As cyber threats evolve, built-in antivirus solutions may fall short in protection. A recent comparison highlights the best free antivirus software for 2025, emphasizing their advanced features like scheduled scans and anti-phishing defenses. Avira Free Antivirus stands out for its comprehensive features including a password manager, while Bitdefender Free Edition offers strong protection with minimal system impact. Microsoft Defender remains a solid, if basic, option for Windows users. These tools prove essential for maintaining cybersecurity without incurring additional costs.