program on your Chromebook can help protect your device and your personal information from cybercriminals.

What is the best antivirus for Chromebook?

Here are the critical elements of good antivirus software for Chromebook:

1.  Real-time protection: A good antivirus program for Chromebook should offer real-time protection against malware, viruses, and other cyber threats.

2.  Anti-malware protection: This is the core layer of protection that detects and removes malware from your system.

3.  Web protection: It should include web protection features to protect   against phishing attacks and other types of malicious web content.

4.  Email protection: Scan emails and attachments for malicious content.

5.  Firewall protection: A firewall is a network security device that monitors and blocks network traffic based on security rules that have been set.

6.  Good antivirus program should have multiple layers of protection to prevent malware and viruses from infiltrating your system.

7.  User-friendly interface: The program should be easy to use and have a user-friendly interface.

8.  Additional features: Look for antivirus programs that offer additional features, such as a password manager, app lock, or a built-in VPN for added security and convenience.

9.  Fast and efficient: The program should perform virus scans and system checks without slowing down your Chromebook.

10. Affordable pricing: The antivirus program should be reasonably priced and offer flexible payment options, such as annual or monthly subscriptions.

A good antivirus program for Chromebook should provide real-time protection, web protection, multiple layers of protection, a user-friendly interface, additional features, fast and efficient performance, and affordable pricing.

Using these features as a guide, you should be able to find a reputable Antivirus software for Chromebook that can protect your computer network from various malware, computer viruses, ransomware, spyware, and phishing while also ensuring the security of confidential data.

Based on the abovementioned criteria, my top four selections are Avast, Avira, AVG, and Kaspersky.

I chose and handpicked the six Antivirus Software Solutions listed below:

• Avast Antivirus: Best Overall
• Avira Antivirus: Most Affordable
• AVG Antivirus: Best in Proactive Protection
• Kaspersky Security: Most Comprehensive Anti-Malware Protection
• Bitdefender Antivirus: Best in Low Resource Usage
• Malwarebytes Security: Best in Multi-device Support

Comparison:

1. Avast Antivirus

Best Overall

Imajinazion’s Take:

Avast is an all-in-one security solution that offers real-time antivirus, anti-malware, VPN, and password management capabilities for Chromebook users.

The program is a powerful and comprehensive antivirus software that offers robust protection for multiple devices against various cyber threats. It provides a range of features, making it a top choice for reliable protection.

Rating:

Key Features:

1.  Antivirus Protection: The software offers real-time protection against malware, spyware, and ransomware. It also includes a malware scanner that detects and removes malware from your system.

2.  VPN: The application contains a built-in VPN that encrypts your internet traffic and masks your IP address, giving you further protection and privacy when browsing the web.

3.  Password Manager: The platform also includes a password manager, which securely stores your login credentials and autofills them when you visit your favorite websites.

4.  Web Protection: Avast provides web protection that blocks access to malicious websites and phishing scams.

5.  Advanced Firewall: Prevent hackers from accessing your computer

6.  Email Security: Scan emails for dangerous attachments and remove those with malicious links.

7.  Online Banking protection: Automatically turn on VPN secure connection when visiting a banking website

8.   Software Updater: Keep all your apps updated with a few clicks.

9.   PC Optimizer: The program optimizes the background activities of your apps so they stop being a drain on the PC when they are not in use.

10. App Lock: Avast also includes an app lock feature that allows you to lock specific apps with a PIN, preventing unauthorized access to your data.

Plan & Pricing:

What do I like/Dislike about Avast Antivirus?

Like:

1.  Offers multiple layers of protection, including antivirus, anti-malware, VPN, password manager, firewall, email security, and web protection.

2.  User-friendly interface that is easy to navigate.

3.  Offers a free version with limited features.

4.  Provides excellent malware protection.

5.  It provides a 30-day money-back guarantee

6.  The software has a 24/7 customer support

7.  The application has outstanding Detection and Protection Rates: Offline Detection Rate: 94.2%; Online Detection Rate: 99.5%; Online Protection Rate: 99.98% (Ref. AV-Comparative Report, Mar. 2022)

8.  Avast antivirus has over 100 million installs in Google Play.

Dislike:

1. The free version does not include all features.

2. Requires a paid subscription for full access to all features.

3. Some users may not like the pop-up notifications.

Avast Antivirus is an excellent antivirus solution for Chromebook users. It offers comprehensive protection against cyber threats, including malware, spyware, and phishing scams. The software also includes several valuable features, such as a password manager, app lock, and built-in VPN that can help protect your online privacy.

2. Avira Security Antivirus

Most Affordable

Imajinazion’s Take: 

The software is a premium all-in-one security that offers a comprehensive range of security features, including antivirus protection, system optimization, privacy protection, and identity theft prevention.

The program provides real-time protection against all types of malware, including viruses, Trojans, worms, and spyware. It has advanced anti-ransomware technology, preventing unauthorized access and personal data encryption.

The program has a range of optimization tools that can help improve system performance. This includes a junk file cleaner, a registry cleaner, and a startup optimizer.

Avira Security Antivirus is a comprehensive security suite offering a range of advanced features to protect users from various online threats.

Rating:

Key Features:

1.  Real-Time Protection: The program protects against viruses, malware, ransomware, and other online threats in real-time.

2.  Multiple Layers of Protection: The platform uses multiple layers of protection, such as a firewall and advanced malware scanner, to keep your devices safe.

3.  Built-in VPN: The application includes a VPN that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address.

4.  Password Manager: The software has a password manager that securely stores your login credentials and helps you create strong passwords.

5.  Browser Extension: Avira Antivirus has a browser extension that blocks ads, tracking cookies, and phishing scams to keep you safe while browsing the web.

6.  App Lock: The tool allows you to lock specific apps with a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint, providing an additional layer of security for sensitive apps.

7.  Performance Optimization: The program includes tools that help optimize your device’s performance by cleaning up junk files, removing unnecessary apps, and managing startup programs. 

Avira Antivirus offers comprehensive features to protect your devices and online privacy.

Plan & Pricin

What do I Like/Dislike about Avira Security Antivirus?

Like:

1.  Excellent protection against malware and other cyber threats.

2.  Additional features include a password manager, a VPN, and a system optimizer.

3.  The software is easy to use, and its user interface is intuitive and well-designed.

4.  It does not affect system performance, enabling you to work or play uninterrupted

5.  It offers a 60-day money-back guarantee.

6.  The antivirus has good Detection and Protection Rates: Offline detection rate: 96%; Online detection rate: 98.7%; Online protection rate: 99.96%. (Ref: AV-Comparative Report, March 2022)

7.  More than 10 million have downloaded the Google Play app.

Dislike:

1.  Limited features in the free version:

2.  Some users have reported that Avira’s customer support can be slow to respond and may not be able to resolve issues quickly.

3. AVG Antivirus

Best in Multi-layered Protection

Imajinazion’s Take:

AVG Antivirus is a comprehensive security suite that offers real-time protection for Windows, ChromeOS, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. It provides a range of security features, such as antivirus and malware protection, web protection, ransomware protection, and a firewall. It also includes optimization features such as system cleanup, performance optimization, and automatic updates.

In addition to security features, the program includes tools to help optimize your device’s performance. AVG TuneUp helps to speed up your device by cleaning up unnecessary files and optimizing system settings. It also includes a software updater to ensure all your software is up-to-date.

Rating:

Key Features: 

1.  Antivirus and malware protection: The program protects against viruses, malware, spyware, and other internet dangers in real-time.

2.  Web protection: The software protects you from harmful websites and downloads by scanning web pages and files for threats before downloading them.

3.  Ransomware protection: The platform helps protect your files and documents from ransomware attacks by blocking unauthorized access to your files.

4.  Firewall: The application includes a firewall that monitors network traffic and helps protect your computer from unauthorized access.

5.  Performance optimization: The software optimizes your computer’s performance by cleaning up unnecessary files, removing junk data, and optimizing system settings.

6.  Automatic updates: The program ensures that all your software is up-to-date with automatic updates.

7.  Email protection: The platform includes anti-spam filters and email protection to help protect you from phishing scams and other email-based threats.

8.  Mobile protection: The software offers protection for Android and iOS devices, including antivirus and malware protection, app locking, and a camera trap feature.

AVG Antivirus offers a comprehensive set of features to help protect your devices and optimize their performance.

Plan & Pricing:

What do I like about AVG Antivirus?

Like:

1.  The program offers complete protection for all your devices, including PCs, Macs, and mobile devices.

2.  The platform includes a number of other features, such as a firewall, VPN, and system optimizer.

3.  The application has an intuitive and easy-to-use interface that makes navigating simple.

4.  The software has multiple layers of protection.

5.  AVG antivirus has excellent Detection and Protection Rates: Offline detection rate: 94.2%; Online detection rate: 99.5%; Online protection rate: 99.98% (Ref: AV-Comparative Report, March 2022)

6.  The program offers a Free trial (no credit card needed).

7.  The platform provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.

8.  Over 100 million have been installed in Google Play.

Dislike:

1.  Some users have reported that the software can slow down their system, particularly during scans and updates.

2.  Limited VPN functionality

3.  Pop-up ads

4.  No Password Manager

AVG Antivirus is a good option for those seeking a comprehensive security suite with additional optimization features. It is easy to use and offers high protection for your devices.

4. Kaspersky Security

Best in Proactive Protection

Imajinazion’s Take:

The antivirus software is a comprehensive security suite designed to protect devices from various cyber threats, including viruses, malware, spyware, phishing, and ransomware attacks. It is an advanced security solution that provides robust protection for multiple devices, including desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets.

The program has several advanced security features that safeguard user data and privacy, including real-time protection, anti-phishing, anti-spyware, anti-malware, and anti-ransomware. The application also has a built-in VPN that helps users secure their online activity.

The program also includes a password manager, allowing users to securely store and manage their login credentials and other sensitive information.

Rating:

Key Features:

1.  Advanced malware protection: The software offers advanced malware protection to detect and remove viruses, spyware, and other malware.

2.  Real-time protection: The program provides real-time protection to prevent any malware or viruses from infecting your system.

3.  Web protection: The platform blocks access to malicious websites and protects you from phishing scams.

4.  Password manager: The software has a built-in password manager that securely stores all your passwords and personal information.

5.  Virtual Private Network (VPN): The software includes a VPN that protects your privacy and secures your internet connection.

6.  Safe money: The program offers a secure payment feature that ensures safe online transactions.

7.  File shredder: The software has a file shredder that securely deletes sensitive data and ensures it cannot be recovered.

8.  Backup and restore: The platform includes backup and restore features that allow you to backup your important files and restore them if needed.

9.  Anti-theft: The antivirus has anti-theft features that allow you to locate, lock, and wipe your device in case of theft or unauthorized access.

10. System tune-up: The program provides a system tune-up feature that optimizes your system’s performance and cleans up junk files.

11. Gaming mode: The software offers a gaming mode that optimizes your system’s performance while playing games.

Plan & Pricing:

What do I Like/Dislike about Kaspersky Security? 

Like:

1.  Excellent malware detection rates and real-time protection against viruses, ransomware, and other cyber threats.

2.  The software includes features such as a network attack blocker, anti-spam, and anti-phishing protection to help safeguard against a range of threats.

3.  It has advanced security features, such as webcam protection, password management, and a virtual keyboard to help protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access.

4.  Easy-to-use interface

5.  The software offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

6.  It has a good Online Detection Rate: Online detection rate: 95.4%; Online protection rate: 99.98% (Ref: AV-Comparative Report, March 2022)

7.  Over 100 million users have downloaded Kaspersky Security in Google Play.

Dislike:

1. Customer support can be slow to respond sometime.

2. Resource-intensive

3. Low Offline Detection Rate: 78%

5. Bitdefender Antivirus

Best in Low Resource Usage

Imajinazion’s Take:

The program offers advanced protection against various cyber threats such as malware, viruses, phishing attacks, and ransomware. The software uses behavioural threat detection to prevent infections and protects your most sensitive documents from unauthorized access.

The platform has various features, such as a firewall, parental controls, file encryption, and anti-tracker.

Rating:

Key Features:

1.  Antivirus Protection: The program protects against all sorts of malware in real-time, including viruses, trojans, spyware, and ransomware.

2.  Advanced Threat Defense: This feature uses behavioral detection technology to monitor active applications and detect suspicious behavior.

3.  Firewall: The built-in firewall protects your computer from unauthorized access and blocks incoming attacks.

4.  VPN: The program includes a built-in VPN that encrypts your online activity and protects your privacy while browsing the internet.

5.  Parental Control: The parental control feature allows you to block inappropriate content and monitor your child’s online activity.

6.  Safe Files: This feature protects your important files and documents by preventing unauthorized changes and encrypting them.

7.  Anti-Phishing and Anti-Fraud: This feature protects you from phishing scams and online fraud by detecting and blocking fake websites and emails.

8.  Vulnerability Assessment: The vulnerability assessment feature checks your system for security weaknesses and suggests ways to fix them.

9.  Optimized Performance: The application is designed to work efficiently and not slow down your computer.

What do I Like/Dislike about Bitdefender Antivirus? 

Like:

1.  Excellent malware protection

2.  Multi-layered ransomware protection

3.  Easy to use: The program offers a straightforward and user-friendly design that makes it simple even for novices.

4.  System optimization: Bitdefender Total Security comes with system optimization tools that can help improve the performance of your device.

5.  The program provides a 60-day money-back guarantee

6.  The app has been downloaded over 5 million times in Google Play store.

7.  The antivirus has satisfactory Detection and Protection Rates: Offline detection rate: 97.8%; Online detection rate: 97.8%; Online protection rate: 99.99%. (Ref: AV-Comparative Report, March 2022)

Dislike:

1. Limited customization

2. Limited VPN functionality

Bitdefender Antivirus is an all-in-one solution that completely protects against various cyber threats.

6. Malwarebytes Security

Best in Multi-Device Support

Imajinazion’s Take:

Malwarebytes is known for its robust malware detection and removal capabilities, while the VPN service provides encryption and anonymity when browsing the internet.

It offers protection against various threats, including malware, ransomware, spyware, and phishing attacks. In addition, the VPN service protects your online activity from prying eyes, such as your ISP and potential hackers.

Rating:

Key Features:

1.  Malware Protection: The program is well-known for its advanced malware detection and removal capabilities, which help to keep your device secure from viruses, Trojans, spyware, adware, and other malware threats.

2.  VPN Protection: The bundled VPN (Virtual Private Network) connection to the internet is encrypted, which helps to protect your online privacy by hiding your IP address and encrypting your data.

3.  Ad-Blocking: The software includes an ad-blocking feature, which helps reduce the number of ads you see while browsing the web, thus reducing the risk of malware infections.

4.  Multi-Device Support: The software can be installed on multiple devices, including Windows, ChromeOS, Mac, Android, and iOS devices.

5.  Easy to Use: The program is designed to be easy to use, with a simple and intuitive interface that allows you to access all the features quickly.

What do I Like/Dislike about Malwarebytes Security?

Like:

1. Advanced malware detection and removal

2. Easy-to-use VPN:

3. Multiple device support

4. Fast and reliable

5. It provides a 60-day money-back guarantee

Dislike:

1. No dedicated IP addresses

2. Limited customer support

3. No Password Manager

Malwarebytes provides comprehensive malware and VPN protection in an easy-to-use and affordable package.

Is a paid antivirus better than a free antivirus software?

Paid antivirus software often provides higher protection and more advanced features than free antivirus software. For example, commercial antivirus typically includes real-time scanning and protection, continuously monitoring your device for potential threats.

Commercial antivirus programs may offer additional security features, such as firewalls, anti-spam filters, built-in VPN, identity protection, anti-tracker, Password Manager, Email security, PC optimizer, and phishing protection can help protect you from a broader range of online threats.

Another advantage of the paid application is customer support. When you purchase a premium antivirus, you frequently have access to specialized customer support teams that can assist you in resolving any difficulties or answering any concerns.

Furthermore, commercial antivirus solutions are frequently updated and upgraded, which can help ensure that your device is always protected against the latest threats.

While free antivirus software can provide essential protection, a paid antivirus is often worth the investment for those who want higher security and peace of mind. 

How to Install an Antivirus on Chromebook

Chromebooks are designed to be simple and easy to use, including installing antivirus software. Here are two ways to install an antivirus on your Chromebook:

a. How to Install an Antivirus on Chromebook via Google Play

One way to install an antivirus on your Chromebook is through the Google Play Store. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Chromebook.

2. Search for the antivirus software you want to install.

3. Click on the “Install” button.

4. Follow the prompts to complete the installation.

Note that not all antivirus software is available on the Google Play Store, so you may need to use a different method to install your chosen software.

b. How to Install Chrome Extension via the Chrome Web Store

Another way to install antivirus software on your Chromebook is through a Chrome extension. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Chrome Web Store on your Chromebook.

2. Search for the antivirus software you want to install.

3. Click on the “Add to Chrome” button.

4. Follow the prompts to complete the installation.

Again, not all antivirus software is available as a Chrome extension, so you may need to use a different method to install your chosen software. It’s also important to note that Chrome extensions can only provide limited protection compared to full antivirus software. Therefore, installing full-fledged antivirus software on your Chromebook is recommended to ensure maximum security.

Final Thoughts:

Chromebooks may be considered more secure than other types of computers due to their unique architecture and built-in security features. However, installing antivirus software to add an extra layer of protection against online threats is still important. Several antivirus choices are available for Chromebook users, each with its own features, benefits, and drawbacks. When choosing an antivirus, consider its level of protection, ease of use, and compatibility with your Chromebook. You can install an antivirus on your Chromebook and protect yourself from any attacks by following the procedures given in this article.

FAQ:

1. Can Chromebooks get viruses? 

Chromebooks can get viruses or malware, although it is less common than other operating systems.

2. Do I need antivirus software on my Chromebook? 

It is recommended to have antivirus software installed on your Chromebook to protect against potential threats and keep your device secure.

3. Can I use the same antivirus software on my Chromebook that I use on my Windows PC? No, antivirus software designed for Windows is not compatible with Chrome OS. You will need to use antivirus software specifically designed for Chromebooks.

4. Can I use free antivirus software on my Chromebook? 

Several free antivirus options are available for Chromebooks, although they may have limited features compared to paid versions.

5. How often should I run a virus scan on my Chromebook? 

Running a virus scan at least once a week is recommended to protect your device and detect potential threats.

6. Can antivirus software slow down my Chromebook? 

While antivirus software may use some system resources, it should not significantly slow down your Chromebook’s performance.

7. Can antivirus software protect me from phishing attacks? 

Many antivirus software programs include anti-phishing protection to help detect and block fraudulent websites and emails.

8. How do I know if my Chromebook’s antivirus software is working correctly? 

Regularly update your antivirus software and run scans to detect any potential threats. You can also check the software’s settings to ensure it is appropriately configured and protecting your device.