what is the best anti virus for this xomputer

For your laptop, Microsoft Defender Antivirus is a highly recommended option. It is included in all versions of Windows 11 and Windows 10 and provides next-generation protection against malware, viruses, and security threats. Microsoft Defender Antivirus features real-time, behavior-based, and heuristic protection, ensuring comprehensive security for your device. It also automatically updates to keep your system protected from the latest threats.

If you are looking for additional options, consider using up-to-date antivirus software from other reputable companies, but keep in mind that if you install another antivirus application, Microsoft Defender Antivirus will turn off automatically until the other app is uninstalled.

References:

• Virus and threat protection in Windows 11
• Prevent malware infection

Hi Gail, thanks for reaching out. It sounds like you’re looking for the best antivirus for your laptop. The good news is Windows already comes with Microsoft Defender, which provides solid protection for most users. If you’re seeing issues like pop-ups or slow performance, it might mean Defender isn’t updated or another program is conflicting. First, check that Windows Update is current and run a quick scan in Defender. If you prefer extra features like VPN or identity protection, options like Norton 360 or Bitdefender are great choices. Can you tell me if your laptop is running Windows 10 or 11 and whether you’ve noticed any unusual alerts or performance drops?

Best,

Rez

Windows Security comes pre-installed with Windows 11, and that's the best you can have. So you don't third-party AV protection. You can rely on it and continue using it. Make sure you upgrade its update definitions regularly.

The truth is that there is no 'best' antivirus app for Windows. Most antivirus apps - including Microsoft's own Microsoft Defender - are equally effective at what they do to protect your computer. The best app for you is the one that you like best, because you like the interface, or because you like the app's website, or because you like its technical support, or because you like the extra features that come with it.

Don't think that Microsoft Defender is 'best' just because it comes from Microsoft. While nobody knows Windows better than Microsoft, no one knows what an attacker will do any better than anyone else.

Regardless of which antivirus app you choose, it's important not to rely on an app exclusively for protection. Study after study proves that most successful attacks succeeded because they were able to fool the user. So yes, use an antivirus app, but it's more important to keep yourself informed so you don't get tricked.

Best of success to you.