What Is The Cheapest, Lightweight, Antivirus Software

If I need to emphasize credentials. I've worked in almost every area of IT for the past 20 years including desktop support, telecom, networking, systems administration, and for the past few years in cyber security supporting a multitude of security tools. Researching, evaluating and deploying said tools is a large portion of my current role. I also have experience in pen testing, malware reverse engineering, software development, application security and vulnerability management.
 
I use Windows for Windows, key factor is how many times does the software update definitions, good firewall protection, Defender does it better. Had payware, not worth the cost. A good browser like DuckDuckGo doesn't spy on you, and I use Glary cleaner, gets rid of the clutter best, in my view. NoRoot free VPN and firewall is great for Android use, with DuckDuckGo.
 
Microsoft Defender works fine for me, even though there are some who are negative about it. In the past, I've used Norton, which seemed to work OK. I've gotten no infections using Defender for a few years, though. I'm tending to agree with those who feel there's no need to pay for an AV program when it's already built into Windows 10, but to each his own.

Toshiba laptop with Windows 10 Pro
 
I use McAfee LifeSafe anti-virus software and Malwarebytes Premium for protection against malware, ransomware, exploit and web. There is no protection software that can do everything.

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